The Minnesota Department of Agriculture held an essential informational meeting on March 8, 2024, focusing on the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and its impact on local communities in Pine and Renville Counties. The session highlighted critical regulations aimed at controlling the spread of this invasive pest, which poses a significant threat to ash trees across the state.

Daniel, the regulatory coordinator, explained the two types of quarantines currently in place: the external quarantine, which restricts the movement of regulated materials into Minnesota, and the internal quarantine, which allows for localized restrictions based on EAB detections. He emphasized that all parts of ash trees, the emerald ash borer itself, and all firewood are regulated, meaning they cannot be moved out of quarantined areas without prior agreements with the Department of Agriculture.

A key takeaway from the meeting was the importance of compliance agreements for businesses and municipalities involved in the movement of wood products. Daniel outlined the options available for moving materials safely, including certified safe-to-move seals for treated firewood. He urged attendees to buy firewood locally and burn it where it is purchased to minimize the risk of spreading EAB and other pests.

The meeting also featured a detailed discussion on the movement of ash products across state lines, clarifying that while Minnesota's ash products can move into Wisconsin, the reverse is subject to Minnesota's external quarantine regulations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical role of public awareness and compliance in managing the threat of the Emerald Ash Borer, with ongoing updates available through the Department of Agriculture's resources. Attendees were encouraged to reach out for further guidance on navigating these regulations to protect Minnesota's valuable tree resources.