By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has confirmed the presence of emerald ash borer (EAB) in Todd County for the first time. With this discovery, the total number of affected counties in Minnesota has reached 60. The pest was found in ash trees located along State Highway 28 near Burtrum.
Emerald ash borer is a harmful insect that damages and kills ash trees. The larvae feed beneath the bark, affecting the tree’s ability to move water and nutrients. Over time, this causes the tree to weaken and die. Signs of infestation may include woodpecker activity, as these birds feed the larvae. In addition, the bark may split open, showing unique S-shaped patterns underneath.
EAB was first identified in Minnesota in 2009. Since then, efforts have been made to slow its spread and protect ash trees. Due to this new detection, the MDA has placed an emergency quarantine on Todd County. This quarantine restricts the movement of firewood and ash materials outside the area. These measures are important to prevent the pest from spreading to new regions.
The MDA will host a virtual informational meeting for residents and tree care professionals. Experts will explain the situation and answer questions. The meeting will be held on May 14, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Interested participants can register here.
The public can also share feedback on making the emergency quarantine permanent. Comments will be accepted until June 5, 2026. More information is available at the EAB for information on the MDA website. These steps aim to protect trees and reduce the impact of this harmful insect.
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Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy