Emerald ash borer reaches Jones County

     Emerald ash borer (EAB) has been confirmed in Jones County, as well as Chickasaw and Franklin counties, for the first time, bringing the total to 69 counties in Iowa where this invasive insect has been detected.

     Insect samples were collected from Anamosa in Jones County, along with New Hampton in Chickasaw County and Hampton in Franklin County. Officials with the Animal and Plant Health and Inspection Service (APHIS) of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed these samples positive for EAB.

     EAB is a non-native beetle that attacks and kills ash tree species. Adult beetles lay eggs on the bark of ash trees. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae bore beneath the bark and begin feeding on the water and nutrient-conducting tissues. Infested trees typically die within two to four years.

     Ash trees infested with EAB can exhibit canopy thinning, water sprouts from the trunk or main branches, increased woodpecker activity, serpentine (S-shaped) galleries under the bark, vertical bark splitting and 1/8-inch D-shaped exit holes.

     The spread of EAB is accelerated by transport of infested wood products such as firewood. People are reminded to use locally-sourced firewood to help reduce the spread of EAB.

     EAB was first discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in 2002, and has now spread to 35 states. This exotic pest was first detected in Iowa in 2010.

     The treatment window for soil-applied preventive treatment measures (soil injection, soil drench, or granular application) and basal bark sprays has ended. Trunk injections can be done now through the end of August if a landowner is interested in protecting a valuable and healthy ash tree within 15 miles of a known infestation.

     Good soil moisture is critical for the effectiveness of any systemic insecticide movement in a tree. More details pertaining to treatment are available in Iowa State University Extension and Outreach publication PM2084: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/13114.

     To find a certified applicator in your area, download PM3074 and follow the steps: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/Finding-a-Certified-Pesticide-Applicator-for-Emerald-Ash-Borer-Treatment.

     The State of Iowa monitors the spread of EAB on a county-by-county basis. Anyone who suspects an infested ash tree in a new location is encouraged to contact one of the following:

     • Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship, State Entomologist Office: 515-725-1470.

     • Iowa Department of Natural Resources: 515-725-8453.

     • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Entomology: 515-294-1101.

     To learn more about EAB and other pests that are threatening Iowa’s tree population, please visit http://www.iowatreepests.com.

 

 

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