Tree-destroying beetle confirmed in a Colorado county

DENVER (AP) - A tree-killing beetle has been confirmed in a Colorado city despite preventative efforts.

The Denver Post reports that the Colorado State Forest Service announced the first confirmed case of the emerald ash borer in Broomfield County outside of a federal quarantine area.

Experts say the insect was first discovered in September 2013 when the quarantine area was created in Boulder County.

Experts say the beetle has been confirmed in Gunbarrel, Longmont, Lafayette, Lyons and Superior since the insect was first found in the state.

Experts say it’s unknown whether the insect arrived naturally or through human transportation.

Infected trees usually lose leaves at the top of the canopy and the die-off spreads downward. The trees usually die within four years.

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Information from: The Denver Post, http://www.denverpost.com