Community Strategies: How Neighborhoods Can Slow Emerald Ash Borer Spread Naturally

Scattered individual efforts prove largely ineffective because EAB adults can fly up to half a mile, easily moving between properties with untreated trees. This makes comprehensive neighborhood approaches essential for meaningful protection of your community’s tree canopy.

Natural Management Vs. Chemical Treatment: Understanding Your Community’s Options

Before developing your neighborhood strategy, it’s essential to understand the full spectrum of EAB management approaches available to communities, including both natural and conventional methods. While chemical treatments offer quick protection, natural management provides sustainable long-term benefits worth considering.

Factor	Natural Management	Chemical Treatment
Initial Cost	Moderate ($0-500 per community)	High ($100-300 per tree annually)
Long-term Cost	Low (diminishes over time)	High (recurring treatments)
Effectiveness Timeline	2-5 years for full establishment	Immediate protection
Environmental Impact	Minimal to beneficial	Potential non-target effects
Implementation Complexity	Moderate (requires coordination)	Low (individual tree treatment)
Community Acceptance	Generally high	Variable (chemical concerns)

Many successful communities implement integrated management approaches that combine multiple strategies. For high-value specimen trees, targeted chemical treatment may make sense, while broader natural management can protect the overall canopy sustainably.

In the context of EAB, “natural management” encompasses biological control (beneficial insects), cultural practices (proper tree care), mechanical methods (trap trees), and strategic removal/replacement. These methods work with natural systems rather than against them, creating long-term resilience while minimizing chemical spread between neighboring yards.

Community Assessment: How to Evaluate Your Neighborhood’s EAB Situation

Before implementing any management strategy, your community needs to conduct a thorough assessment of your current EAB situation using these five key evaluation areas.

Step 1: Conduct a basic neighborhood ash tree inventory

Start by mapping all ash trees in your neighborhood, noting size, condition, and location. This doesn’t require professionals – organize volunteer teams by block, with simple identification cards showing ash leaf patterns (compound leaves with 5-11 leaflets) and diamond-pattern bark. Free apps like OpenTreeMap or i-Tree can help volunteers record data consistently.

Step 2: Assess current infestation levels

Train volunteers to identify key EAB signs: D-shaped exit holes (1/8 inch wide), S-shaped galleries under loose bark, crown dieback (dying from top down), and epicormic sprouting (unusual growth from trunk or branches). Learning to recognize these signs is crucial for effective natural control in residential landscapes. Mark each tree’s status as “No signs,” “Early infestation,” or “Advanced infestation” to prioritize response.

Step 3: Identify high-priority preservation trees

Document trees with special value to the community – large specimen trees, those providing critical shade to homes or common areas, historical trees, and those in prominent locations. This helps allocate limited resources where they’ll have maximum impact.

Step 4: Evaluate community resources

Assess available volunteer capacity, funding sources (HOA reserves, municipal programs, grants), and local expertise. Document potential partners such as master gardeners, cooperative extension offices, or nearby universities that could provide technical assistance.

Step 5: Document neighborhood tree canopy goals

Define what success looks like for your community, whether preserving a certain percentage of existing ash, maintaining overall canopy coverage, or transitioning to a more diverse urban forest. Clear goals help measure progress and maintain community support.

This assessment creates the foundation for selecting the most appropriate natural management strategies for your specific situation and monitoring your success over time.

Strategy 1: Establishing Community-Wide Biological Control Programs

Biological control – using natural enemies to manage pest populations – represents one of the most sustainable long-term strategies communities can implement to slow EAB spread. My experience working with several neighborhood associations has shown that while biological control requires patience, it offers the best long-term solution with minimal ongoing costs.

The science behind this approach involves specialized parasitoid wasps that specifically target EAB. These tiny, non-stinging wasps (Oobius agrili, Spathius agrili, and Tetrastichus planipennisi) lay eggs in or on EAB eggs or larvae. When the wasp larvae hatch, they consume the developing EAB, helping to regulate populations naturally.

According to recent USDA research, parasitism rates range from 30-80% depending on the species and local conditions, with rates improving over time as populations establish. This represents significant control potential without chemical application.

