FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, November 10, 2011

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

Winona County field day planned for emerald ash borer identification 

Overview:
The recent emerald ash borer find in Winona County has left damage in its wake. Field day participants will have the opportunity to get an up-close look at EAB infested trees, learn how to visually identify EAB infested trees, and ask questions of experts. Outreach material will also be available. All participants must wear a reflective safety vest. If they do not have a safety vest, one will be provided for them.  For questions, please contact Liz Erickson at 763.219.9386.

What:
Informal ash tree and emerald ash borer identification training 

Who:
Mark Abrahamson, Minnesota Department of Agriculture Entomologist

When:
Monday, November 14, 2011 in four sessions:

9:30 – 10:29 a.m.
10:30 – 11:29 a.m.
11:30 a.m. – 12:29 p.m.
1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Where:
Kwik Trip, 42165 County Road 12, Dakota, MN 55987 (Nodine exit off of Interstate 90.) Park farthest away from Kwik Trip customer parking.

Background Info:
The emerald ash borer (EAB), an exotic invasive wood-boring beetle native to Asia, is threatening ash trees throughout North America. EAB was first detected in Michigan in 2002 although it likely arrived more than ten years earlier in solid wood packing materials. EAB was first found in Minnesota in St. Paul in spring of 2009. September of 2011 was the first confirmed find of EAB in Winona County. Besides flying naturally, EAB moved by hitching a ride on firewood or other live wood. For more information about emerald ash borer, go to SaveOurAsh.net.

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