Question
Hi Jim.  We have 2 beautiful pin oaks that my husband says he's pretty sure have bore worms. We bought bore worm mix to put on but I ran across your sight and thought I'd ask you first.  We live 60 miles south of Chicago.  I don't have any pictures but I can take some if it will help.
Thanks.
Paula

Answer
Certain specific external signs indicate internal red oak borer damage in host trees: extruded frass , discolored bark patches , wet spots , wood slivers , and exit holes . These surface indicators have been associated with different stages of larval development during the insects' 2-year life cycle, and therefore can be associated with defects in lumber and other wood products.

The fine larval frass  is found during the first fall and winter after eggs hatch. Wet spots  and medium-sized larval frass can be found during the first spring and early summer. Discolored bark patches  and large quantities of larval frass occur in the second fall and winter . Wood slivers are extruded in the spring and early summer just before the adult emerges . The adult exits through an oval hole which it chews in the bark .

The trunk of the tree where the damage is showing should be sprayed with an insecticide. Onxy or Merit are two insecticides that will work well. There are others under other names that also will work. Look on the label for directions for borer control on trees.