Cobourg embarks on Emerald Ash Borer control

By Cecilia Nasmith

The Town of Cobourg has announced its intention to begin removing and replacing infected as trees as part of its on-going Emerald Ash Borer Preparedness Plan.

The town's press release notes an increase in the number of infected ash trees throughout the town over the past year, due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer beetle that feeds on the tree's inner bark and disrupts the flow of nutrients and water throughout the tree. There is no known method to eradicate this invasive species.

Town arborist Rory Quigley said they have identified public ash trees that they are actively monitoring for signs of infestation.

“We want to remove these dead or declining trees before they become more of a risk to the public,” Quigley said.

The Emerald Ash Borer originated in Asia and is believed to have spread beyond that continent through shipping packaging made of untreated wood. In southern Ontario, it has caused the decline and death of many ash trees, and its presence in Northumberland County was confirmed six years ago.

The town's plan calls for continued assessment and tracking of infected trees. Any home owners adjacent to town-owned ash trees that are found to be infected will be notified by letter and informed of scheduled removal and replacement dates. Trees that are removed will be replaced on a one-to-one basis after taking into consideration site conditions and species diversity for the neighbourhood.

Meanwhile, anyone who believes he or she may own an ash tree infected with the Emerald Ash Borer is asked to contact Quigley at rquigley@cobourg.ca or 905-372-8641 ext. 4370.

For more information about the town's Emerald Ash Borer Preparedness Plan, visit www.cobourg.ca/EAB.