Ash Tree Removal

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive insect that attacks and kills ash trees killing up to 99% of the trees it impacts. Adults lay eggs on the bark of ash trees and the larva burrow tunnels and feed on the living tissue of the tree just below the bark (cambium). When the adults emerge, they leave a distinctive ‘D’ shaped exit hole. Each female can lay 50-70 eggs, and they are excellent flyers which has enabled their population to spread quickly.

EAB was first identified in Simcoe County in 2013 and it was only a matter of time before the rest of the region’s trees were impacted. EAB was identified at the Tiffin Conservation Area in 2019, and has quickly spread throughout much of the property.

A thorough hazard tree/ash assessment was conducted in 2018 and there was no evidence of EAB infestation at Tiffin at this time. EAB was likely present during the surveys, just not in significant enough numbers to evidently be impacting the trees.

Over the next few years, NVCA staff will be conducting hazard tree/ash removals to ensure visitor safety. Not all infected trees will necessarily be removed, if a tree doesn’t pose a hazard to trail users, it may be left on site to provide habitat opportunities for a variety of species.