Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Two Nearby Counties

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture says emerald ash borer has been confirmed in two new locations, including east St. Cloud and Milaca.

They are the first known infestations in Benton and Mille Lacs Counties. The insects were noticed by tree care professionals who were hired to clear branches back from powerlines. Emerald ash borers grow to about a 1/2 inch long as adults and have a distinct metallic green color. They do their most damage to ash trees as larvae, where they feed on the inner bark.

Millions of the trees have been lost since the insects were first discovered in a suburb of Detroit, Michigan, in 2002. They have now been confirmed in 35 states and several Canadian provinces. In Minnesota, emerald ash borers have been found in 44 counties.

While most of the damage from emerald ash borer happens under the surface, adults leave D-shaped holes as they emerge from the wood in the spring. Woodpecker activity is another potential sign of infestation.

You can help stop the spread by avoiding moving firewood.

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