Simple steps can help slow the spread of emerald ash borer

The State of New Hampshire is reminding residents and visitors of the steps they can take to help slow the spread of emerald ash borer within the state.

EAB was first identified in New Hampshire in 2013 and can be found in seven counties. Slowing its spread is a vital component of keeping the state’s forests healthy, which, in turn, affects the economy, including forestry and recreation.

EAB can be found in both ash logs and firewood. Anyone moving ash logs within New Hampshire should confirm the logs are not infested, ship logs only to mills willing to debark them immediately, or process the logs prior to June 1. Shipment of ash logs out of New Hampshire to neighboring Maine requires a federal compliance agreement.

Firewood that includes or may include ash wood should not be transported more than five miles within the state, be seasoned at its place of origin for 12 months, or be delivered and burned between September 1 and June 1. New Hampshire firewood requires a state-issued variance, exemption or federal compliance agreement before it can be moved to Maine or Vermont. Ash mulch or chips of any size can be moved throughout the year within New Hampshire.

A non-native beetle, EAB larvae kill ash trees by feeding on their inner bark, disrupting the trees’ ability to transport water and nutrients. Signs of infestation include ash trees whose bark has been removed by birds – called “blonding” – s-shaped patterns under the bark and D-shaped exit holes.

Anyone who suspects that they may have found EAB should report their findings to nhbugs.org or call 800-444-8978.

More information related to EAB characteristics and outbreak locations, as well assteps that residents, visitors, municipalities and industries can take to help control the spread of EAB, can also be found at nhbugs.org.

Part of the N.H. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the Division of Forests and Lands protects and promotes the value provided by trees and forests. For more information about the Division of Forests and Lands and the work of its Forest Protection Bureau, visit nhdfl.org or call 603-271-2214.