Implementation Steps for Communities

1. Contact your state’s Department of Agriculture or forestry office about biocontrol programs. Many states offer parasitoid wasps at no cost to qualifying communities.
2. Select appropriate release sites using these criteria:
   • Areas with confirmed but relatively low EAB populations
   • Sites with multiple ash trees of various sizes
   • Locations with some canopy cover (parasitoids prefer semi-shaded areas)
   • Sites with public access for monitoring
3. Develop a monitoring protocol to track establishment. Volunteer teams should check release areas every 1-2 months during growing season, looking for parasitoid presence and EAB population changes.
4. Be patient – biological control takes 2-5 years to fully establish but provides long-term sustainable management.

Beyond introduced parasitoids, communities can enhance native predator activity, particularly woodpeckers. These birds can consume up to 85% of EAB larvae in some areas. Installing woodpecker nest boxes in ash-heavy areas and preserving dead trees where safe to do so (away from structures and paths) creates natural control centers.

Biological control works best as a cornerstone of integrated management, particularly when combined with early detection networks that help track both the pest and its natural enemies.

Strategy 2: Creating Neighborhood EAB Monitoring Networks

Early detection through coordinated community monitoring can significantly reduce the impact of EAB by allowing for targeted intervention before widespread damage occurs. Community-based monitoring networks leverage more eyes on more trees, creating a powerful early warning system.

Setting Up Your Monitoring Network

1. Establish a block captain system with one volunteer responsible for 1-2 blocks or 20-30 homes. This person coordinates monitoring in their area and serves as the point of contact for reporting.
2. Develop a monitoring schedule with heightened vigilance during peak adult emergence periods (typically May-July, though this varies by region). Understanding seasonal timing is critical for effective natural intervention.
3. Create simple data collection tools – a basic form should include:
   • Location of tree (address and position on property)
   • Approximate size (diameter at breast height)
   • Signs observed (exit holes, bark splits, canopy dieback)
   • Photos if possible
   • Date of observation
4. Establish confirmation protocols for suspected infestations. Train several volunteers to serve as second-opinion verifiers before reporting to authorities.
5. Implement a reporting system that flows from block captains to a neighborhood coordinator, who then reports to appropriate agencies.

Free technology tools can dramatically improve volunteer coordination. Consider using:

• Google Forms for data collection
• WhatsApp or group text messaging for rapid communication
• Google Maps with shared editing for visual mapping
• iNaturalist for photo documentation and potential expert verification

Regular training sessions (2-3 per year) help maintain volunteer engagement and improve detection accuracy. Invite local extension agents to conduct these workshops, combining learning with community building.

The data collected through monitoring networks informs where to focus treatment efforts, measures the success of management strategies, and helps track the spread of both EAB and its natural enemies.

Strategy 3: Implementing Trap Tree Methods for Early Detection and Population Reduction

Trap trees serve a dual purpose in community EAB management: enhancing early detection capabilities while simultaneously reducing local EAB populations through targeted management. This strategy leverages the beetle’s natural attraction to stressed ash trees.

The scientific principle is straightforward: EAB adults preferentially attack stressed ash trees, which emit specific volatile compounds. By intentionally stressing selected “sacrifice” trees, communities can concentrate EAB activity where it can be monitored and controlled.

Implementing the Trap Tree Method

1. Select appropriate sacrifice trees using these criteria:
   • Smaller ash trees (6-12 inches diameter)
   • Trees already scheduled for removal
   • Trees in less prominent locations
   • Trees on public property or with owner permission
   • 1-2 trap trees per acre of ash coverage
2. Girdle selected trees in early spring (April-May) by removing a 6-inch band of bark and cambium all the way around the trunk at chest height. This stresses the tree and makes it highly attractive to egg-laying females.
3. Monitor trap trees closely throughout the summer, checking for:
   • Adult beetles on the trunk and branches
   • Fresh exit holes
   • Egg-laying sites
4. Remove and process trap trees in late fall or winter, before the next spring emergence. This eliminates the developing larvae inside.

Proper processing is critical: trap trees must be chipped to pieces smaller than 1 inch or kiln-dried to prevent spreading the very infestation you’re trying to control.

Research studies show trap trees can capture up to 10 times more EAB than surrounding trees, making them highly effective population sinks. Communities in Michigan have successfully used this method to identify early infestations and reduce population pressure on valued trees.

