Ash may be at risk

Ash trees are medium to large broadleaf trees (12-25 meters) that grow fairly quickly and tolerate a variety of growing conditions.

After the Dutch elm disease in the ‘50s and ‘60s, ash trees were a popular replacement. But in 2002, an invasive insect native to Asia was found killing them in Michigan.

Since then, infestations of the beetle have been found widespread in the United States, including six counties in Iowa, and most recently in Black Hawk a couple weeks ago. Proximity-wise, Black Hawk touches Butler from the southeast.

EAB is known to travel just two to three miles per year, but the spread of the beetle from firewood movement has allowed it to diperse faster.

Read full story in the Feb. 20 Tribune-Journal and Clarksville Star.