Emerald Ash Borer Finds Its Way to North Carolina

The emerald ash borer, or Agrilus planipennis fairmaire, is a shiny green beetle that is destroying ash trees throughout the Appalachian region.

According to the Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, the beetle has already killed hundreds of millions of ash trees in North America.

An infestation can be spotted by the “D” shaped holes on the leaves of the ash trees that the beetle will eventually kill. The loss of ash trees is detrimental to biodiversity, forest industries and property owners across the country.

Campers, hikers and drivers should watch for falling trees and branches near ash trees.

Moving firewood is one of the main causes for the spread of the emerald ash borer. Experts suggest using locally sourced firewood to prevent infestation.

— Tristin Van Ord