Community communication is essential when implementing this method, as residents may question why seemingly healthy trees are being intentionally damaged. Clear signage on trap trees and neighborhood education help build understanding and support.

Strategy 4: Supporting Tree Health Through Natural Cultural Practices

Healthy trees can better resist and survive EAB infestations, making community-wide cultural practices a vital component of any natural management strategy. While proper tree care won’t prevent infestation entirely, it can extend tree survival and complement other natural management methods.

Essential Cultural Practices for Ash Trees

Proper Mulching: Organize community mulching days where volunteers apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch in a ring around ash trees (keeping it 6 inches from the trunk). This conserves moisture, regulates soil temperature, and improves root function. Use wood chips, shredded bark, or composted leaves rather than dyed mulches.

Strategic Watering: During drought periods, coordinate neighborhood watering schedules for ash trees, especially those showing early signs of stress. Deep watering (10-15 gallons per diameter inch) once weekly during dry periods supports tree defense systems. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation placed at the drip line are most effective.

Soil Health Improvement: Implement community composting programs to generate organic matter for improving soil around ash trees. Apply compost in a thin layer (1/2 inch) over the root zone annually. Consider community purchases of mycorrhizal inoculants that enhance root function and nutrient uptake.

Root Zone Protection: Create community guidelines for protecting ash root zones during construction or landscaping. Prevent soil compaction, avoid trenching near trees, and minimize root disturbance within the drip line.

Proper Pruning: Train volunteer “pruning patrols” to correctly remove dead or infested branches. Prune during dormant periods (late fall through winter) to minimize stress and prevent disease spread. Always disinfect tools between trees.

Seasonal Care Calendar for Volunteer Coordination

• Spring (March-May): Mulching, soil improvement, pest monitoring setup
• Summer (June-August): Watering coordination, continued monitoring
• Fall (September-November): Light fertilization if needed, early pruning
• Winter (December-February): Major pruning work, planning for spring

When organizing volunteer workdays, emphasize safety with clear guidelines for tool use, proper lifting techniques, and working in teams. Provide basic training, first aid kits, and supervision for less experienced volunteers.

These cultural practices not only support ash trees but improve the overall urban forest resilience, setting the stage for long-term forest health beyond the immediate EAB threat.

Strategy 5: Developing a Neighborhood Ash Conservation Plan

Not all ash trees can or should be saved, making a strategic conservation plan essential for directing limited community resources toward the most valuable and viable trees. A thoughtful conservation approach maximizes ecological benefits while acknowledging the reality of limited resources.

Creating Your Neighborhood Conservation Framework

Begin by establishing a tree valuation system that objectively identifies the most important ash trees in your community. Consider these factors:

• Size and age: Larger, mature trees provide more ecosystem services and are harder to replace
• Condition: Pre-existing health issues affect treatment success
• Location value: Trees shading buildings, reducing erosion, or screening unsightly views provide higher value
• Ecosystem benefits: Trees supporting wildlife habitat or managing stormwater deserve priority
• Cultural/historical significance: Trees with community importance merit special consideration
• Diversity contribution: Uncommon ash species may warrant higher priority

Using this framework, categorize community ash trees into three tiers:

Tier 1 (High Priority Conservation)
These trees receive maximum protection efforts, potentially including targeted treatments if necessary. Typically these represent 10-20% of total ash trees and include specimen trees, those with historical value, and those providing critical environmental services.

Tier 2 (Monitor and Evaluate)
These trees receive regular monitoring and cultural care practices, with intervention decisions made as the infestation progresses. This middle category allows for adaptive management based on how the infestation and control measures develop.

Tier 3 (Gradual Replacement)
These trees are scheduled for phased removal and replacement with diverse species before severe infestation occurs. Proactive removal of lower-value ash spreads costs over time and allows for strategic replanting.

To implement this tiered approach effectively, communities need clear cost-sharing models. Options include:

• HOA-funded treatments for trees in common areas
• Cost-sharing pools where residents contribute to treating high-priority street trees
• Adopt-a-Tree programs where residents “sponsor” specific high-value trees
• Group discount arrangements with certified arborists for residents treating private trees

Formalize your conservation strategy in a written document that includes the valuation criteria, tiered categories, responsibility assignments, timeline, and budget. This creates accountability and helps maintain continuity as community leadership changes.

