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Emerald ash borer (EAB) is an invasive wood-boring insect that was introduced into North America from China and eastern Asia. EAB attacks and kills healthy and stressed ash trees. All ash species are susceptible in varying degrees. EAB was recently detected in Orillia. Once detected, it cannot be eradicated.
Over the past few years a percentage of eligible ash trees on public properties were injected with a treatment to preserve them as long as possible. Moving forward the remaining ash trees on public properties will be removed as they die and possibly replaced over time.
Over the next year (2020), the City will be focusing on a study to determine the current extent of the infestation, to develop a plan and implementation strategy for an EAB response. This will include the removal and disposal of infested ash trees growing on public property, treatment of some public ash trees, expanded EAB monitoring, and public awareness and education.
As the EAB study progresses more information will be provided regarding the removal of ash trees on private property, proper disposal of ash trees, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is EAB and what does it do to our trees?
EAB is an invasive pest introduced into North America. It feeds on and kills ash trees whether they are healthy or stressed. It is the larval stage of the beetle that kills the tree. The larvae feed on the tissue underneath the bark. The larval feeding girdles the tree, cutting off the flow of nutrients and water causing the tree to die.
Q. Does EAB attack all trees?
EAB attacks only ash trees of Fraxinus genus. All ash species are susceptible in varying degrees.
Q. Is the EAB beetle in Orillia?
Yes, EAB has been detected in Orillia. Once detected, it cannot be eradicated. The City is currently working with National Resources Canada.
Q. How did EAB get to Orillia?
It would be difficult to determine how EAB arrived in Orillia. EAB is spread mainly by people moving firewood, nursery stock, trees, logs, lumber, wood or bark chips. All these forms of wood can contain EAB larvae. The beetle can also fly several kilometres.
Q. I've noticed ash trees marked with an orange dot in my neighbourhood. What does that mean?
Ash trees that have been identified for removal will be marked with paint prior to removal. All ash trees that are removed will be either chipped on site or disposed of at an approved disposal site to minimize the risk of the beetle being introduced into another area of the City.
Q. Some of the ash trees slated for removal look healthy. Why are you removing them?
We understand that the sudden loss of many seemingly healthy trees can be a very disappointing change to the landscape. However, in its early stages, EAB infestation in a tree is almost impossible to detect - trees that appear healthy can be infested. Left uncontrolled, EAB spreads quickly, killing all ash trees in its path in a short period of time, leaving dangerous standing dead trees. Tree replacement is being planned.
Q. What does the emerald ash borer look like?
Adult beetles are metallic green, narrow, hairless and approximately 1.25 cm (1/2 inch) long and .3 cm (1/8 inch) wide. Mature larvae are approximately 2.4 cm (1 inch) long and creamy white. The body is flat, broad shaped and segmented.
