Invasive insect claims new territory in Pottawatomie County

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY (KSNT) - An invasive species is continuing its slow conquest of Kansas ash trees as officials confirm it has spread to a new county in 2025.

The Kansas Forest Service (KFS) and Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) reported on Tuesday, June 17 that emerald ash borer insects have been found in Pottawatomie County. The invasive species is responsible for the deaths of numerous North American ash trees and can now be found in 17 counties across the Sunflower State.

Staff with the KFS...