Fri Sep 20 07:41:40 UTC 2024: ## Emerald Ash Borers Found in Lakewood for the First Time
**LAKEWOOD, Colo.** – The invasive emerald ash borer beetle has been discovered in Lakewood, Colorado, marking the first confirmed sighting in the city. The beetle, known for devastating ash trees, was found in a small area of central Lakewood and later confirmed by Colorado State University Extension in Jefferson County.
Emerald ash borers target ash tree species, which make up 15% of urban trees. They eventually kill the trees, including popular varieties like the ‘autumn purple ash’. While this is a new discovery for Lakewood, emerald ash borers were first spotted in Colorado in 2013 in Boulder County and have since been found in several other counties.
Lakewood Forestry Supervisor Luke Killoran encourages residents to inspect their ash trees for signs of infestation, such as D-shaped exit holes, bark splits, S-shaped tunnels, thinning canopy, abnormal shoots, smaller leaves, and woodpecker activity.
Insecticide treatments can protect ash trees from the beetles, but the effectiveness depends on the tree’s size and health. Large, healthy trees are more likely to benefit from treatment than younger, unhealthy, or poorly located trees.
Residents are advised to contact a certified arborist licensed by the Colorado Department of Agriculture to evaluate their trees and provide treatment recommendations. More information about emerald ash borers and tree care resources can be found on the CSU Extension website.
First Piper 