Measuring the cost of an invasive tree killer

[nitpicker]

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-50880970

Measuring the cost of an invasive tree killer

By Mark Kinver
Environment reporter

9 hours ago

For the first time, a study has attempted to assess the devastation caused by the emerald ash borer in US forests that shape river systems.

Researchers discovered a range of ways that the ecologically vital habitat is being systematically changed at a landscape level.
(snip)

Since it was first recorded in Michigan, the tiny wood-boring beetle has spread across the north-eastern reach of the US, killing tens of millions of ash trees.

The cost to the nation's economy has been estimated to exceed $10bn.

However, a team from Michigan State University saw that little attention had been paid to how the invasion was changing the face of riparian (water/river system) forests.
(snip)

When the team examined the impact of 15 years of the invasive emerald ash borer across forests in three watersheds, although there was widespread mortality, the legacy on the ground varied widely.

"The trees in south east Michigan had begun to really decay and break down and accumulate," Mr Engelken told BBC News.

"We were climbing over piles of dead ash trees in open canopy areas that used to be dense overstorey (the uppermost canopy level of a forest, formed by the tallest trees).

"And about 120 miles to the west, we would see the standing dead trees. These were going to have really large scale impacts on the environment; the riparian forest floor and in the streams as well.
(snip)

[Frustratedlady]

1. They are terrible and wipe out trees in no time.

Our area has lost a ton of ash trees. I still have a couple that will need to be taken out next summer.

[safeinOhio]

2. The unforeseen result of one addition to the environment.

https://phys.org/news/2013-05-trout-invasion-yellowstone-elk-decline.html

When there was a big decline in the elk herd in Yellowstone park, everyone thought it was the return of the wolf. After a 3 year study, it turned out to be, someone introduced a couple of lake trout in a lake that cause the decline in elk....go figure.

[mopinko]

3. they are devastating the urban forest here in chi.

a couple of hoods have had whole streets dearly denuded.
fortunately we have a good diversity here, but every big tree is a big loss.