Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

What is EAB?
The Emerald Ash Borer, or EAB, is an insect from Asia that first appeared in Michigan ash trees in 2002. Since its discovery in North America, it has spread to surrounding states and parts of Canada, and is destroying literally millions of ash trees in forests and cities alike, including Valparaiso.

The adult EAB, shown at right, will burrow just under the bark of the ash tree and lay eggs. In spring the larvae that hatch start eating the cambium layer of the tree. This is the layer that transports water from the roots to the tree. When this layer is destroyed by these voracious larvae, the tree is essentially girdled and cannot survive.

• What homeowners should know
• Reporting EAB in city ash trees