Movement Of Ash Trees And Firewood From Norfolk County Prohibited, Canada

Main Category: Water - Air Quality / Agriculture
Article Date: 19 Feb 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is taking decisive action to limit the spread of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) in Ontario.

"The Government of Canada is working hard to limit the spread of the emerald ash borer," said Minister Gerry Ritz. "We all have a responsibility to do what we can to protect Canada's valuable forests and the Government of Canada is committed to working with provinces and municipalities to protect ash trees."

"Today's announcement is important for Norfolk," said the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration and Member of Parliament for Haldimand-Norfolk. "This means we will be able to protect our forests and woodlots and protect Norfolk's proud recognition as Canada's forest capital."

The movement of potentially infested material will be strictly controlled in Norfolk County under a Ministerial Order. The pest is primarily spread to new areas through the movement of infested firewood, ash tree and other materials.

EAB poses an environmental and economic threat in North America. As a result, Canada and the U.S. are working together to combat its spread.

The public can play an important role in limiting the spread of this invasive beetle by not removing any firewood or ash tree materials from EAB-infested areas such as those in Norfolk County.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency