What is the Emerald Ash Borer and why is it a threat to ash trees?

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle from Asia that feeds on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting their ability to transport water and nutrients. This leads to tree death, and EAB has already killed tens of millions of trees in the U.S.

Are there effective treatments for Emerald Ash Borer in North Carolina?

Yes, one of the most effective treatments is emamectin benzoate, which is injected into the trunk of the ash tree. This treatment can protect a tree for multiple years and costs significantly less than removing a dead ash tree.

How do I know if I have an ash tree on my property and if it’s at risk?

You can refer to the NC Forest Service's ash tree identification guide or contact a qualified arborist for a professional inspection. All four native ash species in North Carolina—gGreen, white, pumpkin, and Carolina ash—are at risk.

Why is it important to act now to protect ash trees from Emerald Ash Borers?

Emerald Ash Borer populations are rapidly increasing in North Carolina, and untreated ash trees are likely to die within the next five years. Preventative treatment now is the most cost-effective and ecologically responsible solution.

Emerald Ash Borer: Save Your Trees

Originally from Asia, the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive metallic green beetle that causes significant harm to ash trees.

This beetle was first discovered in Michigan in 2002 and likely entered the US via wooden crates holding products from Asia.

Since 2002, EAB has spread to 20 states and killed tens of millions of trees throughout the US. Yes, you read that right – tens of millions of trees are gone because of Emerald Ash Borers. This pest feeds on the transportation tissue of ash trees, which causes death by preventing the ash tree from absorbing water and nutrients. Unfortunately, EAB has no natural predators here in the US.

In recent months there has been a steep increase in the Emerald Ash Borer population across North Carolina. As such, North Carolina’s four species of ash trees (Green Ash, Pumpkin Ash, White Ash, Carolina Ash) are now officially at risk.

If ash trees in the Triangle are not treated soon, we will likely lose all of our ash trees within the next five years.

Ash tree showing damage from emerald ash borer

The good news is that it is possible to save your ash trees.

There are several highly effective treatments for EAB, including Emamectin Benzoate applied directly into the trunk of the tree.

Concerned about the cost of treatment? You can protect your trees from Emerald Ash Borers for over 20 years for less than it would cost to remove a dead ash tree.

If you have ash trees on your property, now is the time to start thinking about preventative treatments. Send us a message to schedule a free consultation.

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