Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, is an exotic beetle that was discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in the summer of 2002. The adult beetles nibble 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.
Emerald ash borer probably arrived in the United States on solid wood packing material carried in cargo ships or airplanes originating in its native Asia. Emerald Ash Borer is also established in twelve other states and parts of Canada. While Emeral Ash Borer is not yet a problem in California, it may be in the future.
In an effort to educate people about the effects of Emeral Ash Borer, the USDA Forest Service, Michigan State University, Ohio State University, and Perdue University have developed a series of free webinars called Emerald Ash Borer University. There are six webinars from February through April. To register, visit the Emerald Ash Borer website. Through the EABU program, Californians can be prepared for the pest and possibly learn ways to deal with other exotic species like Goldspotted Oak Borer.