Emerald Ash Borer

Communities across Ontario are dealing with the Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive pest. This metallic green-coloured beetle has destroyed over 20 million Ash trees in North America. It is a threat to urban and forested areas. The Emerald Ash Borer has been identified in Fort Erie.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Emerald Ash Borer:

What does the Emerald Ash Borer do to Ash Trees?

The Emerald Ash Borer larvae destroy the layer under the bark that transports nutrients and water throughout the tree. With this transportation system blocked, an otherwise healthy tree may die in 2 to 5 years. Therefore, EAB only attacks actual Ash trees.

What does an Ash tree look like?

Key attributes of ash trees include:

Compound leaves with 5 to 9 leaflets
Leaflets, buds and branches growing directly opposite from one another
Diamond-shaped bark ridges on mature trees

How many Ash trees have the EAB infested in Fort Erie?

Town staff estimate that about 16,500 Ash trees are infested with EAB in Fort Erie, with approximately 80% located on private property. Therefore, ash trees comprise about 60-75% of all trees in Fort Erie.

How much damage can the Emerald Ash Borer cause to Ash trees?

EAB-infested trees that do not receive treatment within a specific period will die. Unlike other tree species, Ash trees killed by EAB have complete tree failure sooner after death. As a result, infested trees are more likely to fall, increasing the risk of injury or property damage. The mortality rate of an EAB-infested tree can be as fast as one year, but it usually occurs within 2-3 years.

What will happen to a Town-owned Ash tree near my property?

Town-owned EAB-infested trees are:

Identified
Tagged
Marked with white paint by the Town Arborist

Trees marked with an "X" or "X&H" will be removed. Trees marked with a white "dot" identify the tree as healthy.

What if I have a privately-owned Ash tree on my property?

If you have an Ash tree on your property, contact a certified arborist to assess your tree's health. If your tree is healthy, insecticides are available that can protect it from an EAB infestation. If EAB has already infested your tree, a tree care professional can remove it before it becomes a hazard.

What can you do if you think EAB has infested your Ash tree?

Don't hesitate to contact Fort Erie Town Hall at 905-871-1600 to speak with one of our customer service representatives. Customer service will add your concern to our list of trees to inspect.

Extra tips to help combat the EAB infestation:

Refrain from moving infested wood material to new areas.
Firewood should be locally sourced, burned on-site, and not left behind.
For more information, visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency or the Ministry of Natural Resources.