If you have ash trees then the emerald ash borer (EAB) could be a major problem for you. These shiny little bugs are originally from Asia and Eastern Russia but what found in Michigan in 2002. It’s believed they were accidentally carried over in shipping boxes which were made out of ash wood. Since then they have migrated throughout the United States.
Emerald Ash Borer in Kansas City
It isn’t clear when the EAB arrived in the Missouri and Kansas City areas but their was talk around July 2012 that Kansas should begin preparing for the threat of infestation. It is estimated that their are approximately 4.6 million ash trees within the Greater Kansas City regions.
It is estimated that if the EAB is found within 10 miles of your home, you’re at a high risk of being infected within the next year. This pest is a strong flying and kills fast. This is why it is important to take preventative action. By providing your ash trees with a yearly preventative treatment you are more likely to keep the emerald ash borers from ever entering the cambium of your trees bark; which would ultimately prevent them from being able suffocate the tree.
The Good News
These little bugs sound pretty deadly, right? Luckily, in the past ten years there has become awareness and better products which can help improve the death rate of our ash trees. Another positive note is that if your trees are attracted and less than 30% of the trees dies it is possible to save that tree.
Now that you have the knowledge of what is going on, it is important to take action. Heritage would be happy to answer any of your question and get your home started on a preventative treatment. Please give your Lawn Coach or our office today! The sooner you take action the safer your trees will be. Plus, the more trees that are protected the less the emerald ash borer can spread.
