Seasonal Monitoring Guide for Emerald Ash Borer

Monitoring at the right time, June through August, helps focus monitoring efforts, improving efficiency and increasing the chances of early detection for a rapid response.

Ash tree species are one of the last tree species to leaf out in spring. Depending on how consistently warm spring temperatures are, if they have not produced leaves by early June, it may be a symptom of stress.

Monitoring for tree health is an important part of the iNaturalist project.

Municipal Surveillance of EAB

When populations are too low to detect, green and dark purple sticky prism traps are used as part of local surveillance efforts.

With attached patches of synthetically reproduced female pheromones to lure male beetles, they are easily captured and detected when technicians collect the traps throughout the summer. Another trap design, without use of the sticky residue applied to the prism traps, is a funnel trap designed to prevent escape.

You may see these traps setup high in ash tree canopies in cities across Alberta.