Is emerald ash borer still a threat in Illinois?

Is emerald ash borer still a threat in Illinois?

“Sadly, the emerald ash borer will eventually wipe out our native ash species in Illinois as we know them, leaving a major void in our urban forests and natural areas since ash is currently so prevalent,” says Ryan Pankau, a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension.

What problems do Emerald ash borers cause?

Emerald ash borer infestations cause significant ecological and economic impacts in forested and urban habitats. In forest habitats, losing the majority of ash trees can affect tree species composition, natural forest succession, and nutrient cycling. Habitats also become more vulnerable to invasion by exotic plants.

How can we prevent more invasions from emerald ash borer?

The analysis includes specific recommendations for preventing the next high impact invasion:

1. Switch away from solid wood packaging, as more than 90 percent of wood boring insects have recently invaded the U.S. through this material.
2. Minimize new pest outbreaks by expanding early detection and rapid response programs.

Can a tree survive emerald ash borer?

EAB usually requires a minimum of a few years to kill an otherwise healthy tree. Infested trees can be successfully treated, even those with a fair amount of canopy decline. Beyond about 50 percent decline, however, recovery is less likely.

Can you save ash trees from emerald ash borer?

Can ash trees be saved from emerald ash borer? In many cases, yes. Ash conservation efforts are stronger than ever, and treatment options are available to protect trees. In fact, when applied correctly, EAB treatment is 85 to 95 percent effective.

What eats an emerald ash borer?

Woodpeckers love to eat emerald ash borer larvae, and heavy woodpecker damage on ash trees may also be a sign of infestation.

How did the emerald ash borer arrive?

Emerald ash borer probably arrived in the United States on solid wood packing material carried in cargo ships or airplanes originating in its native Asia. As of October 2018, it is now found in 35 states, and the Canadian provinces of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Manitoba.