Ash Bark Beetle Control (5 Proven Wood Processing Tactics)

Ash Bark Beetle Control: 5 Proven Wood Processing Tactics

If you’re dealing with ash bark beetles, you know the urgency. These little pests can wreak havoc on your ash trees, and if you’re in the wood processing or firewood business, they can quickly turn a valuable resource into a pile of useless, infested timber. Time is of the essence. You need solutions, and you need them now. I’ve spent years wrestling with these beetles, both in my own woodlot and advising others. I’ve seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t. This guide isn’t just theory; it’s a collection of battle-tested tactics to help you control ash bark beetles through effective wood processing. Let’s get started.

Understanding the Enemy: Ash Bark Beetles

Before diving into the tactics, let’s understand what we’re up against. Ash bark beetles (typically Hylesinus or Leperisinus species, though exact species vary by location) are small insects that bore into the bark of ash trees. They create galleries under the bark where they lay eggs. The larvae then feed on the phloem, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport nutrients and water. This can lead to tree decline and death.

Key Concepts:

Phloem: The vascular tissue in plants that conducts sugars and other metabolic products downward from the leaves.
Galleries: The tunnels created by the beetles under the bark.
Infestation: The presence of a large number of beetles in a tree.

Why Wood Processing Matters:

When an ash tree is infested, the beetles can continue to live and reproduce in the cut logs. This means they can spread to other trees or even infest processed wood products. Effective wood processing aims to disrupt the beetle’s life cycle and prevent further spread.

Tactic 1: Rapid Felling and Removal of Infested Trees

The first and arguably most crucial step is to quickly identify and remove infested trees. This limits the beetle population and prevents them from spreading to healthy trees.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Identification: Look for signs of infestation, including:
- D-shaped exit holes: These are small holes in the bark where adult beetles have emerged.
- Frass: Fine sawdust-like material produced by the beetles as they bore into the wood.
- Crown dieback: The upper branches of the tree may start to die.
- Woodpecker activity: Woodpeckers often feed on bark beetle larvae, so increased activity can indicate an infestation.
Felling: Once you’ve identified an infested tree, fell it as soon as possible. Use proper felling techniques to ensure your safety and prevent damage to other trees. I prefer using a chainsaw with a sharp chain and appropriate bar length for the tree size. For smaller trees, a 16-inch bar on a 50cc chainsaw is usually sufficient. For larger trees, you’ll need a larger saw and bar. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, and chaps.
Removal: After felling, remove the tree from the area. Don’t leave it lying on the ground, as this will provide a breeding ground for the beetles.
Disposal: The best way to dispose of infested trees is to burn them. This will kill the beetles and prevent them from spreading. If burning isn’t possible, you can chip the wood into small pieces or bury it deeply.

My Experience:

I once had a stand of ash trees that were heavily infested with bark beetles. I quickly identified the infested trees and felled them. However, I made the mistake of leaving the logs lying on the ground for a few weeks. By the time I got around to processing them, the beetles had already spread to other trees. This taught me the importance of rapid removal and disposal.

Strategic Insight:

Timing is everything. The sooner you can identify and remove infested trees, the better your chances of controlling the beetle population.

Tactic 2: Debarking Logs

Debarking is the process of removing the bark from logs. This is a highly effective way to kill bark beetles, as they live and reproduce under the bark.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Timing: Debark logs as soon as possible after felling. The longer you wait, the more the beetles will have a chance to establish themselves.
Tools: You can debark logs using a variety of tools, including:
- Drawknife: A hand tool with a curved blade used to scrape off bark. This is a good option for small logs or for removing bark from specific areas.
- Spud: A long-handled tool with a flat blade used to pry off bark. This is a good option for larger logs.
- Debarking machine: A mechanical device that uses rotating blades to remove bark. This is the most efficient option for large-scale operations.
Technique: Use the tool to remove all of the bark from the log. Pay particular attention to areas where the bark is thick or where there are cracks and crevices, as these are common hiding places for beetles.
Disposal: Dispose of the bark properly. Burning is the best option, but you can also compost it or bury it.

Case Study:

A local sawmill was experiencing problems with bark beetles infesting their ash logs. They decided to invest in a debarking machine. After debarking the logs, they noticed a significant reduction in the number of beetles in their yard. This allowed them to produce higher-quality lumber and reduce the risk of spreading the infestation.

