~ The City of Colorado Springs has confirmed the presence of emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive insect that poses a serious threat to the city's ash trees. This discovery marks a significant milestone, but city officials want to assure residents that they have been preparing for this possibility and are ready to take action.

According to City Forester Matthew Puckett, "While this confirmation is not unexpected, it is an important reminder that protecting our community's tree canopy will require a coordinated effort." The City has been proactive in preparing for the arrival of EAB and is now asking residents to join in their efforts by learning about the insect and understanding its impact on both public and private property.

Originally from Asia, emerald ash borer is a small metallic green beetle that has already killed millions of ash trees across North America. The insect attacks ash trees by tunneling beneath the bark, disrupting their ability to transport water and nutrients. If left untreated, infested trees typically die within a few years.

In Colorado Springs, one out of every five trees is an ash tree. If EAB is not managed properly, it has the potential to kill almost all of these trees within 15 years. This would result in a loss of over $190 million in ecological benefits such as air purification, stormwater management, and carbon sequestration.

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To combat this threat, the City has developed an Emerald Ash Borer Management and Response Plan. This plan outlines strategies for monitoring, treating, strategically removing affected trees when necessary, replacing them with new ones, and educating the public about EAB. The main goal is to prioritize public safety while also preserving as much of the valuable tree canopy as possible.

While the City will be responsible for managing ash trees on public property, it is important for private property owners to also take action. Residents who believe they have ash trees are encouraged to learn how to identify them and monitor for signs of infestation. They can also consult a certified arborist for advice on treatment options.

To help residents better understand the threat of EAB, the City has launched a public awareness campaign. Information and resources can be found on the City's website, including how to identify ash trees, recognize signs of infestation, and frequently asked questions. The Emerald Ash Borer Management and Response Plan is also available for review.

The City will continue to work closely with the Colorado State Forest Service, the Colorado Department of Agriculture, and other regional partners to monitor EAB activity and provide updates as new information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take action to protect Colorado Springs' urban forest from this destructive insect.

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