Emerald ash borer in Elk River as well as 46 Minnesota counties

Emerald Ash Borer is an insect pest from East Asia that has been working its way through 46 counties in Minnesota. This insect’s larva feeds on the cambium layer of ash trees until it emerges as a beetle in the spring. It impacts all species of ash trees, will kill all infested trees, and is active here in Elk River.

In 2023, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture estimated Elk River was in year four to five of infestation. Ash trees begin to see mortality at years five and six and experience a 90% mortality rate by year 12. Elk River has begun to see the negative impacts of these infestations.

Currently, city staff are working alongside the City Council to develop and adopt an Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan that will see the removal of nearly 1,000 ash trees in the city. The plan will consider replacement options and assistance for homeowners and their private trees.

City staff plans to hold an open house event in May to share more information. For now, the city encourages homeowners to visit the city website at ElkRiverMN.gov/EAB to learn more about emerald ash borer, the infection signs, and the impact it has on the city.

Information about the upcoming open house will be posted on the city’s website, the city’s social media accounts, e-newsletter, and in the Star News.