IL SR1029

Illinois contains approximately 4 million ash trees facing infestation by the emerald ash borer (EAB), which will expose 100% of all ash trees within five years, costing municipalities $3-4 billion in removal and replacement expenses.

Mature trees provide significant environmental and economic benefits, including reduced energy costs, rainwater management, air filtration, and approximately 5% of home property value attribution.

University researchers from Illinois, Michigan State, Purdue, and Ohio State have demonstrated that insecticide treatment methods are effective, with one method achieving over 95% effectiveness at preserving ash trees at a fraction of removal costs.

The Society of Municipal Arborists recommends an integrated approach combining tree treatment with selective removal of low-grade ash trees rather than mass removal or no action, warning of a "financial tsunami" for unprepared municipalities.

Urges Illinois municipalities to reevaluate EAB management plans using 20-year economic models from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point or Purdue University, and directs the Illinois Department of Agriculture to publish 2012 EAB management approach information on its website.