U of M researchers hope fungus can help fight Emerald Ash Borer

For years, the Emerald Ash Borer has been killing millions of trees across the upper midwest. It’s one of the most destructive invasive forest insects in the country.

Now researchers at the University of Minnesota are closing in on finding a new way to fight it.

They hope fungus found in EAB-infested trees will help. Over the past year, they have collected infested trees and wood from across the state and have pinpointed certain species of fungi that are insect pathogens, which means they could be used to kill or weaken the invasive insect.

Emerald ash borer confirmed in Cottonwood County; emergency quarantine on wood movement in place

Researchers say so far it’s been promising in the lab on EAB eggs. The next step will be taking their experiment outside.

"We really need some kind of a solution if we are going to save the ash trees and forests of Minnesota," said Kathryn Bushley with the University of Minnesota.