Emerald Ash Borer

The emerald ash borer is a non-native, invasive metallic-green beetle that bores into ash trees ultimately killing them. It was first identified in North Carolina in 2013, in Granville, Person, Vance and Warren counties.  The N.C. Forest Service tracks its movements and its current range in North Carolina. Susceptible trees in North Carolina are green ash, white ash, Carolina ash, pumpkin ash and white fringetree. This beetle can spread naturally (by flying) or through movement of infested material such as firewood or ash timber.

 

Emerald Ash Borer (NC State Extension)
The emerald ash borer (EAB; Agrilus planipennis) is a non-native invasive pest from Asia that has already killed millions of ash trees. It was first detected in the United States near Detroit, Michigan in 2002. Since then, it has spread to much of the United States and into Canada. It was first found in North Carolina in 2013 and is now prevalent across much of the state.

Emerald Ash Borer Frequently Asked Questions (North Carolina Forest Service)
This publication answers common questions including what is emerald ash borer how does it kill a tree, what trees are affected, where is it from and more.

Map – Current known distribution of emerald ash borer in North Carolina (North Carolina Forest Service)
updated November 5, 2021

What is in Your Firewood? Emerald Ash Borer (North Carolina Forest Service)
The best method of controlling the EAB is to prevent its introduction. Since the beetle can live in cut wood, infested wood debris and firewood should not be moved long distances. If traveling for recreational activities, it is recommended to leave firewood at home and buy local firewood at the destination.

Emerald Ash Borer Program (North Carolina Department of Agriculture, Plant Industry Plant Protection Section)
As a result of the widespread presence of EAB in North Carolina, Commissioner Troxler signed an emergency order placing the entire state under quarantine for emerald ash borer in 2015. Home and landowners are encouraged to report any symptomatic activity in ash trees to their local N.C. Forest Service County Ranger.

Emerald Ash Borer (Virginia Cooperative Extension)
The first indication of damage by the emerald ash borer is cracks in the branch’s high in the tree followed by canopy dieback.

Emerald Ash Borer Information Network (Emerald Ash Borer Information Network)
The emerald ash borer larvae feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients.