In March of 2010, the emerald ash borer made its presence known in the Minneapolis area. Firewood transportation bans and purchasing restrictions have been in effect ever since in an effort to minimize the insect’s influence. However, the pests are still causing problems.
Recently, the insect has been found in 200 trees on the grounds of the Fort Snelling Golf Club.
This week, the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board has begun tree removal in response to the discovery of infestation. The process should take the entire week, and the trees will either be disposed or reclaimed.
More ash trees will be removed from six nearby golf courses to proactively reduce risk of further infestation.
Do You have Ash Trees?
If you have ash trees as a part of your home’s landscaping which are infested by this pest, consider removing them during the winter months. These insects go into hibernation when the temperature drops, so they’re less likely to spread to uninfected trees when the one they’re in is cut down.
Like most animals, this insect is most active in the summer months. This means they’re more likely to move to healthy trees when the one they’re in is removed when the weather is warm.
To avoid healthy trees from being infested, remove affected trees in the winter, follow guidelines set forth by the Parks and Recreation department, educate yourself on symptoms of emerald ash borer infestation and regularly inspect any ash trees on your property.
Unfortunately, the best way to remove the insects is to remove the tree they dwell in.
It may be difficult to part with these beautiful trees, since they add an impact to each unique landscape and offer shade, but when they’re diseased, they need to be removed and replaced to prevent the problem from getting worse.
