01/04/2022 EB Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD AGENDA ITEM 7A STAFF ORIGINATOR: Andy Nelson MEETING DATE: January 4th, 2022 REQUEST: Discussion Only TOPIC: 2021 Preparing for EAB Grant Background Emerald ash borer (EAB), a non-native, invasive beetle that kills ash trees, was first confirmed in Lino Lakes in 2017. Since then, the rates of infestation and tree mortality have increased rapidly throughout the city. Our response to EAB includes removals of boulevard ash trees, replacement of these trees with a diverse mix of species, and insecticide injections that allow us to stagger removals over time. We currently remove and replace approximately 30 boulevard ash trees per year. It will take approximately 10 years to complete removals and replacements at this rate. Grant Details The State of Minnesota has made grant funds available for the removal and replacement of ash trees on public land through the 2021 Preparing for EAB Grant. Staff submitted a grant proposal for this program that has been approved for funding. To accept these funds, the city must enter into a contract with the state, ensuring that work is completed as described in the plan. The City Council approved entering into the contract with the MN DNR at the December 13th, 2021 Council meeting, thus accepting the grant funds. The plan includes 91 boulevard ash tree removals; 31 removals performed by Parks staff, and 60 removals performed by a contractor. Parks staff will be planting 91 bare root trees as replacements. The grant funds will cover the 60 contracted removals and stump grinding, the 91 bare root replacement trees, and planting supplies. The 25% match required from the city will be provided through staff time spent on removals, planting, watering, pruning, training, outreach, and inspections.