Emerald Ash Borer Found in St. Cloud

(KNSI) – A dreaded pest that’s killed countless ash trees across the nation and Minnesota has been found in St. Cloud.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture says emerald ash borer has been discovered in the city. The insect’s larvae kill ash trees by tunneling under the bark and feeding on the part of the tree that moves nutrients up and down the trunk. According to the MDA, Minnesota is highly susceptible to the destruction caused by the insect because the state is home to approximately one billion ash trees, the most in the nation.

The biggest risk of spreading EAB is unknowingly moving firewood or other ash products with the larvae. People are advised to buy firewood locally from approved vendors. Authorities say to burn it where you buy it.

Officials are asking residents to check their trees for signs of the invasive species:

• Be sure you’ve identified an ash tree. This is an important first step since EAB only feeds on ash trees. Ash trees have opposite branching – meaning branches come off the trunk directly across from each other. On older trees, the bark is in a tight, diamond-shaped pattern. Younger trees have relatively smooth bark.

• Look for woodpecker damage. Woodpeckers like EAB larvae and woodpecker holes may indicate the presence of EAB.

• Check for bark cracks. EAB larvae tunneling under the bark can cause the bark to split open, revealing the larval (S-shaped) tunnels underneath.

• Contact a professional. If you feel your ash tree may be infested with EAB, contact a tree care professional, your city forester, or the MDA at reportapest@state.mn.us or 888-545-6684 (voicemail).

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