The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive, non-native wood boring beetle that feeds on the cambium (inner bark) of ash trees. The beetle is responsible for the loss of tens of millions of trees in the state of Michigan. Native to China, the EAB is a slender, elongated (1/2 inch long and 1/8 inch wide) metallic green beetle. The EAB larvae causes the primary damage to ash trees, as they feed on the cambium, thereby disrupting the tree's ability to transport food and nutrients.
It is unknown how the beetle arrived in the United States, but it is likely that it was found in solid-wood packing material that is used in cargo ships. The EAB has been reported in 11 states, including Illinois, and has been found in 80 communities around the Chicagoland area alone.
The Village of Cary has made a continued commitment to protect and enhance our urban forests. The Village's dedication can be observed throughout our municipal tree policies (Chapter 12.20 of the Village's Municipal Code), our policy to protect existing hardwood trees from new developments and our continued status as a "Tree City USA" community.