DNR: Bark Beetle Is Destroying Minnesota Trees

DULUTH, (AP) - Researchers say the bark beetle is destroying thousands of acres of northern Minnesota forest.

The Department of Natural Resources first noticed the eastern larch beetle killing tamarack trees in 2000.

Since then the insect has killed more than 160,000 acres of state trees.

New research from the University of Minnesota shows for the first time that multiple generations of the beetle are attacking trees during the same summer.

DNR forest health specialist Mike Albers says warmer, drier conditions benefit the insects and make it harder on trees.

The DNR has also seen an uptick in a different beetle attacking white pines this year.