The Liberty Tree Board will present an informational session on June 17 at 7 p.m. following the confirmation of multiple infestations of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in Liberty.
The session will include a short presentation by Chris Veach with the Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City on how to identify and respond to EAB. The session will be held at the Liberty Community Center.
“Homeowners need to become informed about EAB before major infestation occurs,” Tree Board President, Ed Bowers said. “Most people don’t even know if they have an ash tree in their yard, much less how to decide what to do about Emerald Ash Borers.”
The session is aimed to provide a better understanding of the options when preparing for the arrival of EAB. Attendees will learn how to identify an ash tree and will have a hands-on look at samples of EAB-infested trees.
“All ash trees in Liberty will succumb to the borer in the next few years if left untreated,” according to Chris Wilson, Liberty Parks and Open Space Manager. “Various treatment options exist, but they vary in cost, effectiveness and potential environmental toxicity.”
The City of Liberty is implementing a multi-year EAB Management Plan for the 220 ash trees that are within the right-of-way along streets. Ultimately, the majority of these ash trees will be removed and replaced. Larger ash trees in good condition will be treated with the bioinsecticide TreeAzin. The City began using insecticidal treatments on select trees in parks last May.
To learn more about EAB, signs and symptoms of infestation, and how to plan ahead for its inevitable arrival, visit ci.liberty.mo.us/EAB.