Emerald Ash Borer Found In SW Washington

The Washington State Department of Agriculture has confirmed emerald ash borer in Vancouver, marking the first confirmed detection of the destructive invasive insect in the Evergreen state. The metallic-green beetle attacks all true ash trees, including Oregon ash, Washington’s only native ash species.

State officials warn an untreated infestation could kill 90 to 100 percent of a community’s ash trees within 10 to 12 years.

WSDA said the borer was discovered by two citizens who spotted it on their windshield August 3rd. They reported and submitted the specimen, which USDA confirmed as emerald ash borer Wednesday.

“We anticipated it would only be a matter of time before emerald ash borer arrived in our state,” WSDA Pest Program Manager Sven Spichiger said. “This is yet another example of how alert, observant members of the public help us detect new, invasive pests.”

Officials urge residents not to transport firewood, stop planting new ash trees, and report suspected sightings.

“This is deeply unfortunate, but we knew the emerald ash borer would arrive here, and we’ve been preparing for it,” Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove said. “Please use our shared resources to educate yourselves and heed the recommendations to slow the spread of this destructive pest.”

WSDA said there has never been a successful effort to eradicate emerald ash borer.

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