City arborist announces Emerald Ash Borer found in Rutland; treatment options and certified contractors available

Rutland’s city arborist, Tim Smith, told the Board of Aldermen that Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), an invasive insect that kills ash trees, was recently discovered in the North Main Street cemetery and that the city has been proactively managing street trees for several years.
Smith said the city removed approximately 350 street ash trees years ago, left about 150 that are now being treated every two years with systemic insecticide, and will continue monitoring. He advised homeowners with ash trees to consider options such as removal or treatment because dead trees require more costly, specialized removal methods. Smith listed two local companies that provide injections: Trees Incorporated and Conn's Tree Service; Bill Conn (Conn's) was present and a certified first detector.
Why it matters: EAB infestation can lead to 100% mortality of ash trees, creating safety hazards and altering streetscapes. The city’s continued treatment program should protect municipal trees, but private-property trees require owner attention.
What residents can do: Smith suggested homeowners visit vtinvasives.org for identification and a list of certified contractors and consider systemic injections to preserve valuable trees. The arborist said preserving healthy trees is cost-effective; removing live trees tends to be pricier due to specialized equipment needs for dead trees.
What’s next: The city will continue its treatment schedule for municipally owned trees and share identification resources and contractor lists with the public.