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Emerald Ash Borer Detected In Decatur

The Illinois Department of Agriculture says the tree-killing emerald ash borer has been detected in the city of Decatur.

Members of the local forestry staff discovered the insect in a tree on the east end of the city. The insect and a tree sample were sent to the Agriculture Department for testing, which confirmed the infestation.

The small, metallic-green beetle native to Asia has since 2002 decimated ash trees in this nation.

Agriculture authorities say the ash borer's larvae feed on the inner bark of trees, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients. But the insect doesn't pose any direct risk to public health.

According to officials, there are about 22 counties in Illinois that have confirmed infestations of emerald ash borer.

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