Invasive Pests and Pathogens

Last Reviewed by MLTC: 03/31/2026.

Information on invasive forest pests and soil organisms in Massachusetts, including identification, ecological impacts, and management considerations for ash decline and soil alteration.

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB):

1. Emerald Ash Borer in Massachusetts (Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation)
    Explains EAB distribution, spread pathways, and identification in Massachusetts, providing context for recognizing presence and understanding local extent.
    Resource: https://www.mass.gov/guides/emerald-ash-borer-in-massachusetts
2. Managing Northeastern Forests Threatened by Emerald Ash Borer (Catanzaro, Paul et al.)
    Outlines forest management approaches for ash decline, including regeneration, retention, and maintaining forest function following EAB impacts.
    Document: managing_new_england_forests_threatened_by_eab.pdf

Invasive Earthworms:

3. Earthworms in Massachusetts – History, Concerns, and Benefits (Tawny Simisky & Dr. Olga Kostromytska, 2021)
    Describes origin, distribution, and ecological effects of non-native earthworms in Massachusetts.
    Resource: https://www.umass.edu/agriculture-food-environment/landscape/fact-sheets/earthworms-in-massachusetts-history-concerns-benefits
4. Non-Native Invasive Earthworms in the Midwest and Eastern United States (Keller & Handler, 2024)
    Summarizes impacts of invasive earthworms on soil structure, nutrient cycling, and forest ecosystems across the region.
    Document: Read the article