LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Officials in Lincoln say the emerald ash borer would cost the city $23 million over 13 years if it starts to consume ash trees in the area.

The bug has not been confirmed in Nebraska, but some experts fear it’s already in the state. It has been sighted in Lawrence, Kansas.

Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department director Lynn Johnson says the city has about 12,000 ash trees. The cost estimate is based on the projected expense of treating, removing and planting new trees, as well as buying new equipment and educating the public.

Johnson says he doesn’t know how the city will address the potential problem. A bond issue is one possibility, or communities could join forces to ask the Legislature for help.