FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, May 7, 2010

CONTACT: 
Michael Schommer, Communications Director
651.201.6629, Michael.schommer@state.mn.us

New guide helps homeowners weigh emerald ash borer treatment options

Four-page guide describes ways to protect trees and the environment when using insecticides

ST. PAUL, Minn. – As Minnesota’s battle against emerald ash borer (EAB) heats up, homeowners across the state are eager to know more about their options for protecting ash trees from the tree pest.  To help answer those questions, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) in partnership with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and University of Minnesota Extension developed a guide that describes treatment options, as well as key factors to consider before deciding to conduct an insecticide treatment.

“Dealing with emerald ash borer is a new challenge for most Minnesotans,” said MDA Plant Protection Director Geir Friisoe.  “In some cases people may not know when it makes sense to treat their trees and when it doesn’t, or what kind of treatment will work best for their situation.  With so many options out there and so many factors to consider, we thought it would be helpful to provide homeowners with all the relevant information in one small package.”

The four-page guide contains details about insecticide products marketed to professional tree care workers and those marketed directly to homeowners.  It also provides homeowners with tips on how to properly measure tree size (an important consideration when selecting a treatment option).  The document also emphasizes environmental considerations of using insecticides targeted to control EAB.

“It’s not just a matter of picking the most effective option for your trees,” Friisoe said.  “There are potential water quality and human health concerns with some of these products if they are not used properly.  We’re doing our best to get that information into the hands of homeowners, but ultimately the responsibility is theirs to read, understand and follow the label requirements.”

Available to download on MDA’s website at http://www.mda.state.mn.us/eab, the guide recommends that homeowners consider the following factors before moving forward with an insecticide treatment:

• Identify if EAB is near – Treatments are only advised for trees within about 15 miles of known infestations.
• Consider removing and replacing small and struggling ash trees – The cost of replacing these trees may be less than the cost of repeated treatments over the years.
• Check the calendar – Treatments are most effective from mid-April through June.
• Contact a certified arborist or city forester before treating your trees – Some communities have special restrictions or requirements.
• Have a professional treat large ash trees – Do-it-yourself products are generally less effective on trees larger than 48 inches in circumference or 15 inches in diameter.

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