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Emerald Ash Borer

URBANA – Tree and insect specialists are on the lookout for infestations of the emerald ash borer. University of Illinois entomologist Jim Appleby can identify the pest and the tell-tale D-shaped holes it leaves exiting an infested tree and wanted to make identification easier for non-entomologists. He created a four-page colored leaflet with extensive close-up photos that help people know what to look for.

“We get calls every year from homeowners and park officials asking if the pest in their tree is indeed the emerald ash borer,” Appleby said. “I have lots of photos of the insect and the damage it can do to a tree, so I combined them along with some simple information into an 8-1/2 by 11-inch 4-page full-color leaflet.”

The publication called “How to Diagnose, Detect, and Search for Infestations of the Emerald Ash borer” can be purchased for $2.00 each. A printable order form is available by visiting http://nres.illinois.edu/Appleby_Emerald_Ash_Borer or by contacting Carla Chapman (217-333-2770; carlac@illinois.edu). A discount is offered for orders of more than 100 copies.

“Some cities purchase several copies to use in their municipal areas to educate residents, and to display at their public works and park departments,” Appleby said. “It’s a great reference tool to laminate and send out with field crews.”

The emerald ash borer beetle is a bright, metallic, emerald green color; about half an inch long, has a bullet-shaped body; and makes exit holes in bark shaped like the letter "D."

Although the tiger beetle, ground beetle and some bees and wasps are mistaken for the emerald ash borer because of their similar green color, these other borers make an oval or round exit hole. The "D" shape is distinctive.

Insecticides containing imidacloprid have proven to be effective in preventing the ash borer from taking up residence in ash trees. The only brand currently available to homeowners is Bayer Advanced Garden Tree and Shrub Insect Control. Others can be professionally applied. 

Some areas in Illinois are now quarantined. It is unlawful to transport firewood from such quarantined areas. Appleby stressed the best way to prevent the beetle from spreading to new locations is to avoid transporting firewood.  Campers should only purchase firewood produced near their campsite.

4-H Annul Horse Show

By: Brehanna Smith

     On Monday July 12, 4-H held their annual horse show at the Stephenson County Fairground. This show was not just open to Freeport members, but also to those from surrounding areas such as: Pearl City, Dakota, and Orangeville. Participating were 21 4-H’ers, ranging from ages 9-18, and 35 horses, donkeys, and mules. The first class entered the ring at 9:30am.

     Being young wasn’t the biggest challenge some of the 4-H’ers had. Melinda Borgman showed and planned to ride her mother’s horse, Thunder Rolls, while in a wheelchair. This was her first year showing this horse. Borgman said she was born with her legs not useable. When she showed her horse she had the reigns in one hand and controlled her wheelchair with the other. Talk about inspiration!

     Montana Hughes won second place in showmanship with her horse Buddy. This was her first show after a three year break. Allissa Dehaven, with her horse Duece, came in sixth in the same class as Hughes and Buddy.

     The struggles some of these ladies had couldn’t begin to be explained, controlling a half ton animal isn’t easy especially in a wheelchair, the patience and determination these 4-H members was evident during the show.

(Photos: Left, Melinda and Thunder Rolls.  Right, Allissa and Duece) 

 

Freeport Park District MLB Bus Trips:

Cubs Vs Phillies 7/17 fee R/NR $85/$90

White Sox Vs Yankees 8/28 fee R/NR $85/$90

Pre registration required

For game times and bus departure time, please call the Freeport Park District Office at 235-6114 ext 109.