Cull Of The Wild

The Toledo Blade is reporting that the focus on management of the emerald ash borer beetle (Agrilus planipennis) is having unintended effects on Ohio's forests. A researcher at Kent State University, Constance Hausman, has found that forests where infested ash trees have been removed are being invaded by non-native plant species like garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) and Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense). The likely suspect is physical disturbance being caused by the heavy-duty tree-removal equipment. The article also mentions the work of University of Toledo researcher Elliot Tramer, who notes that the prevalence of ash borer beetles has been a boon for red-bellied woodpeckers.