Chronicle Editorial

EAB infestations give added importance to Arbor Day
 
Friday marks the 143rd annual Arbor Day celebration. The holiday was established in 1872 when the Nebraska Board of Agriculture set aside a special day for planting trees, and it’s grown into a worldwide event commemorating all things tree.
     Arbor Day typically brings with it little fanfare or commotion. We’re talking about trees here, and they usually don’t stir up the most passionate response from the masses. We see these hulking giants everyday in our yards, along our streets and in our groves. They never go anywhere, and we have typically had no reason to believe they ever will.
     However, that sentiment is no longer true here in Iowa and the greater Midwest. The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is waging a full-fledged assault on ash trees across the state, and no community is safe. So far 21 counties in Iowa have confirmed EAB infestations. That number is expected to grow to all 99 counties as the months and years wear on, which is certainly an alarming reality for nearly every community in Iowa. The ash tree is a popular species and is featured prominently in cities both large and small.
     The threat of EAB goes beyond mere aesthetic value. Yes, millions of ash trees will be turned into sawdust over the next few years. But tree removal comes at a price, and most of it will be passed on to city governments and eventually the taxpayer. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources estimates the ash borer will cause $2.5 billion in damage once it makes its way across Iowa. That’s no small sum, and it’s time to start planning ahead by planting new trees now.
     Diversifying your yard’s portfolio of tree species is a simple way to combat the EAB’s impending arrival. You can apply costly pesticide to ash trees as a preventive measure, but the treatments must be applied each year for the rest of the tree’s life. Experts suggest starting treatments once the ash borer has been confirmed within 15 miles of your community. That hasn’t happen here yet, but there is no reason you can’t get ahead of the curve by planting a few new trees now. It will give a head start once EAB gets here and has the simultaneous benefit of adding more beauty to your yard. Ash trees aren’t the prettiest trees in the world, and there are plenty of other options out there that look just as good or better.
     Trees add value to our properties, provide shade that conserves energy, and help stop soil erosion – the list goes on and on. Please take the time to celebrate Arbor Day by planting a few new roots this week. There are plenty of opportunities here in Hampton to get involved – the Hampton Tree Board hopes to plant new trees at various parks throughout the city on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Throw on some old clothes, grab a shovel and get your hands dirty. Arbor Day is often overlooked, but it’s important nonetheless. Our trees are a priceless resource here in Iowa and it’s important to recognize their value to our communities.