Emerald ash borer detected in two more Minnesota counties

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has announced the discovery of the emerald ash borer (EAB) in Renville and Pine counties for the first time, increasing the total to 50 counties in Minnesota dealing with this invasive pest.

The findings result from extensive EAB surveys conducted this fall and winter across nearly 200 communities in Minnesota, thanks to a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service.

In Renville County, the EAB infestation was in Danube along Highway 212, and in Pine County, it was found in Rock Creek along Highway 70. Since its initial discovery in the state in 2009, EAB has posed a significant threat to ash trees, killing them by tunneling under the bark to feed.

To mitigate the spread of EAB, the MDA has implemented an emergency quarantine in both Renville and Pine counties, restricting the movement of firewood, mulch, and ash materials from the areas.

A virtual informational meeting is scheduled for March 7, 2024, from 10-11 a.m., to provide residents and tree care professionals with more information and a platform for questions and answers. Registration for the meeting is available at the MDA's website.

The public is encouraged to provide input on the proposed formal quarantines for these counties through April 12, 2024, with the MDA recommending the adoption of the quarantines on April 15, 2024.

Comments can be made during the virtual meeting or by contacting Kimberly Thielen Cremers at kimberly.tcremers@state.mn.us. This proactive approach aims to protect Minnesota's forests and urban landscapes from the destructive impact of the emerald ash borer.

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