Emerging Pest: Emerald Ash Borer
Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, is a small (½ inch) metallic green, highly destructive beetle discovered in southeastern Michigan in 2002. Experts believe this beetle arrived several years prior to its discovery, infesting solid wood packing material from shipments from its native Asia.
Adult beetles feed on ash foliage, but cause little damage. However, the larvae (the worm-like immature stages) feed on the inner bark of ash trees and disrupt the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients. Unlike other tree-boring beetles, EAB feeds on and kills healthy ash trees. Since its discovery, EAB has killed more than 30 million ash trees in Michigan alone with tens of millions more lost in Ohio and Indiana.
On its own, the beetle moves slowly through the landscape, only about one mile annually. However, humans have greatly accelerated the spread of this exotic insect by moving infested nursery stock, firewood and logs to non-infested areas. A federal quarantine has been issued to prevent potentially infested ash trees, logs or hardwood firewood from moving out of areas where EAB occurs. Quarantined states include Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Maryland. It is important not to move firewood from these heavily infested states into Nebraska.
Because of the inevitability of this beetle reaching Nebraska, home owners may want to think twice before planting ash trees in their home landscape. The Nebraska Forest Service no longer recommends planting ash trees in the state.
Emerald ash borer has not been found in Nebraska so far. But, it is important to stop the spread of this beetle quickly if it shows up.
Peak emergence of the beetle is in June. Beetles will be found feeding on foliage of ash trees. If you see this beetle, or think your ash tree may be infested, contact Nebraska State Entomologist, Julie Van Meter at 471-6847.
Source: NebLine
