News Release – June 15, 2016

Protecting Trees from Deadly Pest

June 15, 2016 - York, PA - For local ash trees, the arrival of a devastating pest in the Susquehanna Valley is very bad news. The Emerald Ash Borer has been an unwelcome guest in the United States for several years, but until recently it had not been found in our area. Unfortunately, all that’s changed and the beautiful ash trees that shade our neighborhoods and line our streets are now in danger.

Recently, various media have shared the ramifications of Emerald Ash Borers on local plants. In their larval stage, these beetles bore into trees causing thinning of the tree canopy and branch dieback. Infested trees succumb quickly to the pest, dying after three to four years, but residents should not give up hope for their trees.

Significant research has and is currently being conducted to yield more advanced treatment options. Preventative treatment, before infestation even occurs, is the best way to protect ash trees. The Coalition for Urban Ash Tree Conservation indicates that a course of insecticidal treatments, applied by experts, is highly effective.

Locally, leading tree care provider Bartlett Tree Experts is working to preserve trees and help educate property owners on this pest. “It is extremely important that Susquehanna Valley residents understand what this pest can do, how it spreads, and what can be done to prevent loss of this important component of our urban forest,” said Erik Johnson of Bartlett’s office in York, PA.

According to Erik Johnson, scientists at the company’s 350-acre research laboratories have developed specific treatment recommendations for managing this pest. In fact, Bartlett offices in other states with Emerald Ash Borer have already implemented these recommendations and are successfully preserving trees. Periodic inspections, prompt removal of heavily infested trees and annual treatments with the appropriate insecticides are just part of this success.

Erik Johnson urges property owners to remember that each tree is different and should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. “In many ways, trees are like humans and pets. Each tree responds differently to stressors and the prescribed treatments,” stated Erik Johnson. “By assessing trees individually, we can determine how to best treat them. Or, if removal is the only option, we can do so in a way to help protect other trees on the property from the same fate.”

About Bartlett Tree Experts
The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company was founded in 1907 by Francis A. Bartlett and is the world's leading scientific tree and shrub care company. The organization's current chairman, Robert A. Bartlett Jr., represents the third generation of Bartlett family management. Bartlett has locations in 27 U.S. states, Canada, Ireland and Great Britain. Services include pruning, integrated pest and disease management, soil analysis and management, cabling and bracing, tree lightning protection systems and tree/stump removal. Its corporate offices are located in Stamford, Connecticut.