Emerald Ash Borer beetle present in 14 N.J. towns, 6 counties

The emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive ash-tree killing beetle, is now active in 14 towns spread across six counties in New Jersey.

Monitoring by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) as well as homeowners has confirmed the beetles’ presence in Bergen County, Burlington County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Somerset County and Monmouth County.

The department has countered the invasion with releases of biocontrol parasitoids, provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which will suppress the beetle population. The parasitoids have so far been deployed in Bridgewater, Hillsborough, Franklin and Ewing.

“Just as emerald ash borer has swiftly spread through other states in the nation, it has now moved to New Jersey and we must prepare for the impact of this highly destructive invasive pest, which could lead to the death of ash trees,” New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher said. “We ask that towns and counties act now to put plans in place to respond to the beetle.”

Local governments and concerned citizens can find more information on the EAB on the New Jersey Emerald Ash Borer website, which includes information on how to protect ash trees.