The Moorestown Tree Planting and Preservation Committee wants residents to know what EAB is and how it’s affecting local trees.
The following is a message from the Moorestown Tree Planting and Preservation Committee:
You may have heard or seen ads recently about EAB, so the Moorestown Tree Preservation and Planting Committee would like to share the facts about EAB in Moorestown.
Emerald ash borer (EAB) is a non-native insect pest that infests and kills all species of ash trees. EAB was first discovered in 2002 and has since been found in 25 states and killed tens of millions of ash trees. EAB reached us in Moorestown in November 2015. While removing a dead tree, a municipal employee discovered the infestation and confirmed it was EAB. It is estimated in the next 3 to 5 years all ash trees in Moorestown may be dead.
According to the township-wide tree inventory, there are about 300 township-owned ash trees along the streets and in parks. It is unknown how many ash trees are on private property. The township is closely monitoring its ash trees to determine when and if the trees need to be removed. A few key township ash trees have been treated to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. Several township ash trees have been removed. Those sites will be considered for replanting during the next planting cycle.
The Tree Committee has assembled some information for homeowners which are located under the Informational Documents on our Township webpage. http://www.moorestown.nj.us/185/Tree-Planting-Preservation-Committee.
The “Ash Tree Identification” document will help to determine if you have any ash trees. If you do have any ash trees you can use the “NABB Decision Guide” to help you decide what action to take. If you decide you want to treat your ash trees, “Insecticide Options for EAB” is a good report on Insecticide Options for Protecting Trees from EAB. On page 9 of the report is a table of various insecticide options. Any treatments should occur between April 1 — May 15.
NOTE: Homeowners are cautioned to beware of unsolicited tree companies wanting to remove your trees. Use only licensed tree professionals when dealing with treatment or removal of ash trees.
To learn more about EAB in NJ you can visit www.emeraldashborer.nj.gov/ .
If you have any questions you can contact the Tree Committee at moorestowntrees@gmail.com. If you need more help identifying ash trees, contact the Tree Committee for assistance.
