![Adult emerald ash borer. Photo Credit: Dr. Matt Bertone, NC State University: https://www.ces.ncsu.edu/profile/matt-bertone/](https://clemsonblog.wpenginepowered.com/fnr/files/2021/08/BertoneEAB2highres-300x200.jpg)
https://www.ces.ncsu.edu/profile/matt-bertone/
The emerald ash borer (EAB) was first detected in South Carolina in August 2017. This invasive species is now present throughout Eastern North America and has been found in six Upstate counties (Anderson, Greenville, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg, and York). EAB attacks all species of ash trees (Fraxinus species) and feeding by their larvae will often result in tree death. As of January 14, 2021, this pest and all associated material will no longer be federally regulated. This means that any formerly regulated material (e.g., ash logs, firewood) can now be freely moved within the state and within previously infested areas. This decision was made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) and enacted after a lengthy review and comment period. As there appears to be
![Map of county EAB detections in North America Photo Credit: USDA APHIS: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/emerald_ash_b/ downloads/MultiState.pdf](https://clemsonblog.wpenginepowered.com/fnr/files/2021/08/MultiState1jan21-300x182.jpg)
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/emerald_ash_b/
downloads/MultiState.pdf
little stopping further expansion of this pest’s range, resources will now be devoted to other management and containment activities. You can still protect high-value ash trees on your property, as several chemical treatment methods are very effective (e.g., emamectin benzoate, an often-used active ingredient, can provide up to three years of treatment). For more information on the emerald ash borer in South Carolina, contact Clemson Regulatory Services ( https://www.clemson.edu/public/regulatory/index.html ).
This article was originally featured in the Winter 2021 Version of CU in The Woods newsletter.
Author(s)
Dave Coyle, Cooperative Extension, Forestry and Wildlife Specialist
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