Most people in the area have heard about the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) by now. This non-native insect has been wreaking havoc on the ash trees of southeast Michigan and northwest Ohio. Once established in an area, EAB has been observed to kill all of the ash trees. Unfortunately, there is no “cure” for infested trees.

The most honest answer to this question is “possibly”. EAB research is very young. Before June 2002, not even the most knowledgeable scientists in the U.S. knew this insect existed. Since EAB was discovered a lot of research has been started. It is ridiculous to call any of these studies “long-term” when you consider the potential life span of ash trees could be hundreds of years.

Early studies have offered some promise. Systemic insecticides have been used in trees to successfully combat similar insects such as the bronze birch borer and peach tree borer. Proper use of these and other products will likely be effective in stopping the destruction of emerald ash borer in treated trees.

Before spending money on a treatment program, individual trees should be evaluated to decide which are good candidates for such an investment. The overall health of the tree can help dictate the likelihood of success. There are two reasons this is the case. First, unhealthy trees will not absorb the pesticide well. Second, the insecticide will probably not kill 100% of the EAB larvae attacking the treated trees. A healthy tree can respond to minor damage and recover. However, if the tree is in poor health before these insects attack, it does not have the resources to repair the damage. A final note to those considering treating their trees: trees that are already visibly infested by significant EAB populations are probably damaged beyond successful treatment. The pesticides are best applied as a preventive measure.

Advanced Tree Health will be glad to help evaluate individual trees for treatment. Should you choose to enter into a treatment contract with Advanced Tree Health, the evaluation fee will be waved.

If you are interested in reading about some of the treatment options, a multi-state  has published a publication available by clicking here.  Advanced Tree Health offers all of the treatment options discussed except for “protective cover sprays” because these present, what we feel is, an unacceptable hazard for pesticide drift to non-target areas with little or no benefit of increased control.

Finally, as with any pesticide use, it is essential to understand the impact of the treatment on the rest of the environment. Several entomologists have been researching this question and have produced a summary document detailing the potential impacts. That publication is available by clicking here.  Anybody applying the pesticide should understand the risks and how to help clients select the best product and delivery method for the each circumstance.