Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), an invasive insect from Asia, has spread to 36 US states and parts of Canada around 1990 since its arrival in Minnesota. It now threatens forests to the north of Cass County and is expected to reach Beltrami County soon. With an estimated 1 billion ash in Minnesota – many who are of crucial importance for wetland ecosystems – the death of these trees could significantly change the habitats of forests and damage local plant and animal species. The spread was supported by mild winter, the EAB larvae no longer killed as cold.
Ashes have long been planted in cities to replace Elms that have lost against the Dutch elm diseases and birches that are lost to bronze birch Boorer, but the rise of EAB has caused the cities to rethink this strategy. Municipalities now diversify tree plantings to reduce the risk of a future widespread loss. Homeowners with healthy ashes are recommended to plant replacement trees such as maple, birch or basswood this spring to ensure continued coverage of the canopy. In addition, the residents should avoid the firewood from ashes from affected areas because it can distribute the pest to new locations.
Early signs of an EAB infestation are thinning of tree evaluation, bark columns, D-shaped output holes and increased woodpeckers. After recognition, management options such as insecticide treatments can slow down the damage. Resources of expansion of the University of Minnesota provide guidelines for identification and treatment. While the management of EAB in large landscapes requires coordination between agencies and landowners, individuals can still have a meaningful influence by taking preventive steps and planting a variety of tree species to support long -term forest health.