Natural resource and parks departments in Sherburne, Stearns and Wright Counties are partnering with the MN Department of Agriculture (MDA) to expand on survey efforts performed by volunteers in Sherburne County, to detect infestations of emerald ash borer (EAB).
EAB is an unprecedented, destructive forest pest that has decimated ash tree populations in hundred of communities throughout the Midwest and is currently spreading throughout MN. Most recently, an infestation was confirmed in Wright County.
Researchers have come to rely on the strong correlation between heavy woodpecker activity in ash trees in late winter and the presence of EAB larvae under the bark.
Early detection is the key to stopping the damaging effects of an infestation.
Woodpecker Training Session
Training will cover ash tree identification, emerald ash borer life cycle and identification, and a brief outdoor field training. Binoculars are required for surevy work and training; each volunteer must furnish a pair for their own use.
The Training is Fri., March 15 from 9 a.m. to noon and will be held at Warner Park Nature Center, 1485 Co. Rd. 143 in Clearwater, MN.
Contact Gina Hugo at the Sherburne SWCD at 763-220-3434 or at ghugo@sherburneswcd.org. Registration deadline is March 14.
