VIRGINIA — The city of Virginia will begin removing ash trees throughout the community in the coming weeks as part of a proactive effort to address the impacts of emerald ash borer.
The ash borer is an invasive pest that has caused widespread tree decline across Northern Minnesota.
In a Tuesday, April 21, news release, the city stated residents may notice increased tree removal activity in city boulevards, parks and public spaces. These removals are intended to reduce public safety risks, including falling limbs and trees near streets, sidewalks and recreational areas.
But new trees will also be planted in priority areas, thanks to funding through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' Community Tree Planting Grant.
The plantings will focus on increasing canopy coverage and improving environmental benefits, such as shade and storm water management. The goal is also to diversify tree species to build resilience against future pests and diseases.
“While tree removal is always difficult to see, this project is a critical step in maintaining public safety and restoring the health of our community forest,” stated Brian Silber, Virginia parks and recreation director, in the release. “We are committed to replacing lost trees and ensuring a stronger, more diverse canopy for future generations.”
The city reported it will continue to provide updates on project timing, locations, and replanting efforts through its website, social media channels and local media outlets.
Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the Virginia Public Works Department at 218-748-7515.
-
Lorie Shaull/KAXEIn their final hours before the session ended, lawmakers passed a county hospital bailout, an infrastructure bill and small cuts to car tab fees and property taxes. -
Contributed/Ellen Schmidt / MinnPost / CatchLight Local / Report for AmericaHere’s what made it into the Legislature's infrastructure package and what lawmakers and others had to say about it May 17, 2026. -
Contributed/St. Louis County Sheriff's OfficeFirefighters responded to a wildland fire between Orr and Crane Lake on Friday, May 15, 2026. After returning to the airport, it was learned a bullet appeared to have struck one of the planes. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEEvacuated homeowners will be able to return to their properties for the day, Monday, May 18, 2026. Crow Wing County declared a local emergency, the first step toward state disaster aid. -
This is the Up North Lookback, where we’re digging into the local news archives from 50 years ago — the year KAXE was born. It’s the week of May 18. -
As next steps for a proposed data center are considered, Liz Schwab from Google addresses some of the concerns raised at a recent Hermantown City Council meeting.
-
Contributed/Doug MitchellWildland firefighters are working on containment and mopping up hot spots for a wildfire that began Saturday afternoon, May 16, 2026, southeast of Crosslake. -
Plus: Minnesota partners want you to help track wildlife collisions; and DNR upgrades four fishing piers in Northern Minnesota.
-
Contributed/Screenshot of St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay Facebook pageSt. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay said the fire was one of at least a half-dozen blazes in the county as high winds, low humidity and drought conditions persisted. -
Contributed/Minnesota Department of Natural ResourcesThe agency said it is also close to finishing upgrades on the pier on Sand Lake near Warba.
