By Scout Nelson
A new emerald ash borer detection has been confirmed in Cass County, North Dakota, increasing concern about the spread of one of the most destructive tree pests in North America. North Dakota Forest Service staff discovered the insect north of Mapleton, marking the second confirmed detection in the county. The new location is more than 12 miles from the first Cass County detection reported earlier this year. The insect was first found in North Dakota in LaMoure County during August 2024.
Emerald ash borer is a wood-boring beetle originally from Asia. Since its discovery in the United States in 2002, it has spread to 37 states and destroyed hundreds of millions of ash trees. Although adult beetles usually fly only one or two miles, people can accidentally move them much farther by transporting firewood, tree branches, nursery stock, and other ash wood products.
“While this detection is unfortunate, it is not unexpected,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “Landowners should be diligent in monitoring ash trees in shelterbelts and other rural areas for indicators of emerald ash borer and report any suspect infestations.”
Officials encourage landowners and homeowners to regularly inspect ash trees for signs of infestation. Common symptoms include thinning tree canopies, leafy shoots growing from the trunk, bark splitting, S-shaped tunnels beneath the bark, woodpecker damage, and D-shaped exit holes left by adult beetles.
State agencies and partner organizations are expanding surveys around the new detection site to determine how the insect arrived and whether it has spread farther. Travelers are also reminded to avoid moving firewood between locations and instead purchase or collect firewood locally whenever permitted.
North Dakota has more than 90 million ash trees growing in forests, shelterbelts, parks, and communities. In many cities, ash trees make up between 20% and 80% of the urban tree population. Without treatment, infested trees often die within a few years.
Experts recommend treatment only after emerald ash borer is detected within 15 miles of a property. Most treatments require certified tree care professionals because many products are restricted-use pesticides.
Cass County remains under an emerald ash borer quarantine that restricts movement of hardwood firewood, ash logs, branches, nursery stock, and wood chips. Transporting regulated materials outside the quarantine without a permit may result in civil penalties of up to $5,000. Residents are encouraged to report suspected infestations to help slow the spread of this invasive pest.
Photo Credit: adobe-stock-moneycue-canada
Categories: North Dakota, General