Emerald ash borer prompts street tree removal
Due to the infestation of the emerald ash borer, 105 ash trees along East Washington Boulevard from Edsall Avenue to Anthony Boulevard will be cut down July 26th – July 27th. Hardwood shade trees will be planted in the fall to replace the ash trees that have been removed.
“Replacement of these trees on one of our gateways is critical to the overall image of our community and will add value for residents,” said Chad Tinkel, City Arborist and Manager of Forestry Operations.
The emerald ash borer, an exotic beetle from Asia, was discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in the summer of 2002 and arrived in Indiana in 2004. Emerald ash borer were likely transported to the United States in cargo ships or airplanes carrying solid wood packing material. The adult beetles feed on ash foliage, but cause little damage. The larvae (the immature stage) feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. For more information on the emerald ash borer, visit www.emeraldashborer.info .