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Emerald Ash Borer Background Information

Section Five

Why are trees so important?

Trees are important for a variety of reasons.  Trees in urban, suburban, and rural areas improve our quality of life, create a habitat for plants and animals, improve the quality of the air we breathe, and reduce storm water runoff and erosion.  They provide the shade that helps temper local climate and conserve energy and serve as natural screens and buffers. Trees improve our health and well-being and contribute and promote a sense of community. 

An Ash tree is tagged at a zoo

If ash trees are infested and die, or have to be destroyed, there is a devastating economic impact on nursery, landscaping, timber, and recreation and tourism industries because of the loss of resources and the jobs associated with those resources.  The destruction of ash trees decreases the quality of life for other members of the community.  Trees are identified by:  leaves, bark, buds, twigs or branches, flowers, and structure.  These components are analyzed by shape, size, color, texture, and smell.