Emerald Ash Borer in South Dakota
MODERATEInsect
Emerald Ash Borer is currently active in South Dakota. Watch your susceptible trees closely and act early.
About Emerald Ash Borer
An invasive wood-boring beetle native to Asia that has killed hundreds of millions of ash trees across North America since its discovery in Michigan in 2002. Larvae feed on the inner bark, disrupting nutrient and water transport.
Symptoms to watch for
Canopy dieback starting at the top of the tree, D-shaped exit holes in bark, serpentine larval galleries under bark, increased woodpecker activity, epicormic sprouting along the trunk
Trees at risk in South Dakota
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Treatment options
Systemic Insecticide Trunk Injection
Trunk injection of emamectin benzoate (TREE-age) provides 2-3 years of protection. Most effective when applied before significant canopy loss. Requires a certified applicator.
Soil Drench Imidacloprid
Systemic insecticide applied as a soil drench around the base of the tree. Less effective on large trees (>20 inch DBH) due to slower uptake. Annual application required.
Biological Control with Parasitoid Wasps
USDA-approved release of parasitoid wasps (Tetrastichus planipennisi, Oobius agrili, Spathius galinae) that attack EAB larvae and eggs. Provides long-term population suppression but not individual tree protection.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Emerald Ash Borer. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Soil drench for protecting ash trees with under ~50% canopy loss.
Knocks down soft-bodied pests like aphids, mites, and scale crawlers.
Smothers overwintering eggs and crawlers; dormant or summer rates.
Soil-applied protection taken up by the tree for season-long control.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Browse all South Dakota arborists →Frequently asked questions
Is Emerald Ash Borer in South Dakota?
Emerald Ash Borer is currently active in South Dakota. Watch your susceptible trees closely and act early.
What does Emerald Ash Borer look like?
Canopy dieback starting at the top of the tree, D-shaped exit holes in bark, serpentine larval galleries under bark, increased woodpecker activity, epicormic sprouting along the trunk
What trees does Emerald Ash Borer affect in South Dakota?
It affects Green Ash, White Ash. Susceptibility varies by species.
How do I treat Emerald Ash Borer?
Options include: Systemic Insecticide Trunk Injection, Soil Drench Imidacloprid, Biological Control with Parasitoid Wasps. Confirm the diagnosis before treating, and consider a certified arborist for high-value trees.