Killer Bugs

The emerald ash borer is a non-native invasive insect that has already killed tens of millions of ash trees in North America. Susceptible trees in N.C. are green ash, white ash, Carolina ash, pumpkin ash, & white fringe tree. This beetle can spread naturally (by flying) or via accidental, human-facilitated movement of infested wood (firewood, ash material). A federal quarantine regulating the movement of ash material was lifted in January 2021.

Counties are confirmed positive when a specimen is verified. Counties declared positive based on signs/symptoms are: Alexander, Burke, Clay, Gaston,Henderson, Polk, Randolph, Rutherford, Union, & Wilkes (Source: NC Forest Service)