Since 2002, when it was first discovered that the emerald ash borer had made its way to Ontario, policy-makers and researchers have been racing to control the spread of this seemingly uncontrollable pest.
The emerald ash borer, an invasive insect species that can attack and kill any type of native ash tree, is incredibly difficult to detect early and spreads through the movement of logs, trees, branches and firewood.
The Regional Municipality, which has seen sustained growth of tree infestation since 2008, approved a $10 million 10-year management plan to tackle the problem in 2011. Earlier this month, York’s Commissioner of Environmental Services released an infestation update.
The update reveals that the insect is continuing to spread across the region and that "ash tree mortality is occurring at faster pace than originally predicted."
It also reveals however, that the removal and replacement of trees, while unable to keep up with infection rates, is taking place a faster rate than was originally forecasted. Furthermore, the update reveals that the Region has managed to directly educate approximately 500 residents on identification and management strategies.
In 2012, 600 infected trees were removed from within the York Region, by the end of this year crews will have removed an additional 1,500.
"The Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan provides direction for York Region staff to deal with the effects of this insect," said York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch. "Dying and dead trees along Regional roads may pose a health hazard if they fall and must be removed. All trees that are cut down will be replaced with a different species, not susceptible to the Emerald Ash Borer."
Writer: Katia Snukal
Source: Regional Municipality of York