Nursery Stock Inspections
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) continues to inspect nursery stock during Nursery Dealer and Nursery Grower inspections for insect and disease problems including EAB. Particular attention is given to ash stock to ensure that EAB is not entering the state. NDA Inspectors also check for labeling of place of origin on nursery stock, as required by the Nebraska Plant Protection and Plant Pest Act, to ensure that all Federal and state quarantines are being followed. NDA is working to educate the nursery industry about this potential threat to ash trees in Nebraska through outreach programs.

Firewood Inspections
In addition to inspecting nursery stock, NDA also inspects firewood. Inspectors check for paperwork showing state of origin, and examine wood for evidence of EAB, or other quarantined pests. While much of the firewood sold in Nebraska is of Nebraska origin, a significant amount comes from other states. No violations of the Federal EAB quarantine were found during 2007 firewood inspections.

2008 EAB Trapping Survey
The USDA has proposed a National Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) survey for 2008 to better determine the extent of EAB infestations in the U.S. Recent advances in EAB research have resulted in the first effective trap and lure combination for EAB. The trap is composed of purple, sticky panels and baited with Manuka oil. Both the purple color and Manuka oil have been found to be highly attractive to EAB adults. Each trap is hung approximately 10-12 feet off the ground, in ash trees. The USDA has requested all states participate in this survey and is providing funding and trapping supplies for survey work.

Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) and USDA staff will work jointly to set and monitor 200 traps across the state, targeting sites considered at high risk for EAB introductions. These sites will include campgrounds and parks, rest areas, nurseries, and green waste sites. Traps will be set mid-April to mid-May and monitored throughout the flight season before being taken down starting in August.

For more information on the 2008 National EAB Trapping Survey, visit www.purpleeabsurvey.info

Think you have found EAB in Nebraska?
If you suspect you have found an EAB infestation in Nebraska, please contact the Nebraska Department of Agriculture at (402) 471-2394 or the national EAB hotline at 866-322-4512.