The Minnesota Department of Agriculture confirmed on April 28 that the emerald ash borer has been found in Todd County for the first time, bringing the total number of affected counties in the state to 60.
The discovery was made along State Highway 28, where department staff identified infested trees. The emerald ash borer, an invasive insect first detected in Minnesota in 2009, is known for killing ash trees by tunneling under their bark and feeding on tissue vital for moving nutrients within the tree. Signs of infestation include woodpecker holes and bark splitting that reveals S-shaped galleries beneath.
Because this is a new detection for Todd County, the department has enacted an emergency quarantine across the county to limit movement of firewood and ash material out of the area. This action aims to reduce further spread of the pest. The department issues quarantines wherever infestations are found as part of its ongoing efforts to protect local agriculture and consumers according to its official website.
A virtual informational meeting will be held for residents and tree care professionals on May 14 from 11 a.m. to noon. Participants can register online at https://www.mda.state.mn.us/emerald-ash-borer-quarantine. In addition, public comments on adding Todd County’s emergency quarantine to the state’s formal quarantine are being accepted through June 5, with adoption recommended for June 10.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture operates statewide and collaborates with federal partners such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture according to its official website. Its mission includes supporting economic health within agriculture while ensuring food quality according to agency information. Commissioner Thom Petersen leads these efforts according to agency sources.
Further details about EAB management and upcoming events are available on the department’s website.
