Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive species of beetle which feeds exclusively on ash trees. The larvae burrow under the bark of ash trees and feed there, causing extensive damage which leads to the death of the tree within a few years.

Native to eastern Asia, EAB was first discovered in North America in 2002. In 2008, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the presence of EAB in Brampton and neighbouring municipalities.

General Information

How can I identify an Ash tree?: Ash tree leaves are compound with 5-11 leaflets arranged directly opposite one another. Tree branches also form directly opposite one another, rather than in a staggered pattern.

The bark of a mature ash tree tends to form a distinct pattern of diamond-shaped ridges. Young trees have relatively smooth bark.
How can I identify EAB?: An adult beetle is about 1 cm long. They may be seen feeding on the leaves of ash trees.

An infested tree may have markedly reduced density of leaves, long shoots growing from the trunk or branches, vertical cracks in the trunk and small D-shaped holes in the trunk where the adult beetle emerges. You may notice evidence of adult beetles feeding on the leaves, or S-shaped tunnels under the bark, filled with fine sawdust.
How do I know if my tree is affected by EAB?: An infested tree will show signs of thinning within the canopy. The tree will begin to die from the top down and long shoots may grow from the trunk. Heavily infested trees will show woodpecker damage and D-shaped holes where adult insects exit the tree. For photos and more information on EAB and how to recognize it, visit the CFIA’s website.
Is EAB dangerous for humans or pets?: No, there is no health threat associated with EAB for humans or animals. EAB attacks and kills exclusively ash trees. Other species of trees are not affected.
Where can I get more information about EAB?: The City of Brampton is committed to the preservation of our urban tree canopy as part of our community’s rich natural environment. The City is working with Region of Peel and the CFIA to address this issue. For more information on EAB, visit the CFIA and Region of Peel websites, email Brampton’s Urban Forestry division at forestry@brampton.ca or contact 3-1-1.

Impact on Brampton

How many ash trees are in Brampton?: The City of Brampton has identified approximately 22,000 ash trees on Brampton streets, with a further 8,000-10,000 trees within our parks and maintained open spaces. This does not account for trees within natural areas or on private property.
Where is EAB located in Brampton?: As of fall 2015, all ash trees within Brampton are infested to some degree with Emerald Ash Borer.
Why didn't Brampton do something to prevent the spread of this insect?: Governments in Canada and the United States have been unable to stop the spread of EAB. Infestation is very difficult to detect in the early stages. Once established, infestation spreads rapidly. By the time EAB was discovered in Brampton, high EAB populations had already been detected throughout areas of the City. Experts believe that EAB may have been in North America for 13 years before being discovered, and eradication of this pest is not possible.

Trees on City Property

Can I have the firewood from the City tree that was just removed?: In an effort to prevent the spread of EAB to areas not affected by the insect, the City will be removing all wood from ash removals and processing the wood at designated wood waste yards. Processing the wood waste has been determined to be the best method to kill the insect.
When will the replacement trees be planted?: Our normal practice is to plant trees the year after the removal. However, due to seasonal conditions, the need to purchase nursery stock, and considering the large number of trees that are expected to die and be removed in the next few years, this may not always be possible.
Will the City replace the trees that are removed?: Yes, the City is planning to replace all trees on public property that are removed due to EAB, based on budget availability. Budget levels from 2016-2018 would provide funding for approximately 5,000 replacement trees per year. A site inspection will determine tree species and site suitability for a replacement tree. Replacement trees will represent a variety of different species that are not affected by EAB.

Trees on Private Property

Do I need a permit to remove a dying ash tree on my property?: No, given the large numbers of trees on private lands that will be affected by EAB, removal permits will not be required for failing ash species.
The City’s Tree Preservation By-law states that a permit is required when removing a large, privately-owned tree (over 30 cm in diameter) but Ash tree removals are exempt from this process. The City requires notification for any removals over 30cm to confirm the species of the tree being removed.
I have an ash tree on my private property. What do I need to do?: There is no immediate need to cut down ash trees on your property. If you suspect an ash tree on your property is infested, you are encouraged to contact a certified arborist to confirm this. If your tree has died or is a hazard, you will need to arrange for its removal.

For your safety, larger trees should be removed by a qualified and insured tree professional. You are welcome to contact the City’s Urban Forestry division for more information about EAB or the process for having a privately owned tree removed at forestry@brampton.ca or 3-1-1.
Will I be compensated for trees I have to cut down?: Unfortunately, no compensation is available for the loss of trees on private lands.
Will I be fined if I don't cut down infected ash trees?: You will be required to cut down a tree that has died or poses a danger. This requirement will be implemented prior to the dead trees beginning to decay to a point where their presence is a liability to surrounding residents and the act of removal becomes hazardous. It is possible that an "Order to Comply" could be issued to residents by Property Standards staff. If there is no compliance, the City would have the tree removed and the land owner will be required to pay those costs.