“It’s 20+ years since EAB arrived in North America and it is still spreading, so we need to do something different”

In March 2024, multiple community advisors from across North America gathered to reflect on past management strategies of EAB, what has been learned and to identify future plans over the coming 5-10 years.

Alberta municipalities and districts stand to benefit from these findings. See report highlights below.

Limitiations

Participants shared several challenges in managing ash trees and EAB. A few include:

  • Funding: Not enough funding or staff at all levels.

  • Awareness: Low public awareness and weak political support.

  • Coordination: Staffing and coordination problems within organizations.

  • Multiple Demands: Other invasive pests competing for attention and resources.

Ideal Management Strategies

Participants shared their preferred strategies for managing ash trees and Participants shared key ideas for managing ash trees and EAB. A few include:

  • Public Outreach: Raise awareness, share clear, consistent messages. Work with community and Indigenous groups.

  • Funding and Teamwork: Secure funding for removal, treatment, and biocontrol. Encourage collaboration across governments, community groups, and landowners. Share what works.

  • Monitoring and Treatment: Use traps and surveys regularly. Protect big ash trees. Support biocontrol and seed conservation.

  • Research: Invest in biocontrol, breeding resistant trees, and gene preservation. Communicate and learn from successful cities. Plan for climate change.