For Immediate Release
Contact: Marla Eddy, City Forester, 266-4450, cell 220-9638
Laura Whitmore, Parks Community Relations, 266-5949

Emerald Ash Borer Tree Survey In Madison Begins Wednesday, February 28
The search for emerald ash borer in Wisconsin, and specifically in Madison, takes a new turn on Wednesday as state and local crews start felling ash trees in locations around Madison. All tree locations are located either on a street right of way or in a city park (List of locations see Parks website)

The City of Madison's Forestry Section in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection has developed an emerald ash borer (EAB) program of ongoing education, early detection, response and management plan.

The tree survey work began on December 14, 2006. DATCP's plan is to fell approximately 1,400 ash trees statewide (sample trees) and check for signs of an EAB infestation. On another roughly 4,400 ash trees (detection trees), workers will remove a ring of bark around the base of the tree in a process called girdling, but leave those trees standing as "EAB bait" until they are taken down next fall and winter. The girdled trees act as a lure, making it easier to detect the beetle if it's in the area.

"Early detection of emerald ash borer will be key in stopping its spread," said Marla Eddy, Madison City Forester, "The City of Madison Forestry Section is pleased to support the efforts of DATCP's EAB Program with continuing public education and coordination of a local response plan."

Emerald Ash Borer Reference Information
Emerald Ash Borer is an exotic beetle originally from Asia. It was discovered in southeastern Michigan in July 2002. There are now 5 million trees in SE Michigan dead or dying due to this beetle.

About 30% of Wisconsin's and 20% of Madison's street trees are ash. In Madison, that adds up to about 20,000 ash trees. The ash species was heavily planted after Dutch Elm Disease swept the city. Ash was so popular within urban areas because they could withstand all urban types of conditions such as clay soils, road salt accumulation, and air pollution.

Website information
http://emeraldashborer.wi.gov
www.cityofmadison.com/parks

DATCP Hotline: 1-800-462-2803