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City of Duluth Prepares for Emerald Ash Borer

Mayor Don Ness held a press conference today to share how the City is preparing for the arrival of Emerald Ash Borer now it has been found in the city of Superior. This devastating insect pest can cause millions of dollars of damage to our community trees and forests. In Minnesota EAB has been found in the Metro and Southeastern section of the state.

Now with confirmation of EAB across the river from us the City plans to:

• ·       The City staff have completed a street tree inventory and know the locations of our 4500 boulevard ash trees
• ·       Parks and Forestry staff have been trained to detect EAB and have been diligent in searching for EAB
• ·       The City of Duluth has an EAB Management Plan in place which includes working alongside with the City of Superior to slow the spread of this pest

·       The City of Duluth will be working with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to provide training and educational opportunities for the general public to help identify and treat this pest.

Residents are encouraged to learn the signs and symptoms of EAB.  The City will offer training to the public regarding the identification and treatment of this pest.

·       Property owners who are concerned about trees on private property should take these measures:

• ·       Contact the University Minnesota Extension Service for more information on EAB http://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants/pestmanagement/eab.aspx
• ·       Consult a professional arborist for expert advice
• ·       Consider planning different species of trees that are not susceptible to EAB

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