Emerald Ash Borer

The emerald ash borer (EAB) is an invasive borer native to northeast Asia. In recent years, it has wreaked havoc on ash trees across the United States. What does this mean for us? One in six trees in Denver are ash trees and, if we do nothing, it’s just a matter of time before they’ll all be devoured by the emerald ash borer. But who wants to be a Debbie Downer when you can Be A Smart Ash? Learn how you can protect your ash and our urban canopy by identifying, treating and replacing Denver’s ash trees.

1. There are no natural controls to halt the feast of the  emerald ash borer, which is foreign to these parts. But EAB treatments, when properly administered by a licensed tree professional, are 90% effective. 
2. The city will take care of its own—namely ash trees located on city property, including parks. Residents will be expected to do the same, taking responsibility for any ash trees on their personal property and in the adjacent public rights-of-way. 
3. If you decide to replace your ash tree with one of these City-Forester-approved trees—some of which you might even be able to  get for free—you’ll help maintain the long-term stability of our urban canopy.