It looks like the male cones have dried up and needles have fallen off. You have not mentioned any other symptoms such as insect problems. The photos do appear to show loss of needles which can be a sign of disease. My advice would be to send samples to the University of Minnesota Plant Disease Clinic to find out why this is happening and what can be done. Below is the link which includes instructions for submitting samples. Another approach would be to contact a professional tree specialist in your area for their in-person analysis of the situation. I am including a link that will help with finding and hiring a professional arborist. I hope this helps.

https://pdc.umn.edu/submit-sample

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire