LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Drought stress and pest threats are continuing to challenge trees across Nebraska.
According to the Nebraska Forest Service, 15 counties across the state have confirmed infestations of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in ash trees.
Courtesy Nebraska Forest Service
EAB is a beetle native to Asia that was introduced to Detroit, Mich., in 2002.
The forest service says it has destroyed tens of millions of true ash-species trees in more than 25 states, including Nebraska.
According to the forest service, around 44 million ash trees in Nebraska will die in the coming years because of EAB.
“Many EAB researchers say it has the potential to functionally wipe out the ash species with devastating economic and ecological impacts,” the forest service said.
EAB symptoms include canopy thinning and branch dieback, usually starting at the top of the tree.
Bark splitting, zigzag tunnels under the bark and D-shaped exit holes are also signs of EAB.
EAB spreads mostly through human-assisted movement, such as moving infested firewood and nursery stock.
For information about treatments, see the publications Emerald Ash Borer Guidelines for Nebraska Homeowners and Emerald Ash Borer Treatment Options.
