Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an insect that bores under the bark of all species of ash trees, feasting on the tree’s cambium layer, thereby cutting off the tree’s nutrient supply which ultimately causes the tree’s decline.  The emerald ash borer is a poor flier which limits its speed of invasive spread. The most common way EAB is spread is by moving ash firewood from infested areas to non-infested areas.  

State of South Dakota Forest Entomologist, Dr. John Ball, suggests that communities generally prepare for the arrival of the EAB, however a sense of urgency should only take place when the insect has been identified within a 30-mile radius of the area. The Emerald Ash Borer has been reported within 30 miles of the City of Vermillion. In cooperation with the State of South Dakota Department of Agriculture, the City Staff has set EAB traps over the last several years to monitor for activity. The setting of traps has shown to be the best avenue of early detection.  For more in-depth information, please visit The South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s website. There are a variety of resources available from how to identify EAB, quarantine maps, and landowner guidance.

Council Approves of Ordinance 1423: Emerald Ash Borer

On February 21, 2022, the City Council approved the second reading of Ordinance 1423. The adoption and implementation of the ordinance took place when the SD Department of Agriculture has determined that the Emerald Ash Borer is within 30 miles of Vermillion. Adoption of this ordinance provides protocol for tree removal to mitigate the risk of an EAB infestation. A 2013 City of Vermillion tree survey estimated there to be 2400 ash trees within city limits.  Staff estimates that there are 570 ash trees in the city boulevards, parks, and rights-of-ways. 

If you have questions about the City's mitigation efforts to address the Emerald Ash Borer, please contact a City Tree Specialist.

  • Jim Goblirsch, Parks & Recreation Director: 605-677-7081
  • Pete Jahn, Street Superintendent: 605-677-7078

Related Documents

Ordinance 1423 

Emerald Ash Borer Treatment Application (PDF)

Street Tree Guide

Street Tree Planting Permit Application

Street Tree Removal Permit Application