Emerald ash borer quarantine eyed for new area
Taking public comments until Jan. 15
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture announced Friday they want to expand an emerald ash borer quarantine in Northeastern Minnesota.
The new zones would include portions of St. Louis and Carlton counties.
Previously the MDA ordered an emergency quarantine for much of the St. Louis County area.
The current expansion could include where Carlton and St. Louis County meet near Minnesota Highway 33.
“The impact of losing ash trees on hydrology, on our water quality and wildlife dependent on ash trees is expected to be substantial,” said Louise Levy, of Levy Tree Care, about how emerald ash borer shapes the area.
Current quarantines limit the movement of firewood and ash material out of the area.
The MDA will take public comments on the new quarantine through Jan. 15. More information can be found at www.mda.state.mn.us/eab.
