City Confirms Arrival of Emerald Ash Borer

The City has confirmed that, as expected, the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has now arrived in Kingston’s urban area. Yesterday, a strip branch survey conducted by a City tree inspector identified firm evidence of the Emerald Ash Borer.

“We have been monitoring our trees in anticipation of this invasive beetle’s arrival. Residents are reminded to check their ash trees for infestation. Owners are advised to consult an arborist if they see the D-shaped borer holes in their ash trees,” says Troy Stubinski, Public Works Operations Manager.

This invasive species of beetle has been making its way across Ontario infesting and killing ash trees.

Yesterday’s findings were reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the public agency in charge of tracking the infestation, which only affects ash trees. For more information on how to identify and respond to an EAB infestation in your ash tree.

In anticipation of the EAB’s arrival, the City is developing an Emerald Ash Borer Impact Mitigation Strategy, which so far includes:

• An inventory of municipally-owned ash trees.
• A seasonal information piece to let residents know that the beetle was expected to reach to the area (in the Spring and Summer Your City supplements)
• Online instructions on how to inspect ash trees for the telltale holes made by this green beetle’s larvae.
• The on-request offer of a booklet on the Emerald Ash Borer donated to the City of Kingston, by the City of Toronto.

The City will continue to monitor its municipal ash trees for the EAB, and more information will be provided as the Impact Mitigation Strategy continues to be developed.