Emerald Ash Borer confirmed in Saint-Gabriel, Quebec - Finding is outside the regulated area

OTTAWA, Aug. 4, 2016 /CNW/ - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in the Municipality of D'Autray in the town of Saint-Gabriel, Quebec. This marks a find outside of the current regulated area which includes the regional county municipalities (MRCs) of southwest Quebec, from Pontiac to Acton, and the entire southern region of Ontario.

Effective immediately, the movement of all ash material such as logs, branches, and wood chips, as well as all species of firewood from the affected site, is restricted. Property owners in the affected area are being notified of these restrictions. Other enforcement measures, such as expanding the regulated area, may be implemented once the CFIA completes its survey work before the end of 2016.

Although EAB poses no threat to human health, it is a highly destructive beetle. It has already killed millions of ash trees in Ontario, Quebec and the United States, and poses a major economic and environmental threat to urban and forested areas of North America. The CFIA continues to work with federal, provincial, and municipal governments to slow its spread.

Quick Facts

The Emerald Ash Borer is native to China and eastern Asia. It was first confirmed in Canada in 2002.

Emerald Ash Borer is considered present only in some areas of Ontario and Quebec, and is regulated by the CFIA to protect Canada's forests and nurseries.

Moving untreated firewood is a common way for invasive insects and diseases to spread. Don't move firewood.

Associated Link

Additional information on the Emerald Ash Borer can be found at the CFIA website.

SOURCE Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

For further information: Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 613-773-6600