Emerald Ash Borer Infestation and Tree Removal Update

The City of Greater Sudbury is conducting a city-wide removal program for Ash trees located on municipal property. This initiative addresses the devastation caused by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) infestation, which has severely impacted Ash tree populations in Greater Sudbury and across much of eastern North America.

Only City-owned Ash trees are being removed, with approximately 1,500 affected trees situated beside roadways, in parks, cemeteries and Greater Sudbury Housing facilities. To ensure public safety, letters have been sent to residents whose streets are lined with these Ash trees, and contracted teams will begin removals on Thursday, November 7, 2024. The removal process may extend to the summer of 2025.

The City plans to replant a new tree where each diseased or dead Ash tree is removed, or as close to the original location as possible. Planting will occur under this program in 2025 and 2026, using 18 diverse tree species to strengthen the resilience of the urban forest.

Property owners are responsible for managing Ash trees on private properties and should consult local arborists for assessments and options related to maintenance, treatment or removal.

For more information on the City’s Ash tree removal and replanting program, visit greatersudbury.ca/EAB, or contact 311.

For more information regarding EAB, visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Website.