LOWESVILLE—A tiny invasive beetle brought the once-noble population of Virginia’s loftiest hardwoods to its knees.

Since its 2008 identification in the U.S., the emerald ash borer has killed millions of ash trees across the U.S. and is likely now in every Virginia community.

Without protective measures, all native species of ash trees are nearly guaranteed to be infested and killed by the emerald ash borer, contributing to an ongoing loss of an ecological icon, plus billions of dollars in property damage and threats to public safety.

Applications are now open for the Virginia Department of Forestry Emerald Ash Borer Cost-Share Program, which offers financial assistance for protecting ash trees from the emerald ash borer. Starting in 2018, the cost-share program, supported by Virginia invasive species funding, has reimbursed the costs for more than 2,400 ash treatments statewide. Landowners and organizations can apply for the program until June 13.

Amanda Conrad, DOF forest health program coordinator, said ash trees are commonly found in yards and lining roads.

“Left untreated, these trees will become infected by emerald ash borer and die, posing a significant risk to public safety,” she said.

Infested trees become brittle and prone to breakage, which could be dangerous if ash trees are growing near homes, roads, parks or utility structures.

Farmers and landowners also are impacted—by both property damage and loss of the beneficial species.

“I know a lot a farmers who had them fall on fences,” said Mark Campbell, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation membership & field services director based in Nelson County. “Ash trees have a fair amount of limbs that will shatter and drop if the tree is standing dead. But I don’t know of too many farms that have living ash trees around anymore.”

The responsibility of preserving a beloved ash tree is up to the landowner or locality, he noted.

The best way to save ash trees is treatment with systemic insecticides by a certified applicator, which protects the trees for up to two years. To help with costs, DOF offers 70% in cost-share for eligible landowners, nonprofits, educational institutions, homeowners associations and organizations, including municipalities. A DOF forester must first assess the trees prior to treatment.

Learn more and apply for cost-share program details or find your forester on the DOF website.

Media: Contact Amanda Conrad, DOF communications, at 434-365-8223; or Campbell at 804-366-3858.