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Emerald Ash Borer in London


July 2012

Ash tree treatment and removals continue throughout identified areas of the city. Efforts are being made, wherever possible, to replant with suitable replacements as soon as possible.

Right now

We need to target trees that can be saved.

In recent years, options have been developed that will allow preservation of trees in the short term. In other words, treating ash trees bi-annually could be less expense than removing them.

We strongly encourage the preservation of ash trees wherever possible to maintain our status as the Forest City.

A large percentage of London's treatable ash trees are located on private property. Ash trees which are still healthy and structurally sound can be protected if residents know about them and choose to treat them.

It is recommended you assess your trees immediately to determine which course of action is appropriate. These could include:

  • injecting the tree if it's determined to be a candidate for treatment;
     
  • removing the tree before parts of it become hazardous;
     
  • removing the entire tree when it dies. Dead trees are brittle and most prone to breakage and causing damage (this last scenario will likely put you and your neighbours at greatest risk and be the most expensive action you can take).

The sooner you begin treatment, the better chance you have of saving your tree. If your trees show signs of infestation, you are encouraged to have the tree removed before it becomes dead and brittle and the costs go up.

 

June 2011

Throughout the early months of 2011, City of London crews examined trees on streets and in parks to determine the extent of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in the city.

It became evident that EAB is all across London - with the greatest concentration in the city's north and east.

This insect has the potential to kill all of the city's ash trees over a short period of time - it is anticipated within 7 to 10 years, left untreated, most of our ash trees will be dead.


Yard waste instructions for the city of London


Protecting the Forest City's ash trees
 


If you are unsure if a tree is on your property or City-owned property, please call our Forestry Division at 519-661-5783.

adult EAB with wings
Emerald Ash Borer (adult)

serpentine tunnels made by EAB larvae
Photo of ash tree with bark removed; shows galleries of trails bored by EAB in larvae stage