No new counties added to list for emerald ash borers

Summer trapping for the emerald ash borer did not detect the invasive, tree-killing beetle in any new counties in the state, but more beetle sites were discovered in already-infested counties.

And the beetle will likely continue to spread.

The emerald ash borer is responsible for killing countless ash trees in the United States. Native to Asia, the beetle was first found in the U.S. near Detroit in 2002. Since then, it has spread to 24 states.

In 2013, the emerald ash borer was first found in North Carolina in Granville, Person, Warren and Vance counties. All four counties remain under quarantine, meaning ash material and hardwood firewood cannot be transported from a quarantined area to a non-quarantined area (some exceptions are made; for example, wood that has been heat treated or had the bark removed may be moved with a compliance agreement from the Plant Industry Division). While the emerald ash borer can fly from tree to tree over short distances, it can easily spread over long distances through the transportation of infested material (hence the restriction on firewood movement). The quarantine was established to best protect the remaining ash resources in the state from long-range, human-facilitated movement.

Looking for the emerald ash borer is a job that never ends. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division and the N.C. Forest Service actively conduct visual surveys across the state. In addition, detection may depend on casual observations and the ability of residents to identify and report an infestation.

To report a suspected emerald ash borer site in North Carolina, call 1-900-206-9333 or email newpest@ncagr.gov.