Know the symptoms of infected trees in Shoreview

When I was growing up in St. Paul, the city had a huge number of elm trees that created beautiful canopies over city streets. Dutch Elm disease took too many of those trees. This month’s column was born from a conversation I had with Shoreview residents about a disease now affecting ash trees.

These residents wanted to ensure that all Shoreview residents were aware of how to identify and treat ash trees affected by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). Since 2011, our trees have been affected by EAB. This insect is an invasive beetle that kills all ash trees native to Minnesota. The larvae of the beetle eat the layer underneath the bark of the tree. This cuts off the movement of nutrients and water necessary for the tree to survive.

Unfortunately, like many other cities, Shoreview is within

• Limited to 350 words.

• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

• Letter writers are limited to the EAB infested area. This means that all ash trees in the city either are or will become infested with EAB unless they are treated. It’s important to begin treatment as soon as possible.

So, what are the symptoms of an infected ash tree? They are as follows:

• Canopy decline which means thinning of the outer branches of the tree.

• High woodpecker activity as woodpeckers feed on the larvae beneath the bark causing the outer bark to fall off.

• Shoot/suckers growing from the trunk of the tree.

What are the options for an infected ash tree? Unfortunately, the only options for ash trees are treatment or removal. Trees with low levels of infestation can be treated by injections that must be re-applied every other year. An example of a low level of infestation is a tree canopy with less than 30% canopy decline. The city of Shoreview’s website contains information about licensed tree service companies for residents needing tree removal or treatment. There is also information about EAB, how to identify ash trees and infected ash trees, as well as a contact if you’d like someone from the city to determine if your ash tree is infected.

Since 2012, the city has treated over 3,000 private trees and 500 public trees. The city-staffed program reached capacity this year. Private, licensed tree service companies offer the same service.

Shoreview has been using multiple methods to slow the spread and manage EAB. They include treatments, removals, social media posts and communications, education, and replanting. Ash trees on city property are either being treated or planned for removal. In fact, the city has budgeted for a significant increase in removal and replanting over the next several years.

What’s important to note is early identification and treatment are critical to extending the life of ash trees as much as possible. I hope this information is helpful and do check the city website at shoreviewmn.gov/trees for more.

Sue Denkinger is the Mayor of Shoreview

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