–The City of Algona has begun a large-scale tree removal project as part of the city’s mitigation plan to combat the Emerald Ash Borer. City officials say that approximately 100 trees will be removed this year, with other trees receiving treatment.
The Emerald Ash Borer was discovered in Kossuth County for the first time in 2022, after which the city’s Tree Board activated a plan to remove Ash Trees from city properties like parks and cemeteries. The city is also working with homeowners to remove or treat trees that are within the right-of-way.
Signs of tree infestation include fewer leaves, sprouts from the trunk or large meandering tunnels under the bark, split bark, woodpecker damage and small D-shaped holes in the bark.
Property owners can choose to implement a treatment plan to maintain a tree’s health, with some financial assistance available from the city. A Emerald Ash Borer application must be completed and receive approval prior to the beginning of treatment to be eligible for assistance in covering the costs.
To learn more about the city’s Emerald Ash Borer mitigation plan or treatment funds available, contact Barb Smith by calling 515-295-2411 or go online to www.algonaiowa.gov.
