Are your ash trees in danger in Ontario? Ash trees in many parts of Ontario, Canada, and the United States are in danger of being killed by a destructive beetle. Learn more about the dangers of the emerald ash borer, or EAB, and find out how you can keep your home safe from dead trees and the spreading invasion.
Dangers of EAB
EAB is a small beetle with a vibrant emerald colour. This tiny insect is harmless to humans but wreaks havoc on ash trees. The beetle bores into the tree and eats a significant amount of wood under the bark. Over time, this feeding strategy kills the ash tree.
The beetle is native to Asia but reached North America in 2002. Originating in parts of southeastern Michigan, the insect soon spread to over 35 states in the United States and to Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Manitoba. It’s been estimated to have killed hundreds of millions of ash trees throughout North America. Despite quarantines and other multinational efforts, the infestation has continued to spread.
A standing dead tree is a hazard to everyone in the area. High winds can cause the tree to fall without warning, so a dead or dying tree can be a serious safety concern. Once the EAB has killed an ash, it’s important to have it cut down promptly. A single tree is relatively easy to remove, but the ongoing EAB infestation isn’t stopping at just a few trees.
There are some prevention strategies, but it’s often difficult to spot signs of EAB in your area until it is too late. Unfortunately, many homeowners have to resort to ash tree removal before they are aware that the insect has been active in their region.
EAB in Guelph
The city of Guelph has cut down over 800 ash trees in Preservation Park and other areas where individuals enjoy public spaces and trails. Not only is this a costly service to the community; it also signals an issue that’s spreading across Ontario.
According to city officials, there are as many as 10,000 trees throughout the area that need to be removed. These dead ash trees can’t be saved and are a liability to anyone who wants to enjoy camping, hiking or other outdoor activities in city parks and on state land.
Possible Regions Soon Affected
While the area around Guelph is being affected with a severe infestation of EAB, researchers are expecting the infestation to spread throughout other areas of Canada as well. This beetle infestation is expected to spread as far as Edmonton, Saskatoon, Calgary, Winnipeg and Thunder Bay. Over time, it may be difficult to protect ash trees throughout the country. Researchers are continuing to look for ways to prevent the spread of this invasive species throughout North America.
How Climate Change Is Affecting the Spread
Some researchers consider climate change to be a factor in the spread of the infestation. As temperatures have slightly increased in western Canada in recent years, EAB has found temperatures warm enough to spread and find ash trees in a growing region.
EAB can’t survive in very cold conditions, so it also bores into ash trees to stay warm. Once it bores, it can easily kill the tree off. This process has resulted in significant damage and costs associated with tree removal services.
Protect Your Trees and Your Safety Today
At Martin’s Tree Service, our tree removal services offer you an affordable, safe way to protect your property and your household from the dangers posed by infested ashes and other problem trees. Don’t let EAB cause your property to become unsafe. Contact us today to learn about emerald ash borer prevention strategies and learn how you can safely and affordably remove your ash trees in Ontario.
Steve Martin
