Backyard

Where in the world is the Emerald ash borer?

The Emerald ash borer (EAB), is native to a very large geographic area of East Asia that includes northeast China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Mongolia and the Russian Far East. In its home range EAB is a minor, not particularly common secondary pest that attacks stressed trees of the local species of ash, predominately Chinese and Manchurian ash. Before 2002, EAB had never been found outside of its...

Searching for Survivors; Researchers in the Midwest are studying ash trees that appear to have survived EAB infestations

Since the discovery of emerald ash borer (EAB) in 2002, the news of the infestation has been bleak.  Containment efforts have failed to stop the relentless spread of this ash-killing pest and billions of trees are at risk. 

Now that the dust is settling after the initial infestation in the Midwest, scientists are able to research whether any ash trees were able to survive....

Winter months ideal time to check trees

With the leaves long gone from the trees, now is the ideal time to check ash trees for any sign of the emerald ash borer.

The bug, which originated in Michigan in 2002 after likely coming in ash wood used in packing or crating from Russia, China, Japan or Korea, can destroy ash trees, weakening them beyond repair.

“Right now with the leaves off, you can really see damage by wood...