Emerald Ash Borer Traces

 Emerald Ash Borers are a small greenish blue beetle native to North-East Asia. They were introduced to the United States via wood from a shipping crate in 2002. The invasive female Emerald Ash Borers lay eggs in the bark crevices of ash trees, and the larvae feed underneath the bark of ash trees, damaging the integrity of the trees leaving a swirly pattern in the bark. The ash borers emerge as adults in one to two years, often killing the trees in the process. Emerald Ash borers are devastating the Black Ash populations across the United States. Not only does this invasive species cause environmental destruction but it is also threatening cultural heritage. Generations of indigenous weavers have utilized Black Ash, with its sturdy, flexible wood, as a material to weave into beautiful baskets. These Black Ash Baskets are socially significant and provide a vital source of income. This piece was created using hand mixed natural oil paint made from minerals and walnut oil. 

Source: Emerald Ash Borer Information Network