June 16, 2016
Dear Resident,
The invasive pest, Emerald Ash Borer, has killed millions of ash trees across the United States and is now a serious threat in Anne Arundel County. These infested ash trees die one to three years after infestation and are a hazard when located in close proximity to people and property. To protect public safety and avoid property damage, the Department of Public Works (DPW) is now working to treat or remove the “street trees” occupying county –maintained roadside property that have been identified by the County Forester as ash.
Identifying the presence of this pest can help retain ash trees through treatment and minimize risk from hazard trees. It can also contain costs for tree removal and replacement. However, it is important to note, most ash trees that have been identified within the County right-of-way are too damaged for treatment to be effective and are considered hazardous. Therefore, they must be removed to avoid potential injury or property damage.
There are a number of things you can expect to encounter over the coming months:
1. Prior to removal or treatment, DPW will install temporary ‘No Parking’ signs on the street to facilitate treatment or removal of the ash trees. Please keep these areas clear so that treatment/removal can proceed quickly and efficiently.
2. Parking restrictions will typically be in place for a week or less, depending on the extent of work.
3. After work crews have left the area, you may see some flags placed near remaining trees. These flags mean that the ash tree was determined to be well enough for treatment. There are no special precautions required, but please leave these flags in place as they are required per safety regulations.
4. There are many communities affected by EAB so it may take several months for crews to reach your street. In the meantime, please be mindful that ash trees are naturally brittle when dead. Dead tree limbs can fall without warning and can cause serious damage.
5. Anne Arundel County cannot remove trees on private property. It is recommended that homeowners and community associations inspect their properties for ash trees and treat or remove those trees as necessary.
Further information about identifying ash trees and about EAB can be found at:
http://mda.maryland.gov/plants-pests/Pages/eab.aspx
Please feel free to contact DPW Customer Relations at 410-222-7582 if you have any questions or seek additional information. You can also email Customer Relations at pwcust00@aacounty.org.
Matt Diehl, Manager
DPW Customer Relations