Ash trees across our service area continue to take a hit from emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle that tunnels under the bark and cuts off a tree's ability to move water and nutrients. Once an infestation is advanced, the wood becomes brittle and prone to sudden limb failure.
The tricky part is that a heavily infested ash can look fine from a distance right up until it isn't safe anymore. Thinning canopy, bark splitting, and woodpecker activity are the signs worth watching for on any ash tree on your property.
If you've got mature ash trees, especially ones near a house, driveway, or fence line, it's worth having a professional take a look before the damage progresses further. Some trees can be treated if caught early; others need to come down before they become a hazard.
Do you know if you have any ash trees on your property? A lot of homeowners aren't sure until someone points it out.
#EmeraldAshBorer
A close-up photo of bark splitting or D-shaped exit holes characteristic of emerald ash borer damage, or a wider shot of a declining ash tree's thinning canopy.
Canva text suggestion: "Emerald ash borer is here: is your ash tree at risk?" or "Brittle wood, hidden damage"