Author : Jade R. Bilyeu
Release : 2016
Genre : Ecology
Kind : eBook
Book Rating : /5 ( reviews)
Book Synopsis Effects of Emerald Ash Borer on Ash Tree Health and Economic Loss Due to Ash Tree Removal on the Indiana University Southeast Campus in New Albany, Indiana by : Jade R. Bilyeu
Download or read book Effects of Emerald Ash Borer on Ash Tree Health and Economic Loss Due to Ash Tree Removal on the Indiana University Southeast Campus in New Albany, Indiana written by Jade R. Bilyeu. This book was released on 2016. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, an invasive beetle species native to Asia and accidentally introduced to the United States and Canada was first detected in Detroit, Michigan in 2002. Since the initial detection of EAB it has caused ash tree (Fraxinus spp.) mortality ranging between 95-99% in regions of the Midwestern U.S. In an effort to combat ash tree mortality numerous research studies were launched to determine dispersal and behavioral patterns of EAB, as well as address ash tree survival and treatment options. Ash trees were analyzed from both an urban and non-cultivated area on the Indiana University Southeast campus and data were collected in 2015. Measuring canopy density using a densiometer is an accurate and consistent methodology that can be used instead of visual analysis of tree health. The results of data analyses suggest that some trees could have a higher survivorship potential based on growth parameter data in combination with spatial analysis. Using spatial analysis can detect trees with unique growth characteristics when compared to neighboring trees of the same genus. Finding healthy concentrations of ash trees as well as outlier ash trees surrounded by unhealthy trees are two methods that could be used to detect ash trees that are most likely to survive EAB infestation. Both healthy outliers and groups of healthy trees were found. Furthermore, an analysis of total economic value loss was conducted to evaluate the economic effects EAB could have if ash trees in poor health are removed. The economic value lost from removal of parking lot shade ash trees over a three-year period from 2012-2015 was over $713,000. The high value of economic loss suggests that treating ash trees is more economically efficient than removing ash trees unless the trees become a safety hazard. It is recommended that healthy outlier ash trees as well as healthy groups of ash trees be treated and seeds be collected from these uniquely healthy ash trees. It is also recommended that ash trees located in urban (cultivated) areas also continue to be treated to assess survivorship and potential tolerance to EAB and to off-set replacement and removal costs and allow larger canopy trees to remain, due to their higher economic value, as long as possible in affected areas.
