New Jersey reports spread of Emerald Ash Borer to 6 counties

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture announced Oct. 8 that the emerald ash borer (EAB) is now active in six counties, where the invasive beetle species is attacking and killing the state’s ash trees.

Monitoring by the state has confirmed the beetles’ presence in Bergen, Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth and Somerset counties. The department has countered the invasion with releases of biocontrol parasitoids, provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, that will affect the beetles. 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 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.