Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Pelham

Pelham Residents:

The DCR and MDAR confirmed the presence of Emerald Ash Borer in Pelham in early February. So far the only known incidence is off of Rt. 202 (NB side), about 300 north of Amherst Road. 

This is an introduced, invasive insect that infests and eventually kills trees in the ash (Fraxinus) genus. It is spread over large distances primarily by moving infested firewood and, over smaller distances naturally during the insect's mating season. 

The following link https://www.mass.gov/guides/emerald-ash-borer-in-massachusetts provides more information, and the attached map shows the latest communities affected. The attachment below is a map that indicates the latest locations of the emerald ash borer in Massachusetts.

Control of this pest on a large scale, woodland level is not feasible, but there are pre-infestation treatments that seem to be effective for high value landscape trees.

If you have any questions, or would like more information on managing or treating you ash trees, contact David Hawkins, Pelham Tree Warden, (413) 253-4266, or by email dhawkufs@comcast.net.