Strategy 6: Implementing Neighborhood Tree Diversification Initiatives

A resilient urban forest depends on diversity, making community-wide tree diversification one of the most important long-term strategies for EAB management and overall forest health. The devastation caused by EAB offers an opportunity to rebuild with greater species diversity.

The guiding principle for diversification is the 10/20/30 rule: plant no more than 10% of any species, 20% of any genus, and 30% of any family. This prevents future catastrophic losses from species-specific pests or diseases.

Native Alternatives to Consider

These native species offer similar characteristics to ash trees while supporting local ecosystems:

• Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus) – Tolerates urban conditions, attractive compound leaves
• Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) – Tough, drought-resistant with similar canopy
• American Basswood (Tilia americana) – Fast-growing with fragrant flowers
• Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) – Long-lived with strong branch structure
• American Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea) – Beautiful white flowers, compound leaves
• Black Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica) – Excellent fall color, similar size

Implementing Your Diversification Plan

1. Create a community nursery where residents can grow replacement trees from seedlings, reducing costs while building investment in the new forest.
2. Establish group purchasing programs for bulk discounts on replacement trees. Many nurseries offer 30-50% discounts for community orders of 20+ trees.
3. Organize volunteer planting days to engage the community while sharing the labor of installation. Schedule these in spring or fall for optimal tree establishment.
4. Implement a young tree care program with volunteer “tree stewards” responsible for watering and monitoring newly planted trees during their establishment period (first 2-3 years).
5. Create tree tags or signage identifying new species and their benefits to educate residents and build appreciation for the diversified canopy.

Track your diversification progress using simple metrics: species count before and after, percentage of non-ash trees, and survival rates of new plantings. Celebrate milestones with community events that build pride in the evolving urban forest.

Remember that diversification is a long-term strategy that complements immediate EAB management. The trees planted today will create the resilient canopy that protects your community from future threats.

Strategy 7: Establishing Community Wood Waste Management Protocols

Proper management of infested wood is critical to preventing EAB spread while potentially creating community resources from what would otherwise be waste. A comprehensive wood waste management protocol turns a problem into an opportunity.

The most important rule is simple: don’t move firewood. EAB can spread rapidly when infested wood is transported to new areas. Communities should establish clear protocols that keep ash wood within the local area while utilizing it productively.

Community Wood Utilization Options

1. Neighborhood lumber milling: Rent portable sawmills for community wood-processing days, converting removed ash trees into usable lumber for community projects like park benches, playground equipment, or garden beds. Kiln-drying or proper seasoning is essential to kill any remaining larvae.
2. Mulch production: Create community mulch piles from chipped ash wood (chips smaller than 1 inch will not harbor EAB). Use this mulch in community gardens, parks, and around remaining trees.
3. Artisan wood products: Connect with local woodworkers and artists who can transform ash wood into valuable products. Host community workshops to create bowls, cutting boards, or art pieces that preserve the legacy of community ash trees.
4. Biochar production: Consider community biochar-making events that convert wood waste into valuable soil amendments. This process effectively eliminates EAB while creating a product that improves community gardens.

To implement these programs, communities can create cost-sharing arrangements for equipment rental, establish volunteer coordination systems for processing events, and develop distribution protocols for the resulting products.

Successful community programs include the “Standing Proud” initiative in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where removed ash trees were transformed into public art installations, and the Milwaukee Wood Utilization program that diverted over 80% of urban wood waste from landfills while creating valuable products.

Be sure to check local regulations regarding wood movement and processing. Many states have specific requirements for handling ash wood in EAB-infested or quarantined areas. Your state’s Department of Agriculture or forestry office can provide guidance on compliance.

Strategy 8: Creating Sustainable Funding Models for Community-Based EAB Management

Effective EAB management requires sustainable funding sources, which neighborhoods can develop through several innovative approaches tailored to their specific community context. Financial sustainability ensures your EAB management effort can continue for the multiple years required for success.

Funding Options for Communities

Neighborhood Association Assessments: Many HOAs and neighborhood associations implement special assessments specifically for tree management. These typically range from $50-200 per household annually, creating a dedicated fund for tree care, removal, and replacement.

