Destructive Tree Insect Discovered in Robbinsdale

The emerald ash borer is making another unwanted appearance in a local suburb.  The Minnesota Department of Agriculture confirmed the first infestation in Robbinsdale in a tree along Lilac Drive in the northern part of the city.

The ash tree had classic symptoms, including a large number of woodpecker holes.  Other tell tale signs include serpentine lines under the bark. If you look closely enough, you may also see a small “D” shaped exit hole on the outside of the bark.

Robbinsdale City Forester Stephan Papiz says the infestation may not be fatal for this ash tree if the homeowner applies treatment.  The city is treating healthy trees on city property as a way to prevent the infestation.

Experts say the discovery of the first emerald ash borer was inevitable in Robbinsdale, since its already been reported nearby.  And it probably won’t be the last.  If you’re a homeowner, the sooner you find the damage, the better for your tree.

“You’ve got to be ahead of the ball on this particular insect, said Papiz. “If you wait too long when you start to see die-back its probably too late. Even if it doesn’t have any sign of emerald ash borer at this time, it still would be highly recommended to get it on a treatment rotation.”

Papiz says this is a good time of year to look for emerald ash borer damage because there are no leaves on the trees to block the view.