"There are some streets that are really going to be impacted by this insect," the mayor said.

Once the insect finds its way into the tree, it kills the tree; therefore, according to Ohio law, the tree must be removed along with the insect.

According to the Web site www.emeraldashborer.info, EAB is an exotic beetle that was discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in the summer of 2002. "The adult beetles nibble on ash foliage but cause little damage.

“The larvae (the immature stage) 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." Since its discovery, EAB has:
● Killed more than 20 million ash trees in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. Most of the devastation is in southeastern Michigan.
● Caused regulatory agencies to enforce quarantines ( Ohio, Indiana, Michigan) and fines to prevent potentially infested ash trees, logs or firewood from moving out of areas where EAB occurs.
● Cost municipalities, property owners, nursery operators and forest products industries tens of millions of dollars.

Also according to the law all trees surrounding an infected tree must be removed.

"The arborist is not very optimistic about defeating this parasite. Streets such as Center and the Village Square will be affected in only a matter of time," the mayor said.

There are several types of treatment available but none are proven to kill the insect.

The arborist warned council that they may have to make some "big decisions" in the next couple of years.

Terrace Park is also afflicted with EAB and has decided to remove the trees and start replanting with another species of tree.