A type of an invasive insect called Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has recently been discovered in Hamilton County. The insect that is responsible for destroying ash trees was recognized and confirmed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Its discovery in Hamilton County attracted concerns since it is not nearby the supposedly already quarantined areas of East Tennessee. It was verified that at least 12 trees that were next to the rail ways in Chattanooga and in an Emerald Ash Borer trap placed in park near the rail both came out positive for the invasive insect.
Gray Haun Plant Certification administrator for TDA said to The Chattanoogan that they could not conclude for sure whether the infestation came from Chattanooga, however, surveys on detection points that it was more likely that it started near a railway hub. Since EAB can pass through on unprocessed ash materials and firewood, it was probable that wood products being transported using railways arrived near the location.
First found in 2010 in Tennessee in a truck stop along I-40 in Knox County, EAB has also been detected in 17 other counties in Tennessee alone. Along with Hamilton county, the 17 other counties were all place under federal and state quarantines since the discovery.
The quarantine prevents the transportation of ash nursery stock, ash timber, firewood, and other wood materials that might cause infestation of the EAB. Local residents can now observe that surveys are being expanded, and that any signs of EAB should be reported immediately to TDA.
Haun expressed his gratitude towards Gene Hyde, Chattanooga’s City Forester who has been extending his support to help find the EAB. He was hoping that other cities would also take the same initiative and follow Gene’s vigilance to help stop not only the economic damages, but also the environmental impact of the pests.
