IN-PERSON London. Section B

Abstract

Minnesota, like many states in the US, has been significantly impacted by the invasive Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), causing devastation to one of its primary urban shade trees. Cities have implemented a diverse range of policy measures to manage its spread and mitigate ecological and economic damage, but environmental justice concerns related to EAB persist. This presentation provides a qualitative analysis of interviews from officials and community members of Burnsville, Minnesota to provide insight into the choices, constraints, and impacts suburban cities face when dealing with a far-reaching invasive species like EAB. This research can inform future policy development and decision-making processes by highlighting the capacity, funding, and procedural justice concerns that arise in natural resource management attempts. By analyzing how practitioners and residents experience EAB management in their lives, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable EAB management and offers recommendations to better address the multifaceted challenges posed by this invasive pest.