Minnesota’s nickname is Land of 10,000 Lakes. But our spectacular natural landscape goes beyond our prized lakes. The state, according to the U.S. Forest Service, is around 32% forest. In 2016, Minnesota was home to more than 14 billion trees.

These huge swathes of forest are something to be proud of. But they also need protecting. Many Minnesota trees are under assault from an invasive species called the emerald ash borer. Read on to learn everything you need to know about this destructive insect:

The emerald ash borer is an insect distinctive for its bright green color. It is native to northeastern Asia, but it has made its way into Europe, North America, and beyond.
Judy Gallagher/Flickr
In the United States, this beetle is known for boring into several species of ash tree. Adults lay eggs on ash trees, and larvae hatch.
Chesapeake Bay Program/Flickr
The larvae quickly get to work on the ash. Their destructive feast leaves distinctive round, D-shaped holes that damage the tree and, eventually, lead to its death.
Greg Blick/Flickr
The beetle has destroyed millions of ash trees in the eastern United States. Though it prefers young and stressed trees, all ashes are vulnerable to the insect’s destruction.
Jeremy Riel/Flickr

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Because Minnesota is home to nearly 1 billion ash trees, our forests are also vulnerable to the emerald ash borer. The invader was first found in the Twin Cities in 2009, and it has since spread into Duluth.
MJI Photos/Flickr
Millions of Minnesota trees are at risk from the emerald ash borer. There are efforts in place to save the state’s ash forests, and the cold winters do help slow the insect’s spread.
Peter Fleck/Flickr
If you have ash trees in your yard, they may be infested. Look for rounded holes and sections of missing bark. If you find an infestation, get it removed!
Jim Grey/Flickr
The emerald ash borer is a destructive force in Minnesota’s forest. As the insect spreads, more than 1 billion ash trees will be at risk. Look out for infestations and, if you have an infestation on your property, have it removed.
Chesapeake Bay Program/Flickr

There are many invasive species in Minnesota, like the zebra mussel. But the emerald ash borer is among the most destructive. Be on the lookout for infested trees on your property, and do your part to save our forests by removing them!

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