Ash

Ash trees were a common and important component of Iowa’s urban and community forests. Before the August 10, 2020 Derecho in Cedar Rapids and Marion, there were estimated 11,000 - 15,000 Ash trees making up about 50% of total street tree canopy. Because of the Emerald Ash Borer the trees were scheduled to be removed but the Derecho damage expedited this process. Ash has very good overall strength and is a hard wood. It is commonly used in furniture, flooring, tool handles, baseball bats, and turnings.