Emerald Ash Borer

The City of Little Canada has been taking necessary precautions to protect local ash trees that are infected by the Asian-native Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) beetle. So far 59 ash trees have been treated for EAB in our local parks and public property. The City received a grant from the Minnesota DNR to assist with EAB management in Little Canada for the removal and replacement of EAB-infested trees in parks and on public properties. In addition, dead ash trees along public Right-of-Way (ROW) areas throughout the City will be removed by the City. The City will also be creating an inventory of ROW trees and adopting an EAB management plan. 

Spooner Park and Pioneer Park will see the biggest impact with ash trees being removed. While new trees will be planted near the locations of the removed trees, the benefits of a mature tree will not be seen for a while.

What is an Emerald Ash Borer?
The EAB is a highly destructive non-native beetle that can attack all species of ash trees. EABs have an iridescent green color and are about 1/4 to 1/2 inches long. It is highly unlikely to see an EAB, but very likely to see its aftermath. 

How can I tell my tree has been infected by the EAB?
An easy way to spot an infected tree is by taking a look at the crown of the tree. The EAB burrows underneath the bark, and woodpeckers will peck holes to eat them (which is usually near the top of the tree). You may notice a lot of woodpecker holes or areas of dead branches on an ash tree. Another common sign is s-shaped galleries underneath the bark of the tree. This could include bark that is peeling away from the ash too.

Do you think your tree has EAB?
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture created a PDF that walks through the different ways to identify what insect may be killing your tree. This link also includes who to contact, and what the next steps are if you have a tree with EAB. Click the link here to view the PDF. 

How do I know if I have an ash tree?
Click this link to view the MnDNR's website with information on ash tree identification. 

What are the next steps?
The City has partnered with Rainbow Treecare to give residents a discounted rate on treating ash trees for EAB. Residents can contact Rainbow Treecare or another tree company to have their trees assessed and get recommendations on treatment or removal of their ash trees.

If the ash tree is beyond treatment or dead, it is the responsibility of the property owner to remove the tree. At this time, there are no grant funds available for private tree removal. 

If the tree is near the street please complete the form and City staff will determine if the tree is on public right-of-way and respond to your inquiry.

How can I help stop the spread of EAB?
1. Do NOT move firewood. The EAB can only fly half a mile each year. Because so many people have been hauling wood that is infected with EAB, they have been able to spread quickly throughout the state and country. Please protect our forests and purchase firewood locally within your county.
2. Report a Pest. If you see any signs of EAB damage please contact the DNR.