DETROIT -- A team of scientists from the Michigan Department of Agriculture is trying to save southeast Michigan's ash trees.

The scientists are concerned about the emerald ash borer, an aggressive beetle that bores into the bark of ash trees. The beetle digs canals under the bark where it lays its larva.

The beetle is native to Asia, and researchers are trying to determine how it made its way to the region.

Homeowners across the region are finding signs the beetle has damaged their trees, Local 4 reported.

In Northville, for example, one neighborhood is seeing dozens of ash trees dying because of the beetle infestation.

Trees in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Livingston counties are under quarantine, Local 4 reported.

Trees should be watered and fertilized to help fight off the beetles.

Michigan State University researcher David Roberts has been tracking the decline of ash trees in southeast Michigan. He has chronicled the saga online, and provides information on protecting trees that can be accessed by clicking here.