CAMDEN (AP) — Maine conservationists and state officials are calling for residents to participate in a tree-tagging event to raise awareness of the invasive emerald ash borer.

The emerald ash borer is a beetle that could cause serious damage to Maine forests and its timber industry. It has been seen in New Hampshire.

Officials at the Merryspring Nature Center in Camden, Maine, and the state Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry are asking residents to gather at Merryspring on Friday at 9 a.m. for the event. Volunteers will identify, inspect and tag ash trees to raise awareness about the emerald ash borer.

Officials say the program is designed to teach the public how to identify the beetle, recognize signs of infestation and report findings.

The event does not require registration.