Understanding Forest Landowner Attitudes, Perceived Risk, and Response to Emerald Ash Borer in Kentucky

Abstract

Emerald ash borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis), an invasive nonnative beetle, is responsible for the mortality of ash trees in the eastern and midwestern United States. Despite efforts to contain this beetle through various control options, human-induced spread of EAB has caused damage to ash forests in many states. Because most ash trees are under private ownership, it is important to understand how landowners evaluate the risk of EAB and perceive the effectiveness of various control options. A mail survey of private forest landowners was conducted in Kentucky in 2020 to assess their awareness and perception of various control options of EAB infestation. Results from this survey suggest that landowners are concerned about EAB and the associated increased risks, reduced quality of scenic views, and increased cleanup costs. Landowners experiencing EAB infestation believed that EAB management needs collective actions and that current efforts by government agencies are not sufficient. However, few landowners are taking actions themselves to manage EAB on their property. These findings shed light on the extent to which landowners are concerned about EAB impact and emphasize the need for development of effective control options and outreach programs to increase landowner engagement and actions in EAB control and management. Study implications: This study assessed forest landowners’ knowledge and attitudes about emerald ash borer (EAB) and their perceptions on the effectiveness of various control options. The majority of landowners who have EAB on their property expressed concerns about safety and aesthetics but were generally pessimistic about control efforts. Our results highlight the need for additional efforts to not only increase the adoption rate of possible EAB control options but also develop new ways to effectively manage EAB. Additionally, tailored outreach programs are critical to increase landowner engagement in controlling EAB infestation and the management of other similar forest health threats in the future.