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First Discovery Of Emerald Ash Borer In Northern Minn. In Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) — State officials say they've made the first discovery of emerald ash borer in northern Minnesota — an infestation in Duluth.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture staffers found larvae of the destructive tree pest in ash trees on Park Point. Entomologist Mark Abrahamson says the area has been a focus ever since the discovery of EAB just across the border in Superior, Wisconsin, in August 2013. He says officials will now work with Duluth, St. Louis County, and residents and businesses to slow its spread in northern Minnesota.

The specimen has been sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for official confirmation, which is expected within days.

The department is imposing an emergency quarantine on Park Point to try to limit the spread.

Eleven Minnesota counties are under emerald ash borer quarantines.

(© Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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