The Kansas Forest Service has confirmed the presence of the emerald ash borer at a private residence in Nemaha County, marking the second detection of this invasive pest in Kansas this year. On October 14, KFS, in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension, verified the existence of a live insect. This is the first live specimen found in the area, essential for official confirmation, despite prior suspicions.

Earlier in 2024, the pest was also confirmed in Lyon County. The emerald ash borer, native to eastern Russia and northeastern Asia, likely entered the U.S. through infested packing materials. It threatens both urban and rural forests by killing North American ash species and cultivars.

So far, over 70 million ash trees have been lost to this beetle, with projections suggesting that up to 9 billion could eventually be affected. The discovery in Nemaha County increases the total to 15 Kansas counties where the pest has been confirmed.

Forest officials urge landowners to recognize signs of infestation and to develop replacement plans for declining ash trees, promoting a diverse landscape for greater resilience against pests and diseases. Landowners should consult certified arborists for treatment and report suspected sightings to the appropriate authorities.