Emerald Ash Borer Inching Closer To SD

An insect that could threaten one of South Dakota's most populous tree species moved even closer to the state in the past year. The emerald ash borer was found in Union County in southwestern Iowa last year, as well as in Boulder, Colorado. The emerald ash borer was discovered in Michigan in 2002 and has since spread, killing tens of millions of trees in several states. Dr. John Ball, South Dakota State University forestry professor and extension forestry specialist, estimates that ash trees make up almost one-third of all the trees planted in South Dakota communities. Ball thinks the Asian beetle will be found in South Dakota within five years.