Grant Opportunities: Several foundations and agencies offer grants for community forestry initiatives:

• USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry grants
• State urban forestry grants (available in most states)
• Private foundation environmental grants
• Local community foundation neighborhood improvement grants

Cost-Sharing Frameworks: Develop formal agreements between neighbors to share costs for treatments that benefit multiple properties. These typically divide costs based on property frontage, property value, or equal shares among participating owners. Template agreements can be developed with assistance from local extension offices.

Municipal Partnerships: Many cities offer matching funds programs where they match neighborhood contributions toward urban forest management. These programs typically require formal organization and documentation of community support.

In-Kind Contribution Tracking: Document volunteer hours, equipment use, and donated materials as matching contributions for grants. Most grant programs accept in-kind contributions at standard valuation rates (typically $20-30 per volunteer hour).

Fundraising Events: Host community events specifically for tree management funding:

• Tree walks with educational components (charge registration fee)
• Neighborhood plant sales featuring native species
• Auctions of artisan items made from community ash wood
• “Adopt-a-Tree” programs where residents sponsor replacement trees

Crowdfunding Approaches: Online platforms like GoFundMe or specialized environmental crowdfunding sites can help communities raise funds for specific projects like a neighborhood-wide biological control release or a tree diversification initiative.

Creating a Sustainable Budget

Develop a multi-year budget that includes:

• Initial assessment costs
• Treatment costs for priority trees (if using targeted treatments)
• Monitoring program expenses
• Removal costs (phased over multiple years)
• Replacement tree acquisition and planting
• Educational materials and workshops

Successful communities typically dedicate 40% of their budget to immediate management, 30% to monitoring and ongoing care, and 30% to replacement and diversification. This balanced approach ensures both short-term protection and long-term forest resilience.

Strategy 9: Developing Community Education and Engagement Programs

The success of any community EAB management strategy ultimately depends on informed, engaged residents committed to collective action for the health of your neighborhood forest. A broader understanding of natural pest control principles will significantly enhance your community’s ability to implement effective management strategies.

An effective education program builds both knowledge and commitment, creating the sustained community action needed for long-term management success.

Core Educational Components

Develop informational resources covering these essential topics:

• EAB identification and lifecycle
• Signs and symptoms of infestation
• Basic ash tree identification
• Natural management methods
• Proper wood handling protocols
• Replacement tree options and care

Present this information through multiple channels to reach different audiences:

• Community workshops (quarterly)
• Printed guides and identification cards
• Email newsletters (monthly updates)
• Social media updates
• Neighborhood website resources
• Demonstration areas with educational signage

Engagement Strategies for Different Groups

For homeowners: Focus on property value protection, shade benefits, and practical guidance for their specific trees.

For renters: Emphasize community beautification, involvement opportunities, and educational benefits.

For businesses: Highlight customer experience improvements, property values, and potential for positive publicity through sponsorship.

For schools: Create citizen science opportunities, service learning projects, and curriculum connections.

Youth involvement is particularly valuable for long-term community forest health. Partner with local schools to develop monitoring programs, planting initiatives, and educational projects. Consider creating a “Junior Tree Steward” program for children to earn badges for different forest management activities.

Recognition programs maintain momentum and acknowledge contributions. These might include:

• “Tree Champion” awards for outstanding volunteers
• Recognition signs for properties participating in management
• Annual celebration events highlighting accomplishments
• Progress thermometers or visual trackers in community spaces

Regular progress reporting keeps the community engaged. Create quarterly updates showing management milestones, monitoring results, and success stories. Visual documentation (before/after photos) is particularly effective in maintaining support.

Real-World Success: Case Studies of Effective Community EAB Management

Communities across the country have successfully implemented natural EAB management strategies, providing valuable models and lessons for neighborhoods beginning their own management journey. These case studies demonstrate different approaches based on community type and resources.

Case Study 1: Arlington, Virginia – Suburban Neighborhood Association

Initial situation: The Bluemont Civic Association faced an emerging EAB infestation with approximately 300 ash trees on both public and private property. Limited municipal resources meant the community needed to develop its own response.

Approach: The association created a volunteer “Tree Steward” program with trained monitors for each street. They implemented a tiered conservation plan, protecting 15% of trees with targeted treatments, removing high-risk trees proactively, and establishing a biological control program in partnership with Virginia Tech University.

