What to do about my Ash Tree?

U of Mn Extension compiled a resourceful list of FAQ's, links and resources on the topic of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) for the Ramsey County Master Gardeners. I am sharing an edited version of it here because of its completeness. The Hamline Midway Environment Group made a key addition though- Don't forget to plant trees!

You cannot move untreated firewood out of the quarantined counties of Houston, Hennepin and Ramsey:

• Quarantine info
• the MDA website’s site maps for quarantine boundaries
  
• Want to learn how to treat your wood so you can move it? Call the MDA’s “Arrest the Pest Hotline” 651-201-6884.

Think you have a tree with EAB?

• Read the “Do I Have EAB” sheet.
  
• Call the MDA’s “Arrest the Pest Hotline” 651-201-6884(Metro) or 1-888-545-6884 (Greater MN).

Should I treat for EAB? You should treat for EAB ONLY if:

• The environmental, economic, and time costs of treating is less than the cost of replacing the tree
  
• You are willing to treat your ash tree every 1-3 years for the tree’s ENTIRE LIFE
  
• Your ash is less than 10-15 miles from a known EAB infestation.
  
• Your ash is a beautiful specimen worth saving.
• You properly apply, store, & dispose of any leftover chemicals.

What Can I Do to Help?

• The Hamline Midway Environment Group says "Plant a tree!"
• Do Not Move Firewood, not even within MN. Respect the quarantine.
  
• Prune trees & shrubs at the right time (to avoid the sap attracting EAB).
• Be aware of EAB and its symptoms.
  
• Understand that you CANNOT IDENTIFY EAB by looking at a tree, as an Ash tree can look bad for other reasons.

Where do I get rid of Ash wood?

• Do you live in Ramsey County? Then see this MDA list of Ash Tree Disposal sites or the Ramsey County yard waste site info .
  
• Or visit the MDA website’s site maps for further information:
  
• Grinding your ash wood down to chips less than 1’ in any direction should theoretically kill the borer.
  
• Apparently, there IS some demand for urban wood for sale.
  

EAB websites

• Extension Service
  
• MDA
  
• Especially see: “Q&A for Homeowners in EAB-Infested Neighborhoods”
  
• DNR
  
• www.emeraldashborer.info

Want Even More EAB details?

• Best Management Practices for Known EAB Infested Areas
  
• Interactive Minnesota Survey Map
  
• Emerald Ash Borer University
  
• E-mail Eab.Review@state.mn.us to receive monthly updates on the EAB quarantine
  
• Guidelines for EAB Management in Minnesota Communities