Emerald Ash Borer in New York State

Emerald Ash Borer found at West Point in Orange County, NY

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Emerald Ash Borer found at West Point in Orange County, NY

In July 2011 an adult emerald ash borer was found at West Point in Orange County, NY. It was found in an emerald ash borer trap, hung in an ash tree on the school’s campus. The insect was confirmed by the USDA  Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service staff. Fortunately, a follow-up investigation of the property determined that there were not any infested ash trees. The investigation was conducted by Cornell University and West Point Natural Resources staff. Orange County is now included in New York State quarantine lists.

The insect was found in Buffalo at the South Park in June 2011. Ash trees are just about 2% of the Buffalo trees in the city and 10% of the trees in city parks. The infestation was found just days after finishing an emerald ash borer awareness training. Less than a dozen trees in South Park showed infestation at the initial survey. The trees were along the park’s perimeter, in a wooded area.

Emerald ash borer was found in Rochester, NY in June 2011 by the City Forestry Division personnel both in and around the Upper Falls Park, on St. Paul Street Downtown. When they inspected, they discovered that seventeen ash trees were infested and one had died. Rochester has decided to remove some of the at-risk ash trees and to use chemical treatment with pesticides that are approved for emerald ash borer.

emerald-ash-borer-actual-sizeIf you live in New York State, it is time to pay attention to the risks associated with emerald ash borer. Remember that this pest travels fast. Protect your trees and property. If you are a homeowner or a property owner in New York State, you are probably concerned about emerald ash borer. This destructive insect has made its way, from state to state across the country, destroying ash trees along the way.  Don’t ignore the threat this pest may cause for your ash trees.