Think Your Tree in Minnesota Has Emerald Ash Borer? Here’s What To Look For

If you have ash trees on your property, now might be a good time to walk around your yard and give them a good look.  Hopefully, you won't find what I did...evidence of emerald ash borer.

I was walking to my mailbox and noticed the bark around one of my trees looked like it was sliced down the side.  As I got closer, I could peel the bark away, and that is when I saw the tunnel lines.

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The emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle that is responsible for killing millions of ash trees throughout the United States.  Unfortunately, Minnesota isn't immune.  The emerald ash borer was found for the first time in our state in 2009, and this insect has killed trees in various counties.

Below are a few warning signs to look for in trees in your yard.

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What Is Emerald Ash Borer?

If you see a small metallic green beetle, there is a chance that this could be an emerald ash borer.  This insect lays eggs on the bark and when the larvae hatch they tunnel into the tree and feed on the tree's tissues under the bark.

Sadly, those tunnels are what prevent the tree from moving water and nutrients throughout the tree.  Sadly, without treatment, the trees that are infested often die within a few years.

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Signs Your Ash Tree May Be Infested By Emerald Ash Borer

Here are a few warning signs to watch out for that indicate an emerald ash borer may have infested your tree:

• dead branches near the top of the tree
• new shoots growing from the trunk or base of the tree
• thinning leaves in the upper canopy
• increased woodpecker activity
• D-shaped exit holes in the bark
• bark that is splitting that reveals winding tunnels underneath

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What To Do Next If You Think Your Tree Is Infested With Emerald Ash Borer

Trees that are infested with emerald ash borer do have a chance to be saved, but will require early treatment.  If you see warning signs and are suspicious of emerald ash borer, consider getting your tree inspected by a certified arborist to determine next steps.

If you suspect that your trees have been infested with emerald ash borers, do not transport firewood to new areas.  This is one of the prime ways this invasive beetle spreads.

According ot the University of Minnesota Extension, you are also asked to report any emerald ash borer beetles or tree symptoms that you spot at the Report a Pest website.