Because there have been confirmed sightings in the Chicago area of the emerald ash borer, the Village is providing residents with the following information to help identify the signs and symptoms of the insect, which can destroy ash trees.

In addition, the following information will help residents determine what they must do if they have dead or declining trees, or trees with destructive insect infestation.

See frequently asked questions and answers here regarding removal of parkway trees affected by the emerald ash borer.
 
Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald ash borer (EAB) is an exotic beetle that was discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in the summer of 2002. The adult beetles feed on ash foliage, but cause little damage. The larvae feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients. Emerald ash borer probably arrived in the United States on solid wood packing material carried in cargo ships or airplanes originating in its native Asia.

The EAB is a small (1/2 inch long, 1/8 inch wide) metallic green beetle native to Asia. The beetle will fit on a penny with room to spare. Officials believe the borer arrived in Illinois in ash tree firewood from a neighboring state. Do not move firewood!

The adult beetle, upon leaving the tree, makes a small D-shaped exit hole that is only 1/8 inch. Emerald ash borer will only attack ash trees. Proper identification of the ash tree is useful. Another sign of EAB is a woodpecker on the tree. The woodpecker is trying to feed on the beetle.

The crown of the ash tree will die back and more branches will continually die for the next few years. As the death of the tree continues, suckers at the base of the trunk will sprout.

What To Do

Because it is a priority for the Village of Tinley Park to preserve our tree population, regulations for removal of dead and insect-infested trees have been updated.

If you suspect that a tree on your property or parkway is dead or infested with destructive emerald ash borer insects, contact the Illinois Department of Agriculture at 800-641-3934. If the tree is located in the parkway and is a safety hazard, contact the Tinley Park Public Works Department at 708-444-5500. Experts will examine the tree and determine its status.

Residents must remove trees on their property that are identified as a nuisance. The trees must be cut at ground level, with all firewood and woody debris disposed of in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture regulations. If a resident refuses to remove a nuisance tree, the Village may enter the property to remove it and the resident will be subject to a fine. Trees on the public parkways or other public property will be removed at the Village’s expense.

It is important for the community to adhere to these regulations so we can preserve our precious tree population.  For further information, please contact the Public Works Department at 708-444-5500.