When it comes to invasive species, it can often be very difficult to find natural barriers to their spread. The emerald ash borer is a destructive beetle that has managed to kill millions of Ash trees in the past decade alone, and cities are doing everything they can to keep it away as it continues to eat its way across the U.S.
The beetle is native to Asia, and first appeared in the U.S. back in 2002. From Detroit it started to spread and spread — its larvae do most of the damage, feeding on the vascular tissues of trees, essentially starving them of nutrients.
Many cities are taking aggressive action in order to preemptively strike against the growth of the ash borer’s territory, even going so far as to cut down healthy trees so that they can be replaced with tree species the borer avoids. Already, the insect has spread to 22 states, and has killed about 200 million ash trees.
If your trees become damaged either as a result of insect activity, weather, or anything else, it’s important to remove it quickly so that it does not further impact your property. A dying tree can cause damage when it falls, and a sick tree can infect others around it.
Tree Removal Services
- When you need a tree removed, it’s a good idea to contact a professional company that can make sure your tree is disposed of properly and safely. Only work with tree removal companies that are properly insured, so that if something happens during the removal process, you will not be held liable.
- Although it can be tempting to just call up the cheapest tree removal contractors, make sure you’re getting value for your money. Do they come recommended by others in your local area, either by word-of-mouth or through online reviews?
- Make sure that removal is the right option before you get rid of your tree. Many trees may look droopy when all they need is the right application of pesticide, water, or pruning. Sometimes it pays to have someone look at it before removal specialists arrive.
What to Expect
- The average cost of tree removal services varies widely depending on the size and location of your tree. A 50 foot tree will probably be more expensive to cut by foot, and might cost as much as $1,000. A 20 foot tree, on the other hand, might cost you as little as $200. A medium sized tree is 50 feet tall and will cost $9 per foot for an average price of $450.
- If you’re undecided about getting the stump removed, consider that they can be a pain to mow around, they can attract insects, and they aren’t very attractive to look at.
Are you in need of tree removal services? Let us know in the comments.
