Description:
Emerald ash borer (EAB), a lethal insect to ash (Fraxinus sp.) was discovered in Michigan in May, 2002, but was probably introduced into the state at least five years previously from Asia, its native origin. EAB-infested ash trees originating from within the quarantine area in Michigan were shipped illegally to a Prince George's County, Maryland nursery in April of 2003 where adult emergence occurred, infesting other ash in the Maryland nursery. At that time the MDA removed ash trees from the area around the nursery and began monitoring for the beetle. In 2006, MDA rediscovered the emerald ash borer in that same area. Since then, more ash trees have been removed in an effort to prevent the beetle from moving to new areas, and the beetle has been discovered to occur also in Charles County. Maryland efforts are ongoing to slow the spread, and to limit the impact of this invasive beetle in Prince George�s and Charles counties.

Key Cooperators:

• Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) $$
• USDA APHIS $$
• Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
• University of Maryland (UM)

Duration: 2003-Present

Regulatory status:
State and Federal Quarantines

More Information:
MDA, http://www.mda.state.md.us/go/eab
DNR, http://www.dnr.state.md.us/dnrnews/infocus/emerald_ash_borer.asp
UMD, http://www.hgic.umd.edu/content/emeraldAshBorer.cfm
USDA APHIS, http://www.hgic.umd.edu/content/emeraldAshBorer.cfm

Contact:
Carol Holko, MDA

$$ - Indicates primary funding source(s)