Results: After five years, the neighborhood maintained 60% of its ash canopy, successfully established parasitoid wasps, and planted over 200 diverse replacement trees. Their monitoring network has become a model for other communities in the region.

Lesson learned: “Starting before widespread damage occurred was critical to our success. Don’t wait until trees are dying to begin organizing.” – Barbara Jones, Program Coordinator

Case Study 2: Barton County, Michigan – Rural Township Initiative

Initial situation: This rural community with limited resources faced extensive ash populations across widely spaced properties, making coordination particularly challenging.

Approach: The community developed a unique “neighborhood pod” system, organizing residents by geographical clusters rather than municipal boundaries. Each pod coordinated monitoring, shared equipment for cultural practices, and developed a wood utilization program that created a small revenue stream through lumber sales and artisan products.

Results: Their wood utilization program processed over 200 ash trees, generating $15,000 that funded replacement plantings. Their innovative “pest alert” system using text messaging helped identify new infestations quickly, allowing for targeted trap tree deployment.

Lesson learned: “In rural areas, the social connections we built were as important as the technical approaches. Creating community around this challenge kept people engaged.” – Tom Miller, Township Supervisor

Case Study 3: Slinger, Wisconsin – Small Municipality

Initial situation: This community of 5,000 residents had limited municipal resources but a high percentage (35%) of ash in their urban forest.

Approach: Slinger developed a public-private partnership model where the municipality provided technical guidance, coordination, and some funding, while neighborhood groups implemented monitoring, cultural practices, and replacement planting. They also created an innovative cost-sharing program where the city matched neighborhood association funds for treatment of significant street trees.

Results: Their approach preserved 70% of priority street trees while removing and replacing lower-priority ash over a 10-year period. Their “Neighborhood Forest Fund” model has been adopted by several other Wisconsin communities.

Lesson learned: “Creating clear decision criteria for which trees to save versus remove helped prevent emotional debates and kept the program on track.” – Sarah Johnson, Urban Forester

Case Study 4: Longfellow Community, Minneapolis – Urban Neighborhood

Initial situation: This dense urban neighborhood faced losing over 1,200 ash trees, many in small yards where they provided critical shade and property value.

Approach: The community implemented a comprehensive “Save Our Shade” campaign with an innovative funding approach – they partnered with a local energy provider that contributed to treatments based on the cooling benefits ash trees provided. They also developed a phased replacement program that maintained canopy while transitioning to diverse species.

Results: Their partnership generated over $40,000 in treatment funding, while their community nursery produced more than 500 replacement trees. Five years into their program, they maintained 80% of their original canopy coverage while reducing ash dependency by half.

Lesson learned: “Finding partners with aligned interests, like energy conservation, opened funding opportunities we never expected. Look beyond traditional forestry partners.” – Michael Chen, Program Director

For communities interested in learning more from these success stories, contact information for program leaders is available through your state’s urban forestry coordinator.

Creating Your Community EAB Action Plan: A Step-by-Step Framework

With an understanding of the available strategies and real-world success stories, your community can now develop a comprehensive EAB action plan tailored to your specific needs and resources. This framework provides the structure for effective implementation.

Core Action Plan Components

1. Situation Assessment Summary: Document your current EAB status, ash population, and available resources based on your community assessment.
2. Goals and Objectives: Define specific, measurable outcomes such as “Maintain 60% of existing canopy coverage while reducing ash component to less than 20% over 10 years.”
3. Selected Strategies: Choose which of the nine strategies best fit your community’s needs and resources.
4. Timeline: Create a multi-year schedule with seasonal activities clearly defined.
5. Resource Requirements: Detail funding needs, volunteer time, equipment, and expertise required.
6. Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly assign who will coordinate each aspect of the plan.
7. Success Metrics: Define how you’ll measure progress (trees preserved, canopy coverage, species diversity, etc.).
8. Adaptation Protocols: Establish when and how the plan will be reviewed and adjusted.

Strategy Selection Framework

Not all communities need to implement all nine strategies. Use these guidelines to select the most appropriate approaches for your situation:

For communities with no detected EAB but within 10-15 miles of known infestations: Focus on monitoring networks, education programs, tree inventories, and diversification planning.

