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Forestry Focus

Emerald Ash Borer Beetle

Emerald Ash Borer Beetle:

It’s On The Way!

The Emerald Ash Borer Beetle (EAB) has already been found in 36 states in the US. Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota to name a few. It has been devastating to the Ash tree populations in all states and it has been located in Dilworth, MN last November which places it within a 15-mile distance of our West Fargo community. West Fargo has many Ash trees in the neighborhoods and Parks north of Interstate 94. Our boulevards and Sheyenne River corridor are made up of 80% or more of Green Ash trees. Now is the time to prepare a plan for the treatment or removal of Ash trees.

As we prepare for the arrival of the Ash Borer Beetle, here are some things to think about:

1

Can Ash trees be treated with insecticide for EAB?

Yes. It is feasible to treat an ash tree before it shows more than 50% decline. Local tree professionals have the equipment and methods for treating trees. It would take many injections every two years to equal the cost of removing the tree.

2

What makes infested ash trees so dangerous?

The structural integrity of the tree becomes compromised when the tree is infested as the wood begins to dry, increasing the risk of branch or trunk breakage. The tree will become unpredictable and the chance of damage to property increases as the decline increases. It is more expensive to remove a dead or declining tree as it poses more of a threat to the safety of pedestrians, tree professionals, and property.

3

Get the jump on EAB.

The goal of the West Fargo Forestry is to start removing Ash Trees strategically in areas where they could become unpredictable. Playgrounds, ballfields, and walking trails. Plans to have Ash Trees removed and replaced, or treated with insecticide will be initiated this spring and ongoing as we hope to spread out a problem over time rather than all at once.

4

How to proceed to preserve and recover our tree population?

Diversity with trees is the answer. Plant many different varieties to prevent mass infestations like we saw in the past with Dutch Elm and Ash trees. Tree species have come a long way through trials and studies with new varieties having resistance to pests, salt tolerance (boulevard plantings), and soil and drought tolerance.

We have the advantage in our area as we have already witnessed EAB move through and decimate other communities. Getting a head start on a plan is the best plan. Homeowners will need to make some decisions on whether to treat or remove green or black ash trees on their property. Check with your local tree professionals to help answer any questions about your ash trees or Emerald Ash Borer beetle. And remember not to transfer or relocate firewood across state lines as larvae can live in the bark and get a free ride to their next destination.