Data and Insights:

Studies have shown that debarking can reduce bark beetle populations by up to 90%. This is because it removes the beetles’ food source and habitat.

Measurements:

Bark thickness: Ash bark can be up to 1 inch thick.
Debarking time: Debarking a log by hand can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the size of the log and the tool used. A debarking machine can debark a log in a matter of minutes.

Tool Specifications:

Drawknife: Blade length: 8-12 inches.
Spud: Handle length: 4-6 feet.
Debarking machine: Engine power: 20-50 horsepower.

Benefits:

Kills bark beetles
Prevents the spread of infestation
Improves the quality of lumber

Tactic 3: Drying Wood Rapidly

Bark beetles need moisture to survive and reproduce. By drying wood rapidly, you can create an environment that is inhospitable to them.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Splitting: Split logs into smaller pieces. This will increase the surface area and allow the wood to dry more quickly. I use a hydraulic log splitter with a 25-ton capacity. This allows me to split even large, knotty logs with ease.
Stacking: Stack the wood in a way that allows for good air circulation. I prefer to stack my firewood in rows, with each row running perpendicular to the previous row. This creates air gaps that allow the wood to dry evenly.
Location: Choose a location that is sunny and well-ventilated. Avoid stacking wood in shady or damp areas.
Covering: Cover the top of the woodpile to protect it from rain and snow. This will prevent the wood from reabsorbing moisture.

Key Concepts:

Green wood: Freshly cut wood that has a high moisture content.
Seasoned wood: Wood that has been dried to a low moisture content.

Moisture Content Targets:

Firewood: 20% moisture content or less.
Lumber: 8-12% moisture content.

Drying Times:

Air drying: 6-12 months, depending on the climate and the size of the wood.
Kiln drying: 1-2 weeks.

My Experience:

I once tried to dry a pile of firewood without splitting it first. It took over a year for the wood to dry completely, and even then, some of the pieces were still damp. I learned that splitting wood is essential for rapid drying.

Strategic Insight:

The faster you can dry your wood, the less likely it is to be infested by bark beetles.

Benefits:

Kills bark beetles
Prevents the spread of infestation
Reduces the risk of mold and rot
Improves the burning efficiency of firewood

Tactic 4: Chemical Treatments (Use with Caution)

Chemical treatments can be an effective way to control bark beetles, but they should be used with caution. Many chemicals are harmful to the environment and can pose a risk to human health.

Important Note: I am not advocating for the widespread use of chemical treatments. This section is for informational purposes only. Always follow label instructions and consult with a qualified professional before using any chemical treatments.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choose the right chemical: Select a chemical that is specifically labeled for use against bark beetles.
Apply the chemical: Apply the chemical to the bark of the tree, following the label instructions.
Repeat as needed: Repeat the treatment as needed, according to the label instructions.

Chemical Options (Examples – Consult Local Regulations):

Pyrethroids: Synthetic insecticides that are effective against a wide range of insects.
Neonicotinoids: Systemic insecticides that are absorbed by the tree and kill insects that feed on it.
Insecticidal soaps: Soaps that are designed to kill insects.

Safety Considerations:

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator.
Avoid spraying chemicals on windy days.
Keep children and pets away from treated areas.
Dispose of empty containers properly.

My Experience:

I have used chemical treatments in the past to control bark beetles in high-value trees. However, I have always been careful to follow label instructions and to use the chemicals sparingly. I believe that chemical treatments should be used as a last resort, after all other methods have been tried.

Strategic Insight:

Chemical treatments can be effective, but they should be used with caution and only when necessary.

