Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an exotic insect that is destroying ash trees throughout the eastern part of North America.  This pest is slowly getting closer to North Dakota, with the closest known infestation in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area (March 2012).  The insect’s major mode of movement is people – especially when it is transported by campers and others who bring along infested firewood. 

This video discusses the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and its potential impact on North Dakota.  The impacts are likely severe, as green ash makes up the vast majority of the native forests, shelterbelts and urban forests throughout the state.  “Burn it where you buy it” is a recurring message directed towards campers and other recreational visitors.

More information on EAB can be found at www.emeraldashborer.info; a map with the most up-to-date locations for EAB is at http://www.emeraldashborer.info/files/MultiState_EABpos.pdf.  The ND Department of Agriculture’s EAB page is at http://www.nd.gov/ndda/pest/emerald-ash-borer-eab.

Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D.
Extension Forester