unknown on Jul 22, 2022
Originally reported as Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis)
Submitter does not have a specimen
EDRR Status: Local expert notified
Description of specimen
Recently dead Oregon ash tree with broken top has at least three D-shaped exit holes of approx 1/8". Other exit holes are oval and a few are round. Peeling a section of bark revealed very few feeding channels - only 2 or 3 faint straight or curved channels. This is not a clear case of EAB, but I am reporting in case there are other local reports or if anyone more knowledgeable is in the area and wishes to view the tree. I spent about 15 minutes looking at nearby trees which all appeared healthy with no exit holes visible. See photos.
Other wood borers in the Metallic wood boring beetle family also make D-shaped exit holes and S-shaped galleries, but the relatives do not attack ash. These exit holes do look suspicious, but a close relative of EAB, the willow gall limb borer, attacks dead and dying willows and can be confused.
So far EAB has only been confirmed in Washington County. Scouting potentially vulnerable stands of ash elsewhere will be vital to slowing it's spread in Oregon. Adult beetles will only be active for a short time, so signs of damage to ash trees is the best way to find them.
Tom Valente
July 22, 2022, 3:40 a.m.