By Scout Nelson
Governor Kelly Armstrong has declared May 19–26, 2025, as Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Awareness Week in North Dakota. The goal is to inform people about the threat EAB poses to ash trees and encourage prevention steps.
The emerald ash borer is a shiny green beetle native to Asia. Its larvae live under the bark of ash trees and block the flow of water and nutrients. This kills trees over time. Across the U.S., EAB has destroyed hundreds of millions of ash trees.
North Dakota has over 90 million ash trees. In some cities, ash makes up between 20% and 80% of all park and street trees. Ash trees also grow in rural areas, forests, and shelterbelts.
Since 2008, the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, North Dakota Forest Service, and NDSU Extension have worked together to educate people about EAB. This includes training, outreach, and monitoring efforts.
Nearly 300 purple, triangle-shaped EAB traps will soon be placed around the state. These traps are hung in trees in high-risk areas like cities, campgrounds, and rest stops. They contain a lure that attracts EAB adults and are checked throughout the summer. People are asked not to touch or disturb these traps.
If EAB is found near a property (within 15 miles), treatment options are available to protect ash trees. However, treating trees is not recommended unless EAB is confirmed nearby.
It’s also illegal to move ash wood or firewood from areas with known EAB infestations. Currently, LaMoure County is under regulation to help stop the pest from spreading.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-0shut0
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy, Sustainable Agriculture