EAB confirmed in Lake Forest

By LINDA BLASER lblaser@pioneerlocal.com

An emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation was discovered in Lake Forest in the parkway ash trees on June Terrace, the Illinois Department of Agriculture confirmed March 30.

With an ash tree population of nearly 11 percent, city officials are concerned about the potential impact the infestation may have on the city's trees.

"It is very important for Lake Forest residents to be vigilant in inspecting their ash trees for this pest," said City Forester Peter Gordon.

Symptoms of EAB include:

•Canopy dieback

•D-shaped exit holes

•Shoots sprouting from the tree trunk

•S-shaped larval galleries underneath the bark

The EAB is a small, metallic green, non-native invasive pest whose larvae feast on the trunks of ash trees.

Additional information and photos of the adult EAB can be viewed on the City's web site at www.cityoflakeforest.com.

The only guaranteed method to control EAB is to remove the host tree or trees. Ash tree owners considering chemical treatment options to avoid removing their trees should weigh the value of the tree against the cost of treatment.

Residents are encouraged to work with a licensed arborist to develop a management plan for their ash trees.

The Lake Forest City Council will discuss options to manage emerald ash borer at its next meeting, 7:30 p.m. April 20 in City Hall, 220 E. Deerpath in the second-floor City Council chambers. The meeting will be broadcast live on cable Channel 17 or via video on the city's Web site.