Emerald Ash Borer

Yes — the invasive emerald ash borer is now a serious problem in Texas, including the Dallas–Fort Worth area and Tarrant County. The beetle attacks and kills all ash tree species, including Texas ash, green ash, and white ash. 

Texas A&M Forest Service 

In Texas, confirmed infestations now include counties such as Dallas, Denton, Parker, Wise, and Tarrant County. 

Texas A&M Forest Service 

Common signs of emerald ash borer infestation include:

Thinning canopy and dead branches at the top

Sprouting shoots along the trunk

Bark splitting

Distinctive “D”-shaped exit holes

Heavy woodpecker activity

Serpentine tunnels under the bark

The larvae feed beneath the bark and destroy the tree’s vascular system, preventing water and nutrients from moving through the tree. Once symptoms are obvious, many trees are already heavily infested. Untreated ash trees often die within 1–3 years after infestation becomes established. 

Texas A&M Forest Service 

Treatment is possible if caught early. Certified arborists commonly use trunk injections containing emamectin benzoate to protect valuable ash trees. Preventive treatment is far more successful than waiting until the tree is severely declining. 

Texas A&M Forest Service recommends:

Do not move ash firewood

Monitor ash trees closely

Have suspicious trees inspected by a certified arborist

Treat healthy, high-value ash trees before major decline

Texas A&M Forest Service 

Ash trees become brittle and hazardous as they die, especially after standing dead for a year or more. Removal can become significantly more dangerous and expensive if delayed. Community reports from arborists and homeowners across North Texas are already showing widespread decline and removals. 

Contact Your local Certified Arborists at Prichard Tree Care for diagnosis and Treatment Strategies for the emerald ash Borer in the Ft.Worth Dallas areas