For communities with early EAB detection: Prioritize biological control establishment, trap tree methods, ash conservation planning, and treatment of high-value trees.

For communities with established infestations: Emphasize wood waste utilization, replacement strategies, funding mechanisms for removal/replacement, and maintaining cultural practices for surviving ash.

All communities should develop an education component and a funding mechanism, regardless of infestation status.

Implementation Sequencing

For most effective implementation, follow this sequence:

1. Form a core coordinating team (3-7 people)
2. Conduct community assessment and inventory
3. Develop education materials and initial community presentations
4. Establish monitoring network
5. Create conservation plan and prioritize trees
6. Implement biological control (if appropriate for your area)
7. Develop funding mechanism
8. Begin removal/replacement of low-priority ash
9. Implement cultural practices program
10. Establish wood utilization system

Plan for annual review and adaptation of your strategy based on monitoring results, new research, and community feedback. Document changes to your approach and the reasons behind them to build institutional knowledge.

Special considerations may be needed for managing EAB near fruit trees and ornamental plantings, which should be incorporated into your community plan if these are present in your neighborhood.

Beyond EAB: Building Long-Term Community Forest Resilience

While addressing the immediate EAB threat is essential, truly successful communities use this challenge as a catalyst for developing long-term urban forest resilience strategies that protect against future threats. The community organization and knowledge developed through EAB management can create lasting benefits.

Long-Term Resilience Strategies

Integrate with broader urban forestry initiatives: Expand your EAB management team into a permanent “Community Forest Committee” that addresses overall forest health, diversity, and management. Many communities find the organizational structure created for EAB provides an excellent framework for ongoing forest stewardship.

Incorporate climate adaptation considerations: As you replace trees, select species that will thrive not just in today’s climate but in projected future conditions for your region. Resources like the Climate Change Tree Atlas can help identify appropriate species.

Develop multi-pest monitoring systems: Adapt your EAB monitoring network to watch for other threats like spotted lanternfly, Asian longhorned beetle, or oak wilt. Early detection of any forest threat improves management outcomes.

Build community capacity: Invest in ongoing volunteer training, youth education programs, and leadership development to maintain forest management capability. Consider supporting interested volunteers in becoming certified arborists or master gardeners.

Advocate for supportive policies: Work with local government to develop tree protection ordinances, maintenance standards, and diversification requirements for new developments. Many communities have successfully implemented policies requiring diverse species selection in landscaping codes.

Preserve institutional knowledge: Create systems to document successful approaches, challenges overcome, and lessons learned. Digital repositories, regular written reports, and mentoring programs help transfer knowledge as community leadership changes.

Develop academic and government partnerships: Establish ongoing relationships with university extension offices, state natural resource agencies, and federal programs that provide technical assistance and potential funding.

Communities that successfully transition from EAB crisis management to long-term forest stewardship often report that the emerald ash borer, despite its destructive impact, ultimately led to healthier, more diverse, and better-managed urban forests with stronger community engagement.

Additional Resources for Community EAB Management

These carefully selected resources provide additional information, tools, and support for communities implementing natural EAB management strategies.

Government Resources:

• USDA Forest Service EAB Information: www.nrs.fs.fed.us/disturbance/invasive_species/eab/
• Emerald Ash Borer Information Network: www.emeraldashborer.info
• Your state’s Department of Natural Resources or Forestry Division

Academic and Extension Resources:

• Michigan State University EAB Resources: www.canr.msu.edu/emeraldashborer/
• Purdue Extension EAB Management: extension.entm.purdue.edu/EAB/
• University of Minnesota Extension: extension.umn.edu/tree-and-shrub-insects/emerald-ash-borers

Tools and Templates:

• i-Tree: Free urban forest analysis tools (www.itreetools.org)
• OpenTreeMap: Community tree inventory platform
• EDDMapS: Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System for invasive species

Funding Resources:

• Urban & Community Forestry Program Grants
• State-specific urban forestry grants
• Arbor Day Foundation community programs
• Alliance for Community Trees funding directory

By implementing these nine strategies and building toward long-term forest resilience, your community can effectively slow emerald ash borer spread while creating a more diverse, healthy urban forest for future generations.