Today the Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station (CAES) released an updated press release on the current Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus plainpennis) infestation in Connecticut. If you recall from our study of the Emerald Ash Borer (if you missed it check past “Ask the Arborist” editions) both Green and White Ash have been the subject of destruction by this ruthless exotic insect that is believed to reach upper Michigan from Asia in the late 90’s. Being an exotic insect there are not many natural predators and the widespread attacks and devastation threaten our North American Ash tree population. Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) that has been largely centered in New Haven County is now rapidly expanding into Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, and Middlesex Counties. To date 38 Connecticut towns have detected Emerald Ash Borer and sadly this does include us here in Newtown, Connecticut. According to literature cited from “The Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station dated July 16, 2014 the Emerald Ash Borer has been responsible for the death of tens of millions of Ash trees from Colorado and the mid-west to New England and south to Georgia. Connecticut forest is comprised of about 4 – 15% Ash and about 2 – 3% of the urban forest. According to” State Entomologist Kirby C. Stafford III” we are seeing a lot of Ash mortality and even more will die with the expanding infestation. Homeowners need to consult with local licensed Arborist for management options for keeping high valued trees. There are several very effective systemic insecticides that have shown good protection. Untreated Ash trees will die within 2 – 3 years and can become hazardous, requiring removal. Remember proper insect identification is necessary prior to any chemical management program. The Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station strongly encourages property owners to use only licensed Connecticut Arborist to treat or remove trees.
Presently in Connecticut we have both a state and federal mandated quarantine regulating the movement of Ash logs, Ash material including nursery stock and firewood from Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield and New Haven Counties to any areas outside those counties to help slow the spread of Emerald Ash Borer. Please be mindful that Newtown, CT is within Fairfield County and that we are presently under an Ash log quarantine. Emerald Ash Borer is often spread in the transport of unsuspecting Ash logs or firewood. Contact Forester Jeff to help identify your Ash trees or determine if you have Emerald Ash borer. Remember Forester Jeff is always available to give your trees a FREE LOOK-UP FROM THE TRUNK-UP! jeff@yackoandsons.com or 203-733-9219.
