Stay In The Know! Facts on Emerald Ash Borer

What is Emerald Ash Borer? The purpose of this article is to inform the public of an invasive pest currently attacking ash trees in North Carolina – Emerald Ash Borer. EAB is a serious threat that is currently devastating the ash populations within this state.

• More than 7.5 billion ash trees are at risk for EAB
• On June 17, 2013, Emerald Ash Borer was found in NC
• There are more than 2 million ash trees currently in NC
• Once present to the tree host, Emerald Ash Borer is always fatal
• The state of North Carolina requires wood to be quarantined where EAB is present
• Heavy woodpecker damage on ash trees may be a sign of infestation
• Preventative measures can be taken to prevent this disease from spreading

Where are EAB located? Confirmed EAB Sightings In NC

Charlotte 

• Belmont

Concord 

• Freedom Acres
• Trinity Church Road
• Morris Glen

Raleigh

• Crabtree Valley Mall

Greensboro 

• West Friendly Street

High Point 

• Rockford Road

Emerald Ash Borer protection and treatment options for your ash trees

There are a variety of treatment options that can control EAB but they are not a cure for the disease once your ash tree has been infested.  Insecticides are available to protect high-value ornamental trees. This is recommended when the beetle is known to be within 15 miles of the tree. If your tree is already infested and over half the crown is still alive, insecticides may be used therapeutically, with annual or biannual retreatment, to help trees recover.

Unfortunately, within two years of observing symptoms, most of the crown of the ash tree will be dead. Complete tree death typically occurs within five years but may occur sooner.

At Carolina Tree Care, we are available for any  additional information regarding the serious issue that North Carolina will continue to face if citizens are not educated on preventable measures available. Please give us a call.