Madison Reporter

The Urban Forestry section of the Streets Division has completed this year’s treatment of public ash trees against the invasive emerald ash borer. Public ash trees are treated once every three years.

The City of Madison has 10,544 ash trees in the treatment program, including those along city streets and in Madison parks. In the 2024 treatment rotation, 3,264 ash trees were injected with emamectin benzoate to protect them against the emerald ash borer.

Treating public ash trees began in 2014. This work aligns with the EAB Plan to save as many public ash trees as possible from the invasive insect.

"Why treat ash trees? Ash trees infested with emerald ash borer insects will die. There is no recovering from it," said a spokesperson for the division. "By treating ash trees, we can prevent them from becoming infested with the ash borer and prolong their life so these mature trees can continue providing the many benefits urban trees do for our communities."

The Wisconsin Department of Trade, Agriculture, and Consumer Protection offers resources regarding the emerald ash borer. For private property owners, consulting a certified arborist may be advisable for expert advice on next steps.