Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has reported the presence of emerald ash borer (EAB) in three new locations across the state. The pest was identified for the first time in Aitkin County, bringing the total number of affected counties to 54. In Pine and St. Louis counties, new infestations were found, leading to expanded quarantine areas. Although no new EAB cases were discovered in Mille Lacs County, its quarantine zone is also being enlarged due to proximity to Aitkin County.

In Aitkin County's Malmo Township, a county forester detected signs of EAB at a timber sale site and alerted state officials for verification. In Pine County's Norman Township, an EAB find submitted by a local resident was confirmed by the MDA. Meanwhile, in St. Louis County's City of Virginia, an EAB report was validated through the department’s online Report a Pest service.

Emerald ash borer larvae are known for killing ash trees by tunneling under their bark and disrupting nutrient flow within the tree trunk. Infested trees often exhibit signs such as woodpecker activity or split bark revealing S-shaped galleries underneath.

Due to these findings, emergency quarantines are being enacted by the MDA in Aitkin County and parts of Mille Lacs, Pine, and St. Louis counties. These quarantines restrict moving firewood and ash material out of these regions to curb further spread.

The MDA plans a virtual informational meeting on March 26 from 10–11 a.m., where experts will present information followed by a Q&A session. Residents can register at www.mda.state.mn.us/eab.

Public input on proposed emergency quarantines is welcome until May 5, with formal adoption recommended on May 6. Comments can be made during the virtual meeting or directed to Kimberly Thielen Cremers at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

For more details about EAB management efforts and quarantine specifics, visit the MDA website.