Ash Tour at the White Mountain National Forest

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive insect native to northeastern Asia that feeds on ash species. Natural resistance to EAB is extremely low in the native ash population. Once infested, mortality typically occurs within two to five years. In areas where EAB infestation is severe, over 99 percent of ash trees may die. A significant component of the hardwood forests in New England, ash is culturally and ecologically important. To increase ash resistance to EAB on selected sites and increase resilience to EAB infestations across the Forest, the White Mountain National Forest (WMNF) will be implementing the “White Mountain Ash Preservation Project.” This project will inject emamectin benzoate insecticide into the base of up to twenty ash trees at each of 80 sites across the WMNF in New Hampshire and Maine. This insecticide has proven to be a highly effective EAB control for up to three years with a single application and over a longer timeframe with periodic treatment. Forest Botanist Dan Sperduto and Forest Silviculturist Jason Lyle will lead a tour at Campton Day Use area, one of the ash preservation sites, where they will discuss the project in detail.

Visitors must dress appropriately for walking in the woods the day of the visit. Sturdy walking/hiking shoes and trekking poles are highly recommended, and rain gear and warm hats may be needed if the weather is variable. There are no food services available at the Campton Day Use Area. There is parking that can hold about 5 vehicles with more parking on the side of the road if necessary. Carpooling is encouraged. There are no bathrooms at this location. We request that trash and food are picked up by visitors before they depart, abiding by all “Leave No Trace” principles.