The Emerald Ash Borer in Newark: Life Cycle and History

The jewel-toned emerald ash borer in Newark may look pretty, but the insect has carved a path of destruction across the country. Despite long term efforts by state agencies to prevent further spread, this invasive insect was recently spotted in the local area. Following is a short history and information about the life cycle of this non-native pest.

Where did the Emerald Ash Borer Come From?

The emerald ash borer originates in Eastern Asia where its population is kept in check by local predators. Many believe the emerald ash borer was introduced to America through wooden packing material brought over on ships.

The Emerald Ash Borer’s History in America

Since the insect was first noticed near Detroit in 2002, the emerald ash borer has destroyed millions of ash trees across the country. The spread began slowly, but has escalated in recent years. 

• 2002 – Confirmed in Michigan and Windsor, Ontario
• 2003 – Ohio
• 2004 – Northern Indiana
• 2006 – Northern Illinois and Maryland
• 2007 – Pennsylvania and West Virginia
• 2008 – Wisconsin, Missouri, and Virginia
• 2009 – Minnesota, New York, Iowa, and Kentucky 
• 2010 – Tennessee
• 2012 – Connecticut, Kansas, and Massachusetts
• 2013 – New Hampshire, North Carolina, Georgia, and Colorado
• 2014 – New Jersey and Arkansas
• 2015 – Louisiana
• 2016 – Delaware, Texas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Alabama 

Life Cycle of the Emerald Ash Borer

The emerald ash borer has three distinct stages of its life cycle. In the first cycle, eggs are laid between layers of the bark or in crevices to allow the newly hatched larvae better access to the sapwood underneath. Once hatched, the emerald ash borer feed off the inner wood of the ash tree, leaving galleries that disrupt the tree’s ability to properly get water and nutrients. The galleries are the most destructive aspect of the emerald ash borer’s impact, and are what eventually lead to the tree’s death.

Once colder temperatures hit, the larvae dig deeper into the wood to wait out the winter. The adults, which feed off the leaves at the top of the tree, emerge from D-shaped holes in the spring, and the cycle starts again.

What Property Owners Can Do to Help Slow the Spread of EAB

Property owners can take steps to prevent or reduce the damage caused by the emerald ash borer in Newark. Check your ash trees for signs of a potential infestation and contact a certified Arborist for prompt attention. Signs of an infestation include:

• Thinning leaves at the top of the tree
• Galleries under the bark
• D-shaped exit holes

Stein Tree Service is Licensed to Treat Emerald Ash Borer in Delaware and Pennsylvania

Chemical applications are sometimes needed to treat EAB and they can only be applied by licensed vendors. Stein Tree Service is licensed to apply the treatments for EAB and other tree care. For more information about treating your ash trees for the emerald ash borer in Newark, please contact the team at Stein Tree Service today!

Stein Tree Earns Permit to Work in Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Areas
Stein has a permit to work in spotted lanternfly quarantine areas in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Tree Service Companies have to be trained in proper moving and disposal of materials to avoid spread of the spotted lanternfly and Stein has completed the training courses. Learn more.

Emerald Ash Borer Inspection
In the spring, destructive emerald ash borer (EAB) adult beetles begin to emerge. These invasive pests can destroy your ash trees. Our specialists are certified to treat for EAB in Pennsylvania and Delaware. For a free consultation, contact us today.