Another infestation of emerald ash borer found in Minn.

Emerald ash borer
The emerald ash borer is responsible for millions of dollars of damage to ash trees in Michigan, and it's spreading to other states. The adult borer is a metallic, coppery-green color and one-third to one-half inch long.
Photo by David Cappaert of Michigan State University, courtesy of www.forestryimages.org

Officials have found another infestation of emerald ash borer in Minnesota.

Survey crews identified infested trees on a couple of islands in the Mississippi River, very close to a previous infestation in Wisconsin.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Geir Friisoe says public education is the key to slowing the spread of the pest.

"Our main focus now in Houston County, which has already been quarantined, is to work with the public and try and avoid any firewood movement out of that area, particularly from areas close to the river where it's likely to be infested," Friisoe said.

Both Ramsey and Hennepin Counties are also quarantined. That means people should not move ash trees, ash tree limbs, or any hardwood firewood from place to place.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.