Ash tree removal to increase in Watertown

WATERTOWN, S.D. (KWAT) — The work of removing ash trees on public property in Watertown will ramp up again after Labor Day. 

That’s according to Parks and Recreation Director Jay DeLange.

Ash trees nationally have become diseased by an insect known as the Emerald Ash Borer. In South Dakota, DeLange says it’s been found only in Sioux Falls to this point. But Watertown is being pro-active, by taking down some ash trees now.

DeLange was asked what kind of trees will be planted to replace the ones taken down.

DeLange says if you’ve got ash trees on your own property, there’s no need to cut them down just yet.

In neighboring Minnesota, Nobles County was just added to the list of counties in that state where the Emerald Ash Borer has been found.

 A total of 19 Minnesota counties, including Nobles County, are now under a full or partial quarantine to prevent spreading emerald ash borers.