The City of Lakewood has confirmed its first case of emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle that poses a threat to ash trees in the area. The infestation was discovered in central Lakewood and verified by the Colorado State University Extension Office in Jefferson County. The beetle specifically targets and destroys ash tree species, including popular varieties like the ‘autumn purple ash’. The Colorado State Forest Service notes that about 15 percent of trees in Colorado’s urban forests are ash trees, making the beetle a major threat statewide.
Residents are urged to look out for signs of infestation including D-shaped exit holes, bark splits, canopy thinning, abnormal growth, and woodpecker activity. Treatment options are available, but success depends on the tree’s age, size, and condition. Older, healthy trees may benefit from preemptive treatments, while younger or distressed trees may not. Trees unsuitable for treatment should be removed and disposed of properly to prevent further infestation.
Authorities caution against transporting untreated ash wood beyond the Front Range and recommend safe disposal methods such as chipping, composting, milling into lumber, or taking to a landfill. When seeking professional assistance, residents are advised to hire certified arborists and licensed pesticide applicators. For more information on identifying ash trees, symptoms of EAB, treatment options, and safe disposal of ash wood, residents can contact the Jefferson County CSU Extension office or the Jefferson County Invasive Species Management Office.
Source
Photo credit denvergazette.com
