Emerald Ash Borer is in NC!
The Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive beetle that causes major harm. It is now in North Carolina.
Originally from Asia, the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive metallic green beetle that causes major harm to ash trees.
This beetle was first discovered in Michigan in 2002 and likely made its entrance into the US via wooden crates holding products from Asia.
Since 2002, EAB has spread to 20 states and killed tens of millions of trees throughout the US. Yes, you read that right – tens of millions of trees are gone because of Emerald Ash Borers. This pest feeds on the transportation tissue of ash trees, which causes death by preventing the ash tree from absorbing water and nutrients. Unfortunately, EAB has no natural predators here in the US.
Recently Emerald Ash Borers were spotted in various counties in North Carolina. As such, North Carolina’s four species of ash trees (Green Ash, Pumpkin Ash, White Ash, Carolina Ash) are now officially at risk.
The good news is that it is possible to save your ash trees.
There are several highly effective treatments for EAB, including Emamectin Benzoate applied directly into the trunk of the tree.
It can be applied after the pest has attacked, but it is most effective when applied before an attack. There are also effective bark and canopy spray options, which are less invasive to the tree since they do not require drilling into the trunk.
If you have ash trees on your property, now is the time to start thinking about preventative treatments.
You can learn more on these websites: