Caledonia, N.Y.---For eight years a tiny pest has created major problems for ash trees from Michigan to New York.
The Emerald Ash Borer is a tiny beetle--commonly found in Asian countries--that has spread throughout 15 states and sits less than 20 miles from Rochester according to the Department of Environmental Conservation.
The Borer has been spotted in Caledonia, Livingston County, as well as Ulster County and Greene County.
The beetle feeds on ash trees, which make up seven percent of New York State trees according to the D.E.C.
More than 8,600 traps have been set up statewide to survey the Borer's movement according to D.E.C. Forester Mark Gooding.
He added that the bugs only travel about five miles per year, but are gaining ground thanks in part to those transporting firewood for long distances.
The bugs have a brown, gold, green or red coloring and can be seen between June and August according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
They are small--less than the size of a penny, but do plenty of damage.
"It basically girdles the tree and stops the flow of nutrients and water," said Gooding.
Within two to five years--the insects can destroy an ash tree.
The State D.E.C. Recommends that consumers purchase only local firewood to help prevent the spread of this insect.
If the insect or traces of it are spotted, you are asked to contact the D.E.C. at 866-322-4512.
