Emerald Ash Borer Preparedness
Summary
The invasive beetle kills every untreated ash tree and hasn't reached Spearfish yet. The city has removed 35-40% of ash trees on city property over four or five years and planted replacements, hoping to avoid a multimillion-dollar crisis like Sioux Falls or Milbank faced.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 1
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 13, 2026.
Impact analysis
The proactive program is designed to avoid a potential $3-5 million removal bill for city property.
City parks and taxpayers, since the staged program avoids one massive future removal bill; residents can plan for their own trees.
Residents who love their mature ash trees face eventual removal or treatment costs when the beetle arrives.
Mentions & discussions (1)
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