In 2012, Leading-edge Tree Trunk Injection Treatments Saved The U.S. Economy Over $714 Million And Over 850,000 Trees

WOBURN, Mass., Jan. 31, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Destructive pests like the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) continued to wreak havoc on America's urban forests this past year, but preventative tree treatments from Arborjet have helped to stem the damaging tide.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130131/NE52224 )

The effects of these invasive tree pests and diseases are devastating. Since its arrival from Asia in 2002, EAB has destroyed over 60 million ash trees to date in the United States and Canada. And while it has been attacking trees in states like Illinois, Minnesota and Michigan for some time now, it was found for the first time this year even further east, in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Other tree pests are wreaking havoc as well. Spiraling Whitefly is causing visible damage to trees and property in Florida due to the sticky honeydew it produces that later grows unsightly black sooty mold. Diseases like Oak Wilt and Anthracnose cause significant damage and tree death.  Decline from malnutrition also weakens trees, further reducing their chances of survival.

Fortunately, there are ways to effectively prevent the destruction of America's valuable trees. Last year alone, over 850,000 trees were protected against tree pest attacks. These trees were protected via quick acting, long lasting trunk injection treatments from Arborjet, which develops remedies for some of the world's most destructive tree insects and diseases. The rescue of these trees has made a significant economic impact, saving the United States an estimated total of $714 million-- $612 million in tree removal and replacement costs, and an annual tree benefit value of $102 million in storm water runoff, property value, energy savings, and air quality (per the National Tree Benefit Calculator). Municipal leaders in over 100 cities have chosen Arborjet to protect treasured public trees that add character to these communities. Professionally-applied tree trunk injection treatments cost a fraction of what tree removal and replacement does, which can run well over $1,000 for a single tree.

With Arborjet, the appropriate formulation dose is injected directly into a tree's vascular system and moves quickly to the target area. Unlike other treatment methods such as spraying and soil drenching, tree trunk injections are sealed in the tree, limiting environmental exposure. Nothing is placed into the air or soil at the time of injection. The active ingredient keeps working through the tree's vascular system, providing long lasting protection. There is even one injectable treatment available that protects trees against 25 different insect species for up to two years and can stop damage if a tree is currently under attack.

"Forward-thinking municipalities and certified arborists are using trunk injections to ensure the country's trees in our urban forests and neighborhoods remain beautiful now and in the future," said Russ Davis, President and COO of Arborjet. "As an environmentally responsible treatment, trunk injections cost significantly less than removing and replacing mature trees and help preserve the environmental, economic and aesthetic benefits trees bring to us all."

In support of Arborjet's mission to sustain the future of the world's trees, the company inaugurated a grant program in 2012. These grants are designed to assist universities, Extension Services and non-profits with funding for research and education that will lead to new and innovative ways to protect the urban forest. Grant beneficiaries include:

Descanso Gardens
Huntington Library and Gardens
The TREE Fund
And a host of universities working on projects to protect the urban forest

Additionally, the company donated Arborjet products to help save 115 trees at a Boy Scout Camp in the Bastrop State Forest in Central Texas and 36 ash trees in Sanford Village Park in Michigan as part of an ongoing Eagle Scout service project.

Mr. Davis added, "With the downturn in the economy, funding for research in the field of urban forest protection has also faltered. Our hope is that by working with these organizations, we can continue advancing the industry and save our communities' trees."

About Arborjet
Founded in 1999, Arborjet's mission is to provide the most effective and environmentally responsible formulations and equipment to promote overall plant health care and to preserve our natural and urban forests. The company is committed to researching and developing remedies for the world's most invasive pest insects and diseases to support arborists and enable them to safely treat near waterways and highly populated areas. Arborjet's products are for both residential and commercial application and are distributed throughout the United States. Arborjet is headquartered in Woburn, MA. To learn more about tree health products provided by Arborjet visit www.arborjet.com.  

Contact
Erin Vadala, Warner Communications. 978-468-3076, [email protected]

SOURCE Arborjet