Officials Warn Residents on Overpriced EAB-Tree Removal

The Illinois Arborist Association (IAA) has warned consumers that some tree care companies may be overcharging for the removal of trees infested with emerald ash borer beetle (EAB), according to a press release from the Village of Wilmette. 

Warren Goetsch, Bureau Chief of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, had two recommendations for North Shore consumers choosing a company for EAB-infested tree removal.

"Make sure you talk to three, five, or seven companies," Goetsch told Patch. "Some of them have different capabilities and equpiment. Some prices are higher because they don't have the degree of equipment that cuts the job in half."

John Kemppainen of Wilmette's Forestry Department echoed Goetsch sentiments.

"Residents should solicit multiple quotes to ensure they are receiving a price that they are comfortable paying for the work which needs to be done," Kemppaninen said.

Residents should also choose companies who have signed an EAB compliance agreement with the department, Goetsch said. 

"The purpose is so companies are well-aware of the state and federal regulations that minimize the artificial spread of EAB," Goetsch said. "We're trying to maintain a quarantine zone. We don't want an infested tree cut down in Wilmette, and taken out to the Quad cities."

A list of EAB compliant companies can be found at the department's website.

The list of certified arborists, whose knowledge of trees has been measured and documented, can be viewed here.

Emerald ash borer is a beetle first discovered in Kane County, IL in 2006, and, if not quarantined, the bug has the potential to destroy the entire ash tree species in North America, according to the Illinois Department of Agriculture's website. The DOA also recommends not transporting firewood outside the state of Illinois.

In the meantime, officials continue to try and save the healthiest trees around the village.