By Scout Nelson
State officials in South Dakota are taking steps to inform residents about the recent detection of the emerald ash borer, a harmful invasive insect that targets ash trees. The pest has now been confirmed for the first time in Watertown and Milbank, raising concerns among local communities.
To address the issue, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is organizing two public informational meetings. These sessions aim to help residents identify signs of emerald ash borer infestation and learn about proper management strategies.
The meeting in Watertown will be held on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Codington County Extension Complex. In Milbank, the meeting is scheduled for Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Grant County Visitor Center.
The emerald ash borer is a small green beetle that feeds on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting their ability to transport water and nutrients. This leads to the tree’s eventual death if left untreated. The insect spreads quickly and is difficult to detect in its early stages, making public awareness crucial for control efforts.
At the meetings, DANR experts will provide guidance on how to recognize symptoms of infestation such as canopy dieback, bark splits, and woodpecker damage. Residents will also learn about treatment options and when to consider removing infected trees to prevent further spread.
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Categories: South Dakota, Business