ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Department of Agriculture is urging residents to be on the lookout for possible Emerald Ash Borer infestation. With temperatures rising in our region, EAB will once again be active throughout the state. EAB has been present in Western Maryland since 2003, and state officials recently confirmed that EAB has spread to Kent County on the Eastern Shore. The entire state remains under federal quarantine.
Ash trees infested with EAB will die if left untreated. Dead ash trees snap, which creates a major safety hazard. Dead trees should be removed, and any resulting firewood should be burned within 50 miles to prevent further spread of EAB.
Woodpeckers often find EAB-infested trees before humans. Increased woodpecker activity coupled with ash tree decline can indicate a building EAB population. The only Maryland counties that are negative for EAB are Cecil, Caroline, Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset counties. Any cases of dead or declining ash trees in those counties should be reported to the department at 410-841-5870.
EAB infestations can go undetected for years, which underscores the need to remain vigilant throughout the state — even in counties that are not positive for EAB. Spring is the best time to treat trees and protect them from EAB. Trees should be treated prior to major loss of canopy. Details on treating trees for EAB can be found in the Homeowner’s Guide to EAB.
For more information on EAB, visit the department’s website and the Maryland Invasive Species Council.
— Maryland Department of Agriculture