Emerald Ash Borers Spread Across the U.S.

“Originally in 2002, when the first detections were made, it was an approach of eradication,” said Mr. Blosser, “They would cut down the ash tree and try to eradicate the beetle that way.” Since early 2007, officials have changed their strategy and focused on slowing the ash borers’ spread through surveys, education and regulations.

Emerald ash borers can seriously damage trees in the landscape and have currently spread to more than 13 states. Instead of eradicating the insects, though, the nation is taking a different approach in defeating the invasive insects with panel traps used to lure the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) and delay their spread.

The traps are a survey tool used to determine the extent of the infestation of the Asian beetle and are part of a nationwide study, said Walt Blosser, state plant regulatory official for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

The color of the trap, coupled with a scent lure, attracts adult insects, which are then stuck fast to the sticky surface. No poisons are involved. The traps are more numerous near logging and milling businesses and campgrounds, places where lumber and firewood are concentrated.

When an infestation is found, counties are put under quarantine. A quarantine restricts movement of ash nursery stock, green lumber and any other ash material, including logs, stumps, roots and branches.

“Peak emergence for the borer is in late June and early July, then it drops off as the adults come out and mate and lay their eggs,” Mr. Blosser said. “The adults will eventually die off. What is left is the larvae in the trees. We are trying to work with industry and the populace and get them to buy into the restriction of fire wood and ash products.” Mr. Blosser said.

Slowing the borers’ spread gives more time for research into ways to manage the pest, he said. Researchers are currently working on chemicals and bio-control agents, he added.

Researchers plan to remove the lures in August.

Source: Susan Banks, post-gazette.com.