Did you know that the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has been confirmed in Barrington, IL?
The Village of Barrington, IL has some great answers to frequently asked questions on their website, check out some details below:
What is EAB?
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive pest new to our area. The pest is a native of Asia and was most likely brought to this country in shipping crate lumber. This pest lays eggs on ash tree specimens (the only species it currently infects.) The larvae burrow into the vascular tissue of the trees, just below the surface of the bark. The larvae feed on this tissue during the course of their development. The damaged tissue is that which feeds the tree. The trees can no longer provide food for themselves, causing their demise and ultimate death. All ash tree species are susceptible and will most likely fail within the next few years. Ash specimens are no longer a viable species for our area. More information can be found at www.emeraldashborer.info.
Where is EAB?
EAB is spreading throughout the United States, rapidly, from what is thought to be the original infestation area near Detroit, Michigan. Evidence of EAB infestations has been found in areas of the Village.
How do you know a tree is infested with EAB?
There are several symptoms and signs that show us where the pests are. Primary identifiers are split bark, d-shaped exit holes, and woodpecker damage. Bark tends to split on the smaller trees a season after feeding has begun. When the bark splits, you can visibly see the feeding galleries. D-shaped exit holes from adult emergence are also an identifier. While many pests can leave exit holes, EAB has a distinct size and shaped exit wound. For mature species, our greatest telling damage is the presence of woodpeckers. As EAB larvae mature, woodpeckers find the larvae irresistible and feed primarily on these during the fall and winter months. Heavily infested trees are riddled with holes from this feeding activity, although only a handful of wounds on a tree can be an excellent identifier of the earliest stage of a big infestation. Heavily infested trees can appear to be perfectly healthy, unless you know what you are looking for. Once a tree is infested, it is a matter of a brief period of time before the tree will fail. As in human healthcare, early diagnosis can be made when good health seems obvious. Seeming health does not negate the problem, or its dire prognosis.
Will the Village remove my privately-owned trees?
No. Private property maintenance issues are just that, private. As with Dutch Elm Disease, both State statute and Village code require the prompt removal and destruction of any infested ash tree found on private property. Inspection and enforcement is handled through the Village’s Engineering and Building Department.
Find a complete list of FAQ’s relating to Barrington and the Emerald Ash Borer by visiting the Village of Barrington’s website.