The results are in and the news is good. Only 14 of the more than 3,000 traps tested positive for EAB according to Todd P. Haymore, Commissioner of the (VDACS). The infestations are confined to Arlington and Fairfax counties in Northern Virginia, areas already known to have EAB.
VDACS, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Fairfax County's Urban Forest Management Program implemented the 2009 EAB survey and placed 3,274 traps throughout the Commonwealth, the majority—2,693 traps—were placed in Northern Virginia.
Inspections were conducted several times throughout the summer to ensure proper placement, replace the lure and collect specimens which were then sent to the Insect Identification Laboratory at Virginia Tech for identification.
"While we did see indications of continued EAB activity in Northern Virginia," said Commissioner Haymore, "we did not trap any borers in other parts of the state. It is possible that the insect has spread to other areas, however, so in all likelihood, we will survey the state again in 2010."
EAB larvae kill ash trees, as they feed on the inner bark, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. Damage caused by EAB to landowners, nursery and forest products industries is estimated in the millions of dollars. Since 2002, EAB has spread to 13 states and killed millions of ash trees, according to the announcement.
EAB was first discovered in Fairfax County in 2003. Soon after, an eradication project was undertaken. Subsequent surveys indicated the eradication had been successful. Then in July 2008, EAB was again discovered in Arlington and Fairfax counties. VDACS and the USDA then established a quarantine to regulate the movement of articles capable of transporting EAB. The quarantine currently applies to Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington, Fauquier, and Prince William counties and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park.
Additional information about the EAB is available at www.emeraldashborer.info.
Questions about EAB activity in Loudoun County may be directed to the Loudoun County Master Gardener Volunteers Help Desk at 703-771-5150.
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