Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), an ash tree-killing insect from Asia, was first identified in Ohio in 2003. The pest has since spread to all other parts of Ohio and beyond. A significant portion of trees in the 1,000 acres of parkland managed by the Park District are from the ash family.
An ongoing effort is underway to identify all dead and diseased ash trees found in each of the 50 parks that we manage. We have developed a proactive response to identify and remove hazardous ash trees in the parks’ public areas such as picnic areas, trails, athletic fields and parking lots, or near roadways, structures and property boundary lines. This year, we have removed approximately 400 EAB infested trees. Because ash trees make up a significant percentage of our forest canopies, this number accounts for a small fraction of the total number of ash trees that will be impacted by the EAB infestation.
Safe parks are always our priority. We strongly encourage park visitors to proceed with caution when visiting any park area with standing timber. Please avoid areas where active forestry activities are in progress. Every attempt will be made to keep trails open and clear during these activities, but some closures will be necessary for your safety.
We will continue to monitor ongoing EAB research and control efforts. Moving forward, we aspire to minimize environmental disturbance and economic impact while keeping the safety of our parks as a top priority. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding the Centerville-Washington Park District EAB program.