Emerald ash borer confirmed in Colorado Springs

The City of Colorado Springs announced that emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive insect that kills ash trees, has been confirmed within the city limits.

While the discovery marks a significant milestone, City officials emphasize that Colorado Springs has been preparing for this possibility and is ready to begin implementing its Emerald Ash Borer Management and Response Plan.

The City is also launching a public awareness campaign to help residents understand the threat, learn how to identify ash trees and recognize signs of infestation, and take appropriate action to help protect Colorado Springs' urban forest.

"While this confirmation is not unexpected, it is an important reminder that protecting our community's tree canopy will require a coordinated effort," said City Forester Matthew Puckett. "The City has been preparing for this moment, and now we're asking residents to help us by learning about emerald ash borer and understanding what it means for trees on both public and private property."

Emerald ash borer is a small metallic green beetle native to Asia that has killed tens of millions of ash trees throughout North America. The insect attacks ash trees by tunneling beneath the bark, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. Once infested, ash trees typically decline and die within a few years if left untreated.

One out of every five trees in Colorado Springs is an ash tree. If Emerald Ash Borer is left unmanaged, it has the potential to kill nearly every ash tree within 15 years, as these trees have no natural defenses against the insect. This loss would translate to more than $190 million in reduced ecological benefits, including air purification, stormwater management, and carbon sequestration.

The City's Emerald Ash Borer Management and Response Plan establishes a long-term strategy for managing impacts to publicly owned ash trees through monitoring, treatment, strategic removal when necessary, tree replacement, and ongoing public education. The plan prioritizes public safety while working to preserve valuable tree canopy wherever practical.

Although the City will manage ash trees on public property, property owners are responsible for trees on private property. Residents who believe they have ash trees are encouraged to learn how to identify them, monitor for signs of infestation, and consult a certified arborist if they have questions about treatment options.

Residents can learn more by visiting ColoradoSprings.gov/EAB, where they can:

• Learn how to identify ash trees
• Recognize signs and symptoms of emerald ash borer
• Review frequently asked questions
• View the City's Emerald Ash Borer Management and Response Plan
• Find resources for property owners

The City will continue working with the Colorado State Forest Service, the Colorado Department of Agriculture, and regional partners to monitor emerald ash borer activity and provide updates as additional information becomes available.