Emerald Ash Borer
Attacking our trees
Emerald ash borer (EAB) is a destructive insect that has killed millions of ash trees in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Ontario, Canada, since being discovered in the U.S. in the early 2000s. EAB has spread into Wisconsin and Minnesota with the 2009 confirmation in St. Paul, then Minneapolis, and Apple Valley in 2015. EAB attacks all species of ash trees and typically causes tree death within a few years.
Forestry staff routinely inspect ash trees for symptoms of EAB and offer inspections to property owners. As of 2021, confirmed EAB infestations have been found citywide and in each of the cities surrounding Apple Valley. Infested trees are required per City Ordinance (152.45) to be properly removed and disposed of to limit the spread to healthy Ash trees.
Residents are advised to develop a plan for any ash trees on private property. Currently, there is no known cure or widespread prevention for this destructive insect. A high-valued landscape tree can be protected by various preventative insecticide treatments. Please see the “Emerald Ash Borer Injection Program” link below for more information on a discounted program for residents.
Forestry staff routinely inspect ash trees for symptoms of EAB and offer inspections to property owners. As of 2021, confirmed EAB infestations have been found citywide and in each of the cities surrounding Apple Valley. Infested trees are required per City Ordinance (152.45) to be properly removed and disposed of to limit the spread to healthy Ash trees.
Residents are advised to develop a plan for any ash trees on private property. Currently, there is no known cure or widespread prevention for this destructive insect. A high-valued landscape tree can be protected by various preventative insecticide treatments. Please see the “Emerald Ash Borer Injection Program” link below for more information on a discounted program for residents.
Forestry staff suggest treating prized trees, taking down less desirable trees, and planting new trees with diversity in mind. Please do not move ash wood out of quarantined counties, including Dakota County. While mature EAB beetles are capable of flying a few miles, the natural spread of EAB occurs at a slow rate of about ½ mile per year. Human practices are responsible for accelerated rates of establishment by moving firewood. For more information about EAB visit the resources below or contact Apple Valley Natural Resources at 952.953.2400 or natresource@ci.apple-valley.mn.us.