(24) Engaging in the EAB Battle - A Team Approach to Outreach and Education

Concurrent Session: A5:  Extension Program Examples

The emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) (EAB) is an exotic insect attacking an area exceeding 40,000 square miles, an invasive wood borer responsible for killing millions of ash (Fraxinus spp.) trees, and an opportunity for unlimited natural resource outreach opportunities.  Just like chestnut blight and Dutch elm disease before it, EAB is capable of eliminating an entire tree species from forests and cities throughout the land making it one of the most serious environmental threats now facing North American forests. 

The Ohio State University (OSU) has responded to this developing disaster by bringing program experts together from across the state to create the OSU EAB Outreach Team.   The team, with expertise in entomology, urban forestry, woodland management, forest products, wood utilization, forestry, community development, communications, and evaluation, has identified key internal and external audiences and immediately engaged each of those audiences.

The economic and ecological impact of the EAB has already been substantial, and it will be staggering as this exotic pest continues to spread.  Presenters will increase the knowledge and awareness that conference participants have of EAB.  Additionally, participants will be made aware of the programs, factsheets, bulletins, and other educational tools that have been created in Ohio and are available for their use.  Instead of reinventing program ideas, they will be able to find out what has work and how they ideas can adapted.  Supporting materials will be distributed as part of the session.

Kathy Smith
Ohio State University
210 Kottman Hall
2120 Coffey Road
Columbus, Ohio, 43210
phone: 614-688-3136
fax: 614-292-7432
smith.81@osu.edu

Amy Stone
Ohio State University
5403 Elmer Drive
Toledo, Ohio, 43615
phone: 419-578-6783
fax: 419-578-5367
stone.91@osu.edu