What Is Emerald Ash Borer?
One of the most critical issues we are currently addressing through our PHC program is Emerald Ash Borer. Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle that attacks ash trees by feeding beneath the bark, where the tree moves water and nutrients between its roots and canopy. Over time, this damage weakens the tree, leading to decline and, if left untreated, eventual death.
Emerald Ash Borer is spreading rapidly across our region, and Vermont’s ash trees — which make up roughly 5% of the state’s forest — are at serious risk. Since its arrival in Vermont, Emerald Ash Borer has caused widespread loss of ash trees in both forests and residential landscapes. Because early damage often occurs out of sight, many trees appear healthy until decline is already underway. Over 99% of untreated ash trees eventually die, leading to costly tree removals, lost canopy, and reduced property values. In areas across the nation where EAB has become established, Municipalities see forestry costs rise by around 20% as they manage hazardous trees and emergency removals, adding financial strain to communities.
All North American ash trees are at risk from Emerald Ash Borer, including common species in Vermont such as white ash, green ash, and black ash. These trees are highly susceptible, and without treatment, nearly every infected tree will die. The good news is that early evaluation and proactive treatment while trees are still healthy can protect mature trees, preserve landscape and property value, and help avoid the costly ecological and financial consequences of advanced decline. Ash trees can often be successfully protected when Emerald Ash Borer is identified early and treated appropriately.
How Do I Know If My Ash Tree Is Infected?
Emerald Ash Borer damage begins inside the tree, making early detection difficult without professional evaluation. By the time symptoms are visible, the tree is likely already under significant stress. We encourage our clients to schedule ash tree assessments with our Plant Healthcare Department to determine if treatment is appropriate. Early assessment—before an obvious visible decline—is the most effective way to protect ash trees.
There are several visible signs homeowners can watch for. If you are seeing any of the following signs, it is imperative that you contact a certified arborist to assess the stage of infection and to help determine the best next steps for management.
- Thinning or dying branches at the top of the tree; decline often starts in the upper canopy before moving downward.
- Sparse or smaller-than-normal leaves; leaves may appear reduced in size or density as the tree struggles to move nutrients.
- Increased woodpecker activity; woodpeckers feed on Emerald Ash Borer larvae beneath the bark, often leaving lighter patches or flaking bark behind.
- Vertical splits or cracks in the bark; as the tree responds to internal damage, the bark may split over time.
- D-shaped exit holes; adult beetles leave small, D-shaped holes in the bark when they emerge, though these can be difficult to spot.
How do I protect my trees?
Taking action now is the best way to safeguard your ash trees. Acer Tree Co. offers Emerald Ash Borer trunk injections, one of the most effective and environmentally responsible prevention and treatment options available. Trunk injections deliver treatment directly into the tree’s vascular system, providing long-lasting protection while minimizing exposure to surrounding plants, soil, and pollinators.
Treatment is most effective when applied proactively—before a significant decline has occurred. Trees that are structurally sound and showing minimal symptoms respond best, which is why early evaluation and ongoing monitoring are key elements of successful protection.
What is an EAB Trunk Injection and how does it work?
Emerald Ash Borer trunk injections use a targeted treatment that travels through the tree’s internal system to protect it from beetles feeding beneath the bark. The main ingredient, emamectin benzoate, is highly effective and long-lasting, providing protection against both larvae and adult beetles for 2 years with just one single application.
Because the treatment is delivered directly into the tree, only a tiny amount is needed, and there is minimal exposure to soil, water, or nearby plants and pollinators. Licensed professionals drill small access points into the lower trunk to deliver the insecticide into the tree’s vascular system, where it circulates internally to stop Emerald Ash Borer at all life stages before serious damage occurs. When applied by trained professionals, trunk injections are considered one of the safest and most environmentally responsible ways to protect ash trees.
Summary of Benefits from our EAB Prevention Services
- Protects treated ash trees against EAB infections and associated damage.
- Long-lasting protection — typically 2 years per application
- Reduces potential for financial strain on homeowners and municipalities due to emergency removal, hazard management and tree replacement costs of untreated trees.
- Preserves mature, high-value trees, maintaining canopy cover, shade and protecting property values.
- Targeted applications (injections) minimize environmental exposure exposure to soil, water, pollinators, and surrounding plants through targeted application
If you are concerned about Emerald Ash Borer or actively noticing changes in your trees, Acer Tree Co. ‘s Plant Healthcare team is here to help. We encourage anyone with impactful ash trees on their properties to reach out now and start a conversation about responsible, long-term tree care. We’re always happy to review what you’re seeing, answer questions, and help you determine whether Emerald Ash Borer prevention services are right for your trees.
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