Methods

This section outlines the methods used to formulate this EAB case study. Because there has been no known host expansion, distribution of Fraxinus species is the focus of the first subsection of methods procedure. Our assumption that it takes about 6 years for an area to reach peak infestation led to compilation of pre-existing as well as newly acquired datasets to map EAB spread. This investigation allowed spread model development adapted to EAB by mode of transport modifications.

The four methods subsections provide the model framework used to further study EAB infestations. Together with results found, there is hope for understanding and proactivity regarding the negative impacts EAB may have on ash species nationwide.

The following links expound upon the four steps used during this study: A coarse-scale and fine-level analysis of ash distribution was developed. Spread rate was mapped from 1998-2005. An aquisition database was developed to faciliate future research, and models were created using collected data to predict potential movements of the EAB.

Subsections found in Methods

• Distribution of Ash : Fraxinus (ash) is the only genus that EAB has attacked in North America.
• Mapping Estimated EAB Spread, 1998-2005 : To model potential future spread and assess observed spread rates, a preliminary map of historical spread was created.
• Modeling Spread in Ohio : Most of the data collected in the preceding sections was a prerequisite for efforts to model the spread of the EAB.

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