The emerald ash borer has arrived from Asia and is spreading quickly among the ash trees in Centre Wellington.
Once the ash borer reaches a tree, it will get root rot and fall within three to five years.
There is a treatment for the infected trees, which costs about $200 per tree, per year.
“Communitrees,” a group of approximately eight people, finished site one on of a restoration project this fall, along the Elora Cataract Trail, just east of the First Line, where 12 trees were planted, including red oak, white oak, white spruce, sugar maple and iron wood trees.
“The word Communitrees explains the concept. You have a community of volunteers who are willing to plant the community trees,” said Carolyn Crozier, founder of Communitrees.
According to the forestry industry, all ash trees could be gone within a decade, and huge losses will be seen within three to five years now that the ash borer has been positively detected.
“This is an opportunity to plant. We can use the ash trees as nurse trees while they’re still alive,” said Crozier. “Ash trees can be helpful while alive.”
Crozier also noted certain native trees, such as red oak, white oak and sugar maple, always grow better together. “The trees help support each other,” she said. “The goal is to plant 12 in the ground now, and gather 30 more in the spring.”
Crozier noted the first two years are really crucial for watering, especially during drought times.
“The people who have volunteered to be a part of this pilot planting, have dedicated themselves for three years following up with watering,” said Crozier.
Communitrees is planning to set up signs along the trail, which will explain to passers-by what the species are, the reasons for the plant, and why they’re there.
“We want this to also be a learning opportunity,” Crozier said.
A few members will be presenting at the annual general meeting for Elora Cataract Trailway Association in March, showing a slide presentation of the stages of plants, hoping to attract more volunteers and present a learning opportunity.
“If enough volunteers come through, we can get a second site going this spring,” said Crozier.
For more information call Carolyn Crozier at 519-843-3030.
