Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has confirmed the presence of emerald ash borer (EAB) in Itasca County, marking the first detection in this area. This discovery brings the total number of counties with EAB to 59 across the state.

The infestation was initially reported by a homeowner near Pokegama Lake, south of Grand Rapids. A forest health specialist from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed the presence of EAB larvae at the site.

EAB was first identified in Minnesota in 2009. The larvae are known to kill ash trees by tunneling under their bark and disrupting nutrient flow. Signs of infestation include woodpecker activity and splitting bark that reveals S-shaped galleries beneath.

In response to this new finding, MDA is implementing an emergency quarantine for southeastern Itasca County. This measure restricts moving firewood and ash materials out of the area to prevent further spread.

Quarantines are standard practice for areas affected by EAB, aimed at minimizing its spread. To inform residents and tree care professionals, MDA will host a virtual informational meeting on July 29, 2025, from 10–11 a.m., where experts will present information followed by a Q&A session.

Residents can register for this meeting at www.mda.state.mn.us/emerald-ash-borer-quarantine. Additionally, public input is sought regarding adding Itasca County's emergency quarantine to the state's formal quarantine list. Comments are accepted until September 5, 2025, with plans to adopt it formally on September 8, 2025. Details are available at www.mda.state.mn.us/eab.

Comments can be submitted during the virtual meeting or directed to Mark Abrahamson at MDA via email or mail:

Mark Abrahamson

Minnesota Department of Agriculture

625 Robert Street North

St. Paul, MN 55155

Mark.Abrahamson@state.mn.us

Further information about EAB is accessible on the MDA website.