Ash Tree Removal at Vago Park
Ash tree removal began at Vago Park Wednesday, February 9 due to an infestation by the invasive north eastern Asian beetle, the Emerald Ash Borer.
These beetles are extremely destructive to native ash trees, as the trees have no natural defense to the larva that tunnel and bore through their bark. Once infected, the host tree will die within 2-4 years from the damage.
Superintendent of Parks Charlie Milligan has been observing the trees with the help of the Missouri Department of Conservation and it has been determined that the trees cannot be saved. "The next step is to construct a plan to have them removed," said Milligan. "Our number one priority is the safety, health and wellbeing of all our park patrons."
While residents may be sad to see the trees go, the Parks Department will be planting new trees in their place. "This is an opportunity to increase the biodiversity of the landscape," said Parks Maintenance Member and ISA Certified Arborist Mike LoRusso. "We will be able to replace the infested trees with native species that will be beneficial to the habitat."
Various oak, elm, maple and other varieties of trees are planned to be planted to replace the ash trees.
Learn more about the Emerald Ash Borer from the Missouri Department of Conservation by clicking here.
Learn more about the Emerald Ash Borer from the Missouri Department of Conservation by clicking here.
Parks Maintenance Member and ISA Certified Arborist Mike LoRusso begins cutting limbs from an infested ash tree at Vago Park.
Damage to an ash tree at Vago Park by the Emerald Ash Borer.
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Emerald Ash Borers are extremely destructive to native ash trees, as the trees have no natural defense to the larva that tunnel and bore through the bark. Once infected, the host tree will die within 2-4 years from the damage.