FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, June 7, 2011

CONTACT:
Liz Erickson, Communications Coordinator
763.219.9386, Liz.erickson@state.mn.us

MEDIA ADVISORY
MDA introducing new allies to fight emerald ash borer in Hennepin and Ramsey Counties

St. Paul, Minn. ‑ The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) invites media to view the release of stingless wasps as a biological control for emerald ash borer (EAB).  MDA and its partners will release the stingless wasps in both Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

EAB is an invasive beetle threatening ash trees in North America. Biological control, or biocontrol, pairs a pest species with natural enemies that restrict the pest population in its native range. MDA will release two species of stingless wasps that were tested and approved by USDA for biocontrol to limit the EAB population.

What:
Biocontrol release of stingless wasps to combat emerald ash borer. Reporters will have an opportunity to release the stingless wasps.

Who:
Monika Chandler, MDA Biological Control Program Coordinator
Geir Friisoe, MDA Plant Protection Division Director
Chuck Dryke, MDA Plant Protection Division Assistant Director
Mark Abrahamson, MDA Emerald Ash Borer Project Manager
Ralph Sievert, Director of Forestry, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
Rob Venette, USDA Forest Service Research Biologist
Brian Aukema, University of Minnesota Assistant Professor, Forest Entomology Forest
Susan Burks, DNR Forestry Invasive Species Program Coordinator
Brad Meyer, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Public Service Manager

When:
10 a.m. Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Where:
Langford Park in St. Paul, MN.  We will meet at the Langford Recreation Center. The address is 30 Langford Park, St. Paul, MN 55108.

In case of rain, the event may be rescheduled.  Call 763.219.9386 with questions about weather delays.

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