KAUKAUNA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Emerald Ash Borers are now infesting Ash Trees in Northeast Wisconsin.
The invasive, ash tree-killing insect from Asia is making its way up the state.
Experts say the Fox Valley is in “peak infestation” right now.
“Yeah you’re probably looking at an entire extinction of a whole species of tree,” said Adam Pashouwer, Arborist with Jason’s Tree Service, a division of Lowney’s Landscaping.
Pashouwer says this year alone, Wisconsin will lose several million ash trees.
“As that beetle, the larva kills it underneath; it essentially dries the tree up from the top down,” said Pashouwer, “You’ll want to look up and see small chips and holes from where woodpeckers are chipping away at the bark and eating the larva underneath.”
Or if you’re not seeing as many leaves on top.
The insects will make the ash tree branches brittle and weak in the wind, which can be a hazard.
The cost to take down an ash tree varies. If it’s close to your house and extra equipment is needed, it could cost a couple thousand dollars.
If it’s standing alone, it could cost only a couple of hundred dollars.
“Somewhere in the range of $50,000 in staff time to take down these park trees,” said Kaukauna’s Director of Public Works and City Engineer, John Neumeier.
He says the city has cut down more than 75 ash trees due to the Ash Borer infestation.
“There are a significant number, probably in the range of 40 more trees,” said Neumeier.
2017 drone video of Grignon Mansion in Kaukauna was surrounded by ash trees.
Now the landscape looks totally different. Rows of stumps are all that’s left after every tree was infected and then removed.
Neumeier says although some areas might look bare, Kaukauna will re-plant to make up for the lost trees.
To learn more about Emerald Ash Borer CLICK HERE.
Door County is also severely infested.
Arborists say the insects fly and stick to vehicles.
Ash trees around major highways and train tracks will be completely wiped out.
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