Emerald Ash BorerThe town of Winamac is preparing to cut down 87 diseased ash trees. They’re victims of emerald ash borer, which is spread by an insect small enough to fit on the head of a penny. Larvae tunnel under the bark of ash trees and destroy the systems that supply the tree with water and nutrients. This eventually kills the tree. Emerald Ash Borer beetles are indigenous to Japan and are believed to have arrived in the United States about 20 years ago on wooden crates carried by ships. They have since infiltrated the northeastern quarter of the United States. The beetles can’t fly very far, but they have been spread by people moving firewood. Experts say you should never move firewood and should always make sure bark is removed. Also, make sure your wood is from local sources, and burn it where you buy it. More information about EAB can be found online at http://stopthebeetle.info/. Winamac Clerk-Treasurer Melanie Berger says the town plans to replace the 87 trees that are being cut down with another type of tree.
