Emerald Ash Borer Biological Control in Twin Cities |
As part of the ongoing effort to slow the spread of emerald ash borer (EAB), the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has introduced tiny, stingless wasps as biological control in several locations in Minneapolis and St. Paul and Shoreview.
Biological control, or biocontrol, is a pest control strategy that pairs an invasive pest with natural enemies that restrict the pest in its native range. MDA has released three kinds of tiny, stingless wasps approved for use as biocontrol by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Biocontrol organisms such as these wasps are used only after extensive testing confirms they will not harm people or impact non-target species or the environment. In 2011, MDA introduced all three species of wasps in Hennepin, Houston, Ramsey and Winona counties to control EAB infestations there.
MDA Contact
Monika Chandler, Biological Control Coordinator
Monika.Chandler@state.mn.us
651-201-6537
Jonathan Osthus, EAB Biological Control Coordinator
Jonathan.Osthus@state.mn.us
651-201-6248
Plant Protection Division
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