The invasive emerald ash borer is spreading across Ohio, ruining trees and costing taxpayers.
The exotic Asian beetle has been in Ohio nearly a decade, and Ohio State University expert Joe Boggs says it is spreading like a wild fire. The toll is mounting, too. Besides causing local governments to divert funds for eradication efforts, homeowners are paying for treatments and private contractors, and the loss of ash trees.
The Dayton Daily News reports that the city has already spent $40,000 to remove 200 diseased ash trees and replace them. Some cities and neighborhoods are losing tree canopies that provide shade and a picturesque look.
The Heatherwood Golf Course in southwest Ohio recently took down 110 infested trees. Some localities are developing plans to cope with the ash borer.