Country: United States

Title: Emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis): New counties in Kansas and New York added to the regulated area

Contact:
Paul Chaloux, EAB National Policy Manager, at (301) 851-2064

Report: In response to recent confirmations of the emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is adding Wyandotte County, Kansas and Dutchess County, New York to the list of EAB regulated areas. This action is effective immediately.

The Federal Orders outline specific conditions for the interstate movement of EAB-regulated articles from these areas in order to prevent the spread of EAB to other states. Specifically, the interstate movement of EAB-host wood and wood products from these counties is regulated, including firewood of all hardwood species, nursery stock, green lumber, waste, compost, and chips of ash species.

EAB is present in some portions of the United States. Due to the continuing spread of EAB, APHIS has established regulated areas, which are designated in the Federal regulations located at 7 CFR 301.53-3 and the Federal Orders located at the following APHIS website: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/emerald_ash_b/quarantine.shtml 

EAB, an invasive wood boring beetle, is native to China and eastern Asia. Since its first U.S. detection in Michigan, EAB has been responsible for the death and decline of tens of millions of U.S. ash trees. The interstate movement of firewood from regulated areas is an especially high-risk pathway for spreading EAB. APHIS works with State cooperators and foresters to raise public awareness about this pest and the potential threats associated with long distance movement of firewood.

Under IPPC Standards, Agrilus planipennis is considered to be a pest that is present in some parts of the United States and subject to official control to prevent further spread.
 

Posted Date: Nov. 19, 2012, 9 a.m.