EAB Confirmed in York County

An emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation has been confirmed in western York County, state officials announced on Sept. 12. While not unexpected, it follows by four months Maine’s first confirmed outbreak in May, in the far northern Aroostook County town of Madawaska, subsequently detected in Grand Isle as well, in August.

Earlier in September, adult EAB were detected in two traps, in Acton and Lebanon. Maine Forest Service employees are now conducting ground surveys to gauge the location and size of the latest outbreak, which means EAB is approaching on two fronts. Immediate controls on wood movement in York County will be imposed as soon as ground surveys are completed.

Since its arrival in Michigan in 2002, this invasive insect has spread rapidly in the U.S. and Canada. Maine is the 35th state with documented outbreaks. Tree mortality can be expected within two or three years in affected areas. 

For more information about EAB click here.