It was an unfortunate find on Saturday, July 14th 2012 when Urban Tree Specialists identified the first confirmed case of the Emerald Ash Borer in Platte County, MO. Our trees were already suffering from the severe drought conditions, now many of our ash trees have a much more dangerous problem, the EAB. The drought conditions didn’t cause the EAB; however, it will most likely help the EAB spread faster as it feeds on our weakened trees.
The good news is that we now know it’s here and to be on the lookout for it. Urban Tree Specialists will continue to give honest advice based on the long-term benefits and value of the trees on a property. Each case is different and some ash trees may be worth protecting and saving, while it may be better to plan for removal and replacement of others.
Urban Tree Specialists will continue to add content and updates to our website when possible. There is a lot of great information out there and the majority of it can be found through www.emeraldashborer.info. We have included a much shorter version and links to find additional information. We encourage homeowners to be diligent and regularly inspect their trees, especially ash. If you have any questions, potential trees to investigate, or wish to inquire about protecting your valuable ash trees, please give Urban Tree Specialists a call at 816-214-8327 or Email . Thanks for caring for your urban trees.
Is it an ash tree?
The first step to determining whether you have Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is to make sure your tree is actually an ash. EAB only attacks ash trees, so if it's not an ash, you don't have EAB! Follow these three simple steps to identify an ash: [...]
So you have an ash tree, now do you really have EAB?
There are seven signs that point toward EAB. If you have two or more of the first six, and most importantly step seven, then your tree may be infested with EAB. Call Urban Tree Specialists as soon as possible for a professional assessment to discuss your options. Don't wait! EAB is destructive and spreads easily. [...]
Should you treat your tree for EAB?
Urban Tree Specialists only recommends treating your ash tree for EAB if it's valuable to you and/or your overall landscape and property value. (Distance from known infected trees should also be a key consideration.) There are several reasons why your tree may be of high value to you. Is it the only shade on the southwest side of your house? Is it the only tree in your front or back yard? Does it provide important privacy and screening? [...]
Why remove your ash tree?
Nobody should start removing their ash trees because the EAB is in the area. There are several factors to consider and it may not ever be a pressing decision depending on the value of your tree and where you live. The key decision is the long-term cost of treatment versus the value of the tree and cost for removal. In many cases, you might be better served by removing an infected tree and replanting another species. [...]
Additional information to be released shortly
Urban Tree Specialists are happy to assess your tree(s) and give you an estimate for the cost of treatment or cost for removal so you can explore your options and consult directly with a professional about what is best for your property. [...]
Informational Links:
- extension.missouri.edu/emeraldashborer
- mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/files/resources/2010/05/eab_csi_2010-12-10.pdf
- www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/emerald_ash_b/index.shtml
- www.dontmovefirewood.org
- www.eab.missouri.edu
- www.emeraldashborer.info
- www.isa-arbor.com/findArborist/verifyArbByLoc.aspx
- www.kansasforests.org/pubs/community/index.shtml
- www.ksda.gov/plant_protection/
- www.mdc.mo.gov/forest/health/ashborer/