Emerald Ash Borer Update
The impact of the Emerald Ash Borer continues to reshape our community’s urban forest, and progress is being made.
In this episode, Natural Resources Specialist Ben Humlie provides an update on the city’s ongoing Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) management efforts. With fewer than 1,000 boulevard ash trees remaining to be removed, the community is entering the final phase of a multi-year response to this invasive pest. Unfortunately, all ash trees will eventually succumb to EAB, making proactive planning essential to maintaining a healthy tree canopy.
Ben discusses how the Shade Tree Grant program will help restore our urban forest, with a total of 331 new trees being planted as a one-for-one replacement for trees removed.
The conversation also highlights broader ecological restoration work happening throughout the city, including:
- Removal of invasive buckthorn
- Stormwater pond cleanups and maintenance
- Seeding restored areas with native plants to improve habitat, water quality, and long-term sustainability
Tune in to learn how these efforts are helping rebuild a more diverse, resilient landscape for the future.