FILE - In this Oct. 26, 2011 file photo, the markings left from emerald ash borer larvae on an ash tree are pointed out in Saugerties, N.Y. The emerald ash borer, first found in 2002 in Michigan, is now in 30 states and has killed hundreds of millions of ash trees. Forests from New England to the West Coast are jeopardized by invasive pests that defoliate and kill trees. Scientists said the pests are driving some tree species toward extinction and causing billions of dollars a year in damage. (AP Photo/Mike Groll, File)

DENVER | A tree-killing beetle has been confirmed in Broomfield 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.

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