Efforts get underway this week to see if the Emerald Ash Borer is in Wisconsin.
The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection will begin surveying ash trees in 44 counties this week to look for signs of the beetle. It's been found in neighboring states already, but there's been no sign in Wisconsin yet. DATCP pest specialist Mick Skwarok says they're not sure what to expect, but there are concerns that EAB may have made its way into Wisconsin.
Skwarok says they'll be cutting down over 1,200 ash trees during the next several months to check for signs of an infestation. If the beetle is found, he says that area will likely be quarantined. That would prevent Ash wood from being transported out of that area.
Skwarok says it's only a matter of time before the insect is found in Wisconsin. However, finding it early will improve the chances of being able to contain an infestation.
Survey work will begin in Brown, Dane, and Kenosha counties and will be finished by next April.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (MP3 1:00)
