LA CROSSE, WI (WTAQ) – Forestry workers in La Crosse have surpassed the halfway point of removing virtually all of the city’s ash trees, due to the presence of the emerald ash borer.
WKBT-TV says about 2,500 trees have been cut down so far, and another 2,000 are on the chopping block in the next few years. Officials say healthier species of trees will take their place.
The ash borer struck the La Crosse area in 2011, in one of the state’s first large infestations. City crews started removing ash trees on the outskirts of town, whether they’ve been infected or not.
They’ve been removing about 50 trees a week — and they’re now working in La Crosse neighborhoods.
Officials say they’re trying to work as quickly as possible, because it takes about 30 percent more effort to remove a dead tree infected with the emerald ash borer. That’s because the limbs fall before the tree does.
Officials say they expect to save about 500 ash trees, which are being treated with a protectant.
(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)