Dallas, Texas, December 30, 2025
The emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive beetle, poses a serious threat to ash trees in Dallas. Confirmed in the area, this pest infests various ash species, causing quick decline and death. Local efforts aim to monitor and treat affected trees, but challenges remain due to cost and ecological impacts. Homeowners are advised to check trees for signs of infestation and consider preventive measures to protect their ash trees.
Emerald Ash Borer Threatens Ash Trees in Dallas, Texas
Dallas, Texas – The emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive beetle species, has been confirmed in Dallas, posing a significant threat to the city’s ash trees. This destructive pest has been present in North Texas for approximately eight years, leading to the decline of ash tree populations.
Impact on Ash Trees
The EAB targets all species of ash trees, including green ash, white ash, and Texas ash. The larvae burrow into the bark, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients, which can lead to the death of the tree within two to three years. Visible signs of infestation include:
- Dead branches near the tops of the trees
- Stems and leaves sprouting from the trunk
- Splits in the bark showing S-shaped larval galleries
- Extensive woodpecker activity
- D-shaped exit holes in the trees
Citywide Efforts to Contain the Infestation
The Dallas Park and Recreation Department is actively surveying urban forests to inventory ash trees. Special tags are placed on treated trees to indicate they have received insecticide applications. However, due to ecological and economic considerations, mass treatment of all ash trees is not feasible. Each treatment costs between $200 and $400 per tree, making widespread application impractical. Additionally, insecticides can affect other wildlife, leading to a more selective approach in treatment.
Management and Prevention Strategies
For homeowners and property managers, it’s crucial to monitor ash trees for signs of EAB infestation. If more than 50% of the tree’s crown is affected, removal is recommended. Trees with less damage may benefit from treatment with systemic insecticides, which can protect the tree for two to three years. Proper disposal of infested wood is essential to prevent the spread of the beetle; burning, burying, or chipping the wood on-site is advised.
Background on the Emerald Ash Borer
Native to Asia, the EAB was first discovered in North America near Detroit, Michigan, in 2002. Since then, it has spread to over half of the United States, causing the death of tens of millions of ash trees. The beetle’s larvae feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting nutrient and water flow, leading to the tree’s decline and eventual death. In Texas, the EAB was first detected in Harrison County in 2016 and has since been confirmed in 31 counties statewide, including Dallas County. The Texas Department of Agriculture has imposed quarantines in affected areas to prevent the spread of the beetle, restricting the movement of untreated wood and hardwood firewood outside these zones.
Conclusion
The emerald ash borer continues to pose a significant threat to ash trees in Dallas and across Texas. Ongoing monitoring, targeted treatments, and public awareness are essential to manage and mitigate the impact of this invasive species on urban and rural forests.
FAQ
What is the emerald ash borer?
The emerald ash borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle species native to Asia that targets all species of ash trees, including green ash, white ash, and Texas ash. The larvae burrow into the bark, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients, leading to the tree’s decline and eventual death.
How can I identify an EAB infestation in my ash trees?
Signs of EAB infestation include dead branches near the tops of the trees, stems and leaves sprouting from the trunk, splits in the bark showing S-shaped larval galleries, extensive woodpecker activity, and D-shaped exit holes in the trees.
What should I do if I suspect my ash tree is infested with EAB?
If more than 50% of the tree’s crown is affected, removal is recommended. Trees with less damage may benefit from treatment with systemic insecticides, which can protect the tree for two to three years. Proper disposal of infested wood is essential to prevent the spread of the beetle; burning, burying, or chipping the wood on-site is advised.
How has the EAB spread in Texas?
The EAB was first detected in Harrison County in 2016 and has since been confirmed in 31 counties statewide, including Dallas County. The Texas Department of Agriculture has imposed quarantines in affected areas to prevent the spread of the beetle, restricting the movement of untreated wood and hardwood firewood outside these zones.
What are the broader impacts of the EAB on forests?
The EAB poses a significant threat to urban, suburban, and rural forests as it kills both stressed and healthy ash trees. Ash trees may die within two or three years after becoming infested. The loss of ash trees can lead to increased numbers of invasive plants, changes in soil nutrients, and effects on species that feed on ash.
Key Features of the Emerald Ash Borer Threat in Dallas, Texas
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Species Affected | All species of ash trees, including green ash, white ash, and Texas ash |
| Signs of Infestation | Dead branches near the tops of the trees, stems and leaves sprouting from the trunk, splits in the bark showing S-shaped larval galleries, extensive woodpecker activity, and D-shaped exit holes in the trees |
| Management Recommendations | If more than 50% of the tree’s crown is affected, removal is recommended. Trees with less damage may benefit from treatment with systemic insecticides. Proper disposal of infested wood is essential to prevent the spread of the beetle; burning, burying, or chipping the wood on-site is advised. |
| Spread in Texas | The EAB was first detected in Harrison County in 2016 and has since been confirmed in 31 counties statewide, including Dallas County. The Texas Department of Agriculture has imposed quarantines in affected areas to prevent the spread of the beetle, restricting the movement of untreated wood and hardwood firewood outside these zones. |
| Broader Impacts | The EAB poses a significant threat to urban, suburban, and rural forests as it kills both stressed and healthy ash trees. Ash trees may die within two or three years after becoming infested. The loss of ash trees can lead to increased numbers of invasive plants, changes in soil nutrients, and effects on species that feed on ash. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
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