Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has recently been discovered within the city limits of Belle Plaine. EAB is difficult to detect, and is a serious invasive tree pest that attacks and kills ash trees. An early sign of infestation is jagged holes in the bark created by woodpeckers trying to dig out the larvae.

Characteristics of trees infested with EAB include the presence of sucker growth or 'water sprouts', dieback from the top of the tree downward, woodpecker damage, S-shaped feeding galleries, splits in the tree bark, and D-shaped borer exit holes.

The City has been awarded a MnDNR Preparing for EAB Grant. Find out more about the grant here (PDF). 

More Information

If you have questions, please call the Public Works Department at 952-873-6742 or email them


Ash Borer Identification


The decision to treat private trees rests with the property owner per City Ordinance 40002, Monday through P. However, it is important to know, that if you find signs of EAB, you need to contact the Public Works Department. The City of Belle Plaine is required to contact state agencies regarding the number of cases of EAB we have within our city limits and the location where found.

There may be many thousands of large and small ash trees on private property within our city limits. No reliable inventory exists, and ash density varies by neighborhood. Property owners are urged to monitor their trees for EAB.

Residents should consider many variables when evaluating options, including: Emerald Ash Borer

  • Tree size, location, and condition
  • Access to the tree
  • Potential targets should the tree fail
  • Property value
  • Shade, heating, and cooling values
  • Treatment technique efficiency and costs
  • Proximity of EAB infestation
  • Intangible values

The City encourages residents to replace trees lost with recommended species appropriate for the site, or to remove and replace ash trees in advance of EAB infestation as a way of preserving the tree canopy. If you need assistance evaluating your trees, please call 952-873-6742.

Trees cannot be planted in the boulevard and must be planted entirely on their private property at least 3 feet from the property line. It is the responsibility of the property owner to find their own property lines - the City does not locate property lines.