Maine Forest Service addresses emerald ash borer threat to Bangor community

The Bangor City Infrastructure Committee meeting on April 29, 2025, spotlighted the urgent threat posed by the emerald ash borer (EAB) to local ash trees, with officials emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent widespread infestation. The primary theory for the insect's introduction to Maine is linked to the transportation of firewood from out of state, as well as shipping pallets made from Asian ash wood.

During the meeting, representatives from the Maine Forest Service discussed ongoing monitoring efforts, including traps set up in various locations around Bangor to track the EAB's presence. They highlighted the importance of public outreach, urging residents not to move ash wood out of Penobscot County to mitigate the risk of spreading the pest.

The committee is working on a proactive plan to treat and preserve ash trees identified as valuable to the community. Treatments are expected to begin in the spring and summer of 2025, with a focus on trees that contribute significantly to the urban canopy. The committee is also collaborating with Bangor High School students to enhance community involvement in monitoring efforts.

Council members expressed strong support for these initiatives, recognizing the cultural significance of ash trees, particularly for the Wabanaki people, who rely on brown ash for traditional crafts. The meeting concluded with a commitment to adopt a comprehensive plan that includes recommendations for tree preservation and management, aiming to act before the EAB becomes a larger problem in the Greater Bangor area.