Does Extreme Cold Kill Emerald Ash Borer?

With the extremely cold temperatures we endure in the Minneapolis and St. Paul metro area, you may wonder if the extreme cold kills emerald ash borer. Sadly, the answer is no. While the sub-zero temperatures may kill off some EAB, not enough insects were killed to justify ending protective treatments.

Sub-zero temps

How does EAB survive the winter?

Many winters produce record-breaking low temperatures in Minneapolis & St. Paul metropolitan area, as well as across the state. It may be hard to believe insect larvae could survive those conditions, but thanks to special physical adaptations many do. As the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources explains, some insect larvae also spend the winter insulated by tree bark, or by burrowing below the snow line, which further increases their chance of survival.

Is there any good news?

Minnesota winters and polar vortex events could be seen as a helpful bonus in EAB management. However, easing up on preventative treatments in the hope that extreme weather will take care of EAB would be a mistake. According to the MN DNR, “While frigid winter temperatures may be an added benefit for now, we should not allow the cold to give us a false sense of security when it comes to actively managing Minnesota’s ash resource.”

On the bright side, extreme cold may give Minnesota a slight advantage in preserving ash trees. Continued treatment will be even more effective in dealing with an EAB population that has been weakened or reduced. On the other hand, as an invasive species, EAB enjoys many advantages, such as a lack of natural predators. If left unchecked, its population can bounce back leaving high-value ash trees just as vulnerable as they were before.

What can I do about EAB?

  • Avoid spreading EAB—never transport ash logs, lumber, brush, or wood chips from a quarantined into a non-quarantined area.
  • Consult a licensed arborist—see if your ash tree is a good candidate for treatment, or removal and replanting with another species.
  • Contact your City Forester—ask if they have an EAB management plan, or click here to see if you live in one of Rainbow Treecare’s Partner Cities.

Rainbow Treecare can evaluate your ash tree and make recommendations on treatment or removal!

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