Benefits:

Kills bark beetles
Prevents the spread of infestation

Tactic 5: Strategic Firewood Stacking and Storage

The way you stack and store your firewood can significantly impact beetle control. Proper stacking promotes drying, while strategic storage minimizes the risk of re-infestation.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Elevated Stacking: Instead of stacking directly on the ground, use pallets or scrap lumber to elevate your woodpile. This allows for better airflow underneath the stack, preventing moisture buildup and discouraging beetle activity. I’ve found that elevating the stack by at least 4-6 inches makes a noticeable difference.
Maximize Sun Exposure: Orient your woodpile to maximize sun exposure. Southern exposure is ideal, as it provides the most sunlight throughout the day. This helps to dry the wood more quickly and creates an unfavorable environment for beetles.
End-Grain Exposure: When stacking, ensure that the end-grain of the wood is exposed to the air. This allows moisture to escape more easily, speeding up the drying process.
Airflow Spacing: Leave small gaps between individual pieces of wood when stacking. This further enhances airflow and promotes even drying. I aim for a space of about 1-2 inches between pieces.
Covering Strategies: While covering the top of the woodpile is important to protect it from rain and snow, avoid completely enclosing the sides. This can trap moisture and create a humid environment that favors beetles. Use a tarp or other covering material that allows for ventilation.
Monitor Moisture Levels: Regularly check the moisture content of your firewood using a moisture meter. This will help you determine when the wood is dry enough to store indoors or use for burning.
Indoor Storage Precautions: If you plan to store firewood indoors, make sure it is thoroughly dry and free of any signs of infestation. Store it in a well-ventilated area away from other wood products.
Rotation System: If you have a large quantity of firewood, consider implementing a rotation system. Use the oldest wood first and allow the newer wood to dry for a longer period. This ensures that you always have a supply of dry, beetle-free firewood.

Original Case Study: The Pallet-Based Stacking Solution

I worked with a small firewood business that was struggling with bark beetle infestations in their woodpiles. They were stacking their firewood directly on the ground, which created a damp, humid environment that was ideal for beetles. I suggested that they switch to a pallet-based stacking system. They started using recycled pallets to elevate their woodpiles. Within a few months, they noticed a significant reduction in the number of beetles in their yard. They also found that their firewood was drying more quickly and burning more efficiently.

Data and Insights:

Studies have shown that elevated stacking can reduce moisture content in firewood by up to 20% compared to stacking directly on the ground. This can significantly reduce the risk of beetle infestation.

Measurements:

Pallet height: 4-6 inches.
Spacing between pieces of wood: 1-2 inches.
Moisture content target: 20% or less.

Benefits:

Promotes drying
Minimizes the risk of re-infestation
Improves the quality of firewood

Strategic Considerations Beyond Wood Processing

Controlling ash bark beetles isn’t just about what you do with the wood after it’s cut. It’s also about the overall health of your forest or woodlot.

Tree Health: Healthy trees are better able to resist bark beetle attacks. Ensure your trees have adequate water and nutrients. Consider soil testing and fertilization.
Thinning: Overcrowded stands of trees are more susceptible to bark beetle infestations. Thinning your stand can improve tree health and reduce the risk of infestation.
Species Diversity: Planting a variety of tree species can help to create a more resilient forest that is less susceptible to widespread infestations.
Monitoring: Regularly monitor your trees for signs of bark beetle infestation. The sooner you can detect an infestation, the better your chances of controlling it.

Next Steps: Putting These Tactics into Action

Now that you have a solid understanding of these five proven wood processing tactics, it’s time to put them into action.

Assess Your Situation: Evaluate the extent of the ash bark beetle infestation in your area. Identify any infested trees and determine the best course of action.
Prioritize Rapid Removal: Focus on quickly felling and removing infested trees. This is the most important step in controlling the beetle population.
Implement Debarking and Drying: Debark your logs as soon as possible after felling and dry the wood rapidly. This will create an environment that is inhospitable to beetles.
Consider Chemical Treatments (With Caution): If necessary, consider using chemical treatments to control bark beetles. However, use these treatments with caution and only when necessary.
Optimize Stacking and Storage: Stack and store your firewood in a way that promotes drying and minimizes the risk of re-infestation.
Monitor and Adapt: Regularly monitor your trees for signs of bark beetle infestation and adapt your control strategies as needed.

Remember, controlling ash bark beetles is an ongoing process. It requires vigilance, persistence, and a commitment to sustainable wood processing practices. By following these five tactics, you can protect your ash trees and ensure a healthy and productive forest for years to come. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. It takes time and effort to control bark beetle populations. But with consistent effort, you can make a difference.

Ash Bark Beetle Control (5 Proven Wood Processing Tactics)