An invasive beetle that has beleaguered 18 other states including Massachusetts and Connecticut may have made its way to New Hampshire.
The Emerald Ash Borer has killed millions of Ash trees nationwide since being discovered in Michigan in 2002. Ash trees where the pest is found typically die within five years.
State entomologist Piera Siegert said Friday what she believes is Ash Borer larvae were found in a tree in the Concord area, but a federal specialist must confirm the beetle's presence. Agriculture Commissioner Lorraine Merrill said if confirmed, New Hampshire is prepared to deal with the pest.
After the beetle is discovered, the area must be quarantined to prevent its spread. If unchecked, they can devastate Ash tree populations, damaging forests.
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