EAB Spreads Further Into Canada

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the presence of the emerald ash borer (EAB) in the Montérégie region of Quebec.

The destructive pest was first discovered in 2002 in Michigan. EAB cases have since been confirmed in several neighboring states, including Illinois, Ohio and Pennsylvania, and Toronto was added to the list late last year.

It is most commonly spread when people move materials which it has infested. Moving the materials even just a few miles away can spread the emerald ash borer to new areas.

"We all have a responsibility to protect Canada’s forests and area residents can play a key part in helping to control the spread of EAB by not moving firewood, logs, branches, nursery stock, chips or other ash wood," says a release from the CFIA.

The CFIA will be carrying out increased surveying of trees in the area to determine the extent of the infestation and affected property owners will be notified. Regulatory measures to control this pest will be taken based on information obtained through the surveys. The CFIA continues to work with its partners and stakeholders toward the goal of slowing the spread of this destructive pest.

Additional information is available on the CFIA Web site at www.inspection.gc.ca or by calling 866/463-6017.