News Release – 6 February 2006

Feb. 6, 2006 – Stamford, Conn. – The Emerald Ash Borer has been an unwelcome guest in the United States for several years and is a serious threat to the beautiful ash trees that shade the neighborhoods and line the streets of many U.S. neighborhoods.

In their larval stage, these beetles bore into trees causing thinning of the tree canopy and branch dieback. While it is true that in most cases infested trees die after three to four years, property owners should not give up hope for their ash trees.

Significant research has and is currently being conducted to yield treatment options. In Michigan, where it’s suspected that the borer has been present for at least five years, a study by Michigan State University has proven that there are valid treatments. Tests indicate that although severely infested trees typically cannot be saved, attacks on healthy trees can be prevented.

Leading tree care provider Bartlett Tree Experts is working to preserve trees and help educate property owners on this pest. “It is extremely important that property owners understand what this pest can do, how it spreads, and what can be done to prevent loss of this important component of our urban forest,” said Dr. Bruce Fraedrich, a scientist at The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories.

At these laboratories, Fraedrich, along with other scientists, has developed specific treatment recommendations for managing Emerald Ash Borer. Bartlett offices in many states with this pest have already implemented these recommendations and are successfully preserving trees. Periodic inspections, prompt removal of infested trees and annual treatments with the appropriate insecticides are just part of this success.

Fraedrich urges property owners to remember that each tree is different and should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. “In many ways, trees are like humans and pets. Each tree responds differently to stressors and the prescribed treatments,” stated Fraedrich. “By assessing trees individually, we can determine how to best treat them. Or, if removal is the only option, we can do so in a way to help protect other trees on the property from the same fate.”

About Bartlett Tree Experts

The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company was founded in 1907 by Francis A. Bartlett and is the world’s leading scientific tree and shrub care company. The organisation’s current chairman, Robert A. Bartlett Jr., represents the third generation of Bartlett family management. Bartlett has offices in 25 U.S. states, Canada, Ireland and Great Britain. Services include pruning, integrated pest and disease management, soil analysis and management, cabling and bracing, tree lightning protection systems and tree/stump removal. Its corporate offices are located in Stamford, Connecticut. To find out more, visit the company’s web site at www.bartlett.com or call 1-877-BARTLETT (227-8538).