Invasive beetle found on reservation

The Fond du Lac Resource Management Department confirmed the presence of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) within the Fond du Lac Reservation boundaries last month. Signs of emerald-colored beetle were found on the north side of Houle Road on the eastern edge of the Reservation. EAB is an invasive forest pest known for its devastating impact on ash trees. Although the infestation is currently small, with only a few individual trees showing signs of infestation, it is likely that there are more affected trees in the area that have yet to be detected. To address this issue and mitigate the spread of EAB, the Fond du Lac Resource Management Department is taking immediate action, including continued surveillance to slow the spread of EAB and implementing other management strategies. It is important to not cut infested ash during the flight season of the beetles (May 1-October 31) to prevent further spread.

Residents are asked to avoid moving firewood from one location to another, and use only locally sourced firewood. Anyone spotting signs of EAB infestation, such as D-shaped exit holes in ash trees, serpentine-shaped tunnels under the bark, or dieback of the canopy, is asked to report it to the Fond du Lac Resource Management Department immediately.