Grant Helps Village Replace Trees Infested With Emerald Ash Borer

has been able to replace 46 trees damaged by the emerald ash borer, thanks to a nearly $16,000 grant from the Metropolitan Mayor’s Caucus.

The insects made their way into some of the village’s ash trees on the outskirts of Bolingbrook in 2011. Officials said they will continue to monitor the village’s trees.

“We will remove dead trees and replace (them) as funds are available,” said Michael Drey, Bolingbrook’s director of public works.

, Mayor Roger Claar said during January’s State of the Village address.

Bolingbrook Trustee Mike Lawler said officials "are keeping informed of any developments in trying to solve the issue."

"No firm solution has been developed as yet, but we have heard of some treatments that seem to delay the impact," he said. "There are a number of issues affecting how severe the impact could be, including weather patterns." 

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the emerald ash borer is a small, metallic green pest whose larvae feeds under the bark of ash trees, cutting off nutrient flow essential for a healthy tree. It has been found in several states from the east coast to the midwest, and in June 2006 it was discovered in a residential neighborhood in Kane County.

Bolingbrook residents can call the village to detect and diagnose infestations of the ash borer.

Lawler said officals are also continuing to monitor grant funding to determine if and when they can secure those funds.

"If (an ash borer infestation) gets more serious, we will have to figure out how to handle it and will need to consider budgetary priorities when that occurs," he said. "As of now, we seem to be in decent shape with the threat and hope that continues."