The City of Dallas is continuing its efforts to monitor and manage the spread of the emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive wood‑boring insect that threatens ash trees across North Texas. Working in partnership with the Texas A&M Forest Service (TFS) and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), the City remains actively engaged in tracking EAB activity and implementing its EAB Action Plan.
EAB has been confirmed throughout the city. Recent monitoring has confirmed ongoing EAB presence within Dallas city limits, including areas near Texas State Highway Loop 12 and Interstate 30, as well as within the Great Trinity Forest. These findings follow earlier detections near Dowdy Ferry Road and Interstate 20 in 2023 and demonstrate the insect’s continued movement throughout the region.
To help protect the urban tree canopy, City staff continue proactive inspection, treatment and mitigation efforts. Since fall 2022, more than 300 ash trees have received preventive treatment. Retreatments are scheduled biennially and additional trees will be treated in spring 2027. Staff are prioritizing significant ash trees, generally those 15 inches or larger in diameter and in good condition, or part of large groves and removing heavily infested trees that pose safety risks. Reforestation plantings are planned in the Great Trinity Forest to offset anticipated ash tree loss. The Forestry Technical Team is actively locating and removing dead and dying ash trees from parks, trails and other city properties.
Residents can report suspected EAB infestations through the City’s “Emerald Ash Borer Information” service request, which also provides guidance on identifying signs of EAB and managing affected trees. To report, call 311 or submit the service request via the Dallas 311 mobile app.
Dallas County remains under a state‑mandated quarantine, along with several surrounding counties. The quarantine, enforced by the TDA, restricts the movement of ash wood, ash logs, wood waste and hardwood firewood from quarantined areas to help slow further spread of the insect.
Recent Quarantine Expansions
Statewide monitoring has led to additional counties being included in the quarantine zone:
• May 27, 2025: Bell, Jack, Navarro, Rockwall and Somervell counties
• December 15, 2025: Upshur County
These additions highlight the growing presence of EAB throughout Texas and reinforce the importance of following quarantine guidelines.
The City of Dallas will continue monitoring EAB activity, conducting tagging and treatment work and providing education and outreach to residents and local businesses. Community awareness and cooperation remain essential to managing the long‑term impacts of this invasive pest.
For more information on identifying ash trees, recognizing EAB symptoms and protecting trees on private property, visit the City of Dallas Forestry website at bit.ly/CODforestry or the EAB Information Center at bit.ly/DallasEABinfo.