Quantifying the Impact of Emerald Ash Borer and Ash Loss within the Lake Simcoe Watershed

Abstract

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire) is an invasive insect first discovered in Michigan in 2002. Since then, millions of trees within Canada and the United States have been killed. As EAB continues to move north, the Lake Simcoe watershed is at risk of stand ash level mortality. A study was conducted within Beaver River, utilizing the Vegetation Sampling Protocol (VSP) developed in conjunction between the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (OMNRF) and the University of Toronto, Faculty of Forestry. This study aims to quantify the current state of ash trees within Beaver River, quantify the extent of EAB related damage, and determine the resultant effects on forest communities and succession, in order for management plans to be adapted accordingly for the threat of EAB devastation.