Emerald Ash Borer confirmed in Milwaukee; Quarantine imminent for Walworth and Rock

More than a dozen trees infested with the emerald ash borer have been confirmed on the north side of the city of Milwaukee.

A specialist with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection identified adult beetles on Thursday (July 12) after a city forestry work crew noticed several distressed ash trees while driving through a neighborhood along West Mill Road.

The emerald ash borer quarantine is almost official for Walworth and Rock counties.

The emergency rule to establish the quarantine takes effect once published in the state's official newspaper, which will likely happen within a few days.

New infestations of the ash tree-killing insect were discovered in and around Lake Geneva and Janesville last month.

The tree-killing emerald ash borer has been confirmed in 12 Wisconsin counties: Brown, Crawford, Kenosha, La Crosse, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Rock, Vernon, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha.

In addition to the counties above, Fond du Lac and Sheboygan counties are also under quarantine for EAB. Milwaukee County has been under quarantine since 2009.

The EAB quarantine affects some businesses that use certain ash products. For most people the quarantine means that hardwood firewood, regardless of tree species, cannot leave the quarantine area.

City of Milwaukee residents should contact the city forestry department if they have concerns about their ash trees.

Residents in other communities in Milwaukee County or in any quarantined county should contact a certified arborist or other tree care professional for assistance.

Information about EAB can be found on the web at www.emeraldashborer.wi.gov.