Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Washington State, Threatening Ash Tree Populations
The emerald ash borer (EAB), a highly destructive invasive beetle, has been confirmed in Washington state. State officials detected the pest after two individuals reported spotting the insect on their windshield in Vancouver in early August. This marks the first confirmed presence of EAB in Washington. Sven Spichiger, pest program manager at the Washington State Department of Agriculture, noted that the arrival of the EAB was anticipated. The metallic green beetle feeds on wood and has been responsible for the destruction of over 100 million ash trees across the United States since its initial detection two decades ago. All native ash species are vulnerable to infestation. Without effective management, municipalities could face a 90% to 100% loss of their ash trees within 10 to 12 years of an initial infestation, according to a Department of Natural Resources analysis. In response, the Department of Agriculture has initiated a firewood quarantine, prohibiting the transportation of untreated firewood within... 
