PLATINUM TREE SERVICES
Tree HealthJanuary 15, 2026

Emerald Ash Borer in Central Minnesota: What You Need to Know

Central Minnesota is experiencing a severe emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation. This invasive beetle has devastated ash tree populations across the region, and if you have ash trees on your property, they are at serious risk.

How to Identify Ash Trees

Ash trees have compound leaves with 5-9 leaflets arranged opposite each other on the branch. The bark is distinctive with diamond-shaped ridges. Common species in Minnesota include green ash, white ash, and black ash.

Signs of EAB Infestation

  • **D-shaped exit holes** in the bark (about 1/8 inch)
  • **Canopy dieback** starting at the top of the tree
  • **Bark splitting** and woodpecker damage
  • **Epicormic sprouting** (new shoots growing from the trunk)
  • **S-shaped larval galleries** under the bark

    • Treatment vs. Removal

    Treatment with systemic insecticides can protect healthy ash trees, but it requires ongoing annual applications and significant cost. Treatment is most effective on:

  • Trees with less than 30% canopy thinning
  • High-value specimen trees
  • Trees in highly visible or important landscape positions

    • Removal is often recommended for:

  • Trees with more than 50% canopy thinning
  • Ash trees in hazardous locations (over structures, near power lines)
  • Properties with multiple ash trees (treatment cost becomes prohibitive)

    • Why Proactive Removal Matters

    Once infested, ash trees decline rapidly and become extremely brittle. Dead ash trees are unpredictable and dangerous—branches fail without warning. Removing ash trees while they're still manageable is safer and more cost-effective than emergency removal after failure.

    Call Platinum Tree Services at (763) 807-3131 for a free EAB assessment of your property.

    Need Professional Tree Care?

    Platinum Tree Services serves Central Minnesota with expert tree removal, trimming, and emergency services.