Leave Hungry Pests Behind (Emerald Ash Borer)
Are you unknowingly harboring tiny hitch-hikers? One of the ways pests, diseases and harmful weeds spread is by hitching a ride with humans, pets and vehicles. An invasive pest is one that is introduced to areas that are not part of its natural range, where it may not have any natural enemies to keep its population in check. Invasive pests can wreak havoc on agricultural crops and natural areas like forests and watersheds, causing economic, environmental and even human health impacts.
Viewer Tip: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) declared April Invasives Awareness Month. There are several pests that are being monitored as “most damaging” in the United States, including the Emerald ash borer, which has destroyed tens of millions of ash trees in 15 Midwestern and northeastern states. What can you do to prevent the spread of the Emerald ash borer and other invasive pests?
- Inspect. Regularly inspect ash trees for signs of Emerald ash borers and notify your state department of agriculture or USDA if you suspect an infestation. Learn more about the signs and symptoms: www.hungrypests.com/the-threat/emerald-ash-borer.php.
- Buy local, burn local. Don’t transport firewood – Emerald ash borer larvae can hide in the bark. If you receive and ash tree or firewood, ask about the source and supplier.
- Clean up. Wash outdoor gear and tires before and after fishing, hunting or camping trips. Clean lawn furniture and other outdoor items when moving from one home to another.
Learn more about “most damaging” invasive pests and their impacts at www.hungrypests.com.
(Sources: USDA. “Emerald Ash Borer,” www.hungrypests.com/the-threat/emerald-ash-borer.php; “What You Can Do,” www.hungrypests.com/what-you-can-do/)
