Kiln and microwave heat treatment of logs infested by the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)

Invasive alien pest species periodically infest forests in North America and worldwide, resulting in significant economic and ecological losses for areas involved. One common approach used to control pests is the establishment of quarantine zones, which impose limitations on circulation of products and therefore affect the economic viability of goods already affected by the infestation. This project investigated the use of kiln and microwave heat treatments for the sanitization of emerald ash borer infested logs. Four treatment temperatures of 50, 55, 60, and 65 °C were used; the logs were evaluated for insect emergence after appropriate time for insect maturation. Results showed that the kiln temperature of 65 °C was successful at sanitizing infested logs. This level is slightly above the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) level of 56 °C for 30 minutes recommended for pallets and wood packaging material. Microwave treatments were not as effective as kiln treatments, probably due to uneven distribution of the heat inside the microwave. Approaches to improve the microwave treatment are proposed.