SHOULD HOOSIERS HARVEST VALUABLE ASH TREES BEFORE EAB ARRIVES IN INDIANA?
There is no definitive answer to this question, mainly because the exact time and location of the insects arrival in Indiana is not known. Emerald ash borer naturally expands its territory by about 1/2 to 1 mile annually, but artificial movement of the pest is unpredictable. The decision to harvest ash before EAB is found instead of risking financial loss later must be made by the individual landowner. In the central and southern regions of Indiana, harvesting should probably proceed according to planned management needs of the forest. Landowners in the northern parts of Indiana (especially the northeast area) should frequently reassess the situation, and may wish to consult their district forester or IDNR for information. CAN LUMBER FROM INFESTED ASH TREES BE SALVAGED? Ash trees in quarantined zones could be processed and salvaged as long as there is no threat of further spreading the beetle to other areas. It is more likely to salvage lumber from forest trees than yard or street tree
