Native to Asia, emerald ash borers (EAB) were first detected in the United States in 2002. In just over two decades, they have spread prolifically and caused devastation to ash trees across the country. In order to curb tree damage, tree care professionals like those at Maier Tree and Lawn work hard to mitigate the impact of these tree pests and borers. But we don’t work alone. Rochester, MN residents can contribute to these efforts by staying vigilant and reaching out when signs of EAB become apparent on their property.
Emerald Ash Borer
Emerald ash borers lay their eggs on the bark of ash trees, and after the larvae hatch, the larvae bore into the tree's inner layers. The life cycle naturally disrupts the flow of nutrients and water to the tree’s system, leading to a steep decline in the tree's health and eventual death.
Tree Pests Like Emerald Ash Borer
Though much of the initial damage is internal, infested ash trees may also display thinning canopies and dead branches. As the infestation progresses, the tree's bark may show signs of woodpecker activity as they feed on the larvae. If a homeowner misses the earliest signs, these later symptoms are much easier to spot with the naked eye. Any major change in the health of a tree on your property is worthy of investigation, and that becomes twofold when the tree in question is an ash variety.
Loss of Healthy Trees
The loss of healthy, mature ash trees not only impacts the aesthetics of a wooded area but also disrupts the ecological balance and reduces shade cover in urban areas. Maier Tree and Lawn’s arborists work diligently to address the EAB threat and preserve trees inside and outside of city limits. Our strategies include monitoring the spread of the tree pests, implementing quarantine measures to prevent infested wood from being transported, and conducting targeted pest removal and treatments to slow down the infestation's progress.
Tree Pests
As our team continues the fight against invasive tree pests, we want to highlight the power of a proactive approach to managing these pests. Early detection, community collaboration, and prompt action are vital to protecting Rochester’s green spaces. If a tree on your property or in your area is showing signs of tree pests or tree damage from an unknown source, Maier Tree and Lawn can help.
Rochester, MN area residents can contact our tree experts at (507) 286-8733 or visit our website for more information. Maier Tree and Lawn provides tree damage consultations year-round and is eager to support you in protecting and preserving your local trees.
