Wood-Borer Threatens State’s Ash Trees

Virginia’s ash trees are being attacked by a non-native wood-boring beetle from Asia and now 187-million trees in the state are at risk. Virginia Forest Health officials say the beetle was first detected in Detroit in 2002 and has spread to 15 states including Virginia. They say in addition to the ecological damage caused by the beetle, it will have a significant economic impact because the ash tree is used to produce baseball bats, flooring, cabinets and tool handles. Doctor Asaro says the Department of Forestry is working with several other state agencies, private businesses and the federal government to slow the spread of the beetle called the “emerald ash borer.”