Invasive Insect Damaging to Ash Trees Detected in Bangor

The Maine Forest Service has notified the City of Bangor that the emerald ash borer, an invasive insect that’s harmful to ash trees, has been detected for the first time in the city.

Because of this confirmation, plans for the removal of certain ash trees on public land in Bangor are being made.

Before removal, these trees will be reinspected by the Forestry Division to verify their status as hazardous, as some tree conditions can change from year to year. Characteristics that warrant hazard status include, but are not limited to, significant lean toward infrastructure or buildings; repeated damage from vehicles that indicates poor planting location; poor weight distribution from improper pruning; and significant defects (rot, cracks, cavities) along the main stem or large primary branches. These hazards will be exacerbated by infestation, as the wood will become brittle. For this reason, they cannot be left standing until they become infested.

The Forestry Division intends to proceed with a previously planned schedule of injections to protect high-value ash trees across the City. There are 431 ash trees that are scheduled to be injected starting in May 2026. Approximately 300 more will be injected in spring 2027, should their condition still be suitable for treatment at that time.

The City currently is unable to offer management of privately owned ash trees but urges residents to reach out to the Forestry Division with questions. The number to call is 207-992-4504.

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