A grove of ash in the Norbuck Park area is confirmed to be infested with emerald ash borer. Another infestation is in the Old Fish Hatchery south of the lake. Eastwood, Lochwood, OLH, and other neighborhoods are getting boxed in. 

The Greenbelt Guild is marking ash trees in the riparian corridor with blue tape. Since these trees are destined to perish from the emerald ash borer, we’ll plant mast from black walnuts, oaks, and pecans, and saplings when we can, beneath them to eventually fill in these spaces as the ashes die. We’re also marking to find areas with high ash concentrations, as the park department can consider thinning them to slow emerald ash borer infestation.

Using the websites below, residents should confirm whether they have ash trees and monitor for signs of infestation. Insecticide treatments have environmental costs, but may be warranted for showcase ash. Pre-emptive removal is an option. Contact a licensed arborist who is skilled in tree diseases. Plant young trees (white oak, elm, cedar elm, etc) beneath or adjacent to all ash trees.

Emerald Ash Borer

• West Fargo quick summary of ash tree identification and EAB infestation symptoms
• D Magazine very short, local impact
• Dallas Park & Recreation video, what to do if infestation suspected
• Texas Invasives statistics, firewood connection, how to report
• Texas A&M Forest Service very comprehensive

Ash Tree Identification

• Scoutcraft very detailed, includes excellent fliers
• Michigan Extension includes ash lookalikes

Key Identification Features

• Branching: Branches and buds grow directly opposite each other on the twig rather than staggering or alternating. (Only a few trees like ash, maple, and dogwood have opposite branching).
• Leaves: Each leaf is compound, featuring a central stem holding an odd number of leaflets (usually 5 to 9).
• Bark: Mature trees develop tight, interlacing ridges forming a diamond pattern. Young trees have smoother bark.
• Seeds: Female trees grow dry, paddle- or canoe-shaped single-winged seeds (samaras) that hang in dense clusters.