Emerald Ash Borer Damage

Back for more info on EAB? This photo was taken in October 2010 on Morgan Road in Chili, NY, following the discovery of several infested trees. Experts have determined that EAB has been in this tree for approximately 5 years. This is significant in that nearby ash trees, while not showing signs or symptoms, are almost certainly already infested.
Pictured here are the 'serpentine galleries' created by the feeding of the Emerald Ash Borer larvae. The larvae travel back and forth, feeding on the cambium of the tree, just beneath the bark. The cambium is where the vascular system of the tree is located. When this tissue is destroyed, the tree cannot transport water and nutrients and the end result is death.

I heart fall!

Just have to take a break from the EAB postings on such a beautiful fall day here in the Rochester/Finger Lakes region! Have you ever seen such a color? This is a weeping Black Tupelo - nyssa sylvatica- a native tree with the most glorious fall color. Growing here in moist, well-drained soil, it is obviously very happy. The summer foliage is very glossy and deep green - this tree is a winner!!

EAB - woodpecker damage

One of the earliest signs of damage caused by EAB on ash trees is woodpecker damage. The birds are experts at detecting infestation under the bark and will flake the bark off in search of the larvae. The tree with minimal damage is young and showing early signs of infestation, while the more heavily damaged tree is dead. Again, in the Rochester/Finger Lakes area we do not need to wait for signs of infestation. This deadly pest is on its way and the sooner we act to treat existing ash trees, the better success we will have.

EAB signs and symptoms

As Emerald Ash Borer continues to be spotted in the Scottsville/Chili area, nearby homeowners may be interested in what to look for on their ash trees. Pictured here is a 'D-shaped' exit hole, created when the adult borer emerged. This sign is not always present, however. In our area, all ash trees are at risk! A valued tree should receive preventive treatment in spring 2011.

Ash Tree ID: one last installment

Ash trees are one of a few types of trees where the branch arrangement is opposite. The branches are attached directly across from one another, or 'opposite.' This is especially easy to see in winter when the leaves are off the tree.

Ash Tree ID: another installment

Bark: on mature ash trees the bark is rough and diamond-shaped. Young ash trees may have smooth bark. (There is lichen on this ash tree - not harmful, just grows in moist, shady sites.)

Ash Tree ID

This is the first in a series of identification clues for ash tree, to help you determine if you have an ash tree on your property, or if you know of an ash tree of value in places you work or visit. Ash trees have compound leaves with between 7 and 11 leaflets. They are green in summer and may be yellow or shades of russet in fall.

Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer has arrived in Western New York. This devastating pest will, over time, decimate the ash tree population in New York State as it has done in Michigan. As I write this in early October, it is easy to identify ash trees as they are exhibiting their yellow fall color. Imagine that many of the yellow trees you see now will be gone! Individual trees can be saved with pesticide injections, however. Spring is the best time to inject, giving individuals time to prepare. Get ready! And, please do not transport firewood! This is one of the ways EAB is spread.