Highly destructive beetle found on Manitoulin Island

NEWS RELEASE

CANADIAN FOOD INSPECTION AGENCY

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Emerald Ash Borer confirmed on Manitoulin Island

OTTAWA (November 28, 2011) -  The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of the emerald ash borer (EAB) on Manitoulin Island in Ontario.

One adult beetle was collected from a survey trap at Highway 6, Sheguindah, Manitoulin Island as part of our national detection survey for EAB.

Movement restrictions, which prohibit the movement of all ash materials - such as logs, branches and wood chips - and all species of firewood from the affected site, have been put in place.

Property owners in the affected area have been notified of these restrictions.

Further regulatory measures are being considered.

The presence of EAB has now been confirmed in 25 Ontario counties, and in three areas in the province of Quebec.

Although EAB does not pose a risk to human health, it is a highly destructive beetle.

It has already killed millions of ash trees in Ontario and the northeastern United States, and poses a major economic threat to urban and forested areas of North America.
EAB can spread rapidly if it is moved by people.

The most important way to limit the spread of this invasive beetle is to avoid moving potentially infested ash materials, as well as all species of firewood, to non-infested areas.

The public can play its part in helping to control the spread of EAB by not moving firewood and ash materials.

The CFIA will work with affected stakeholders and First Nations communities in the area, as well as federal, provincial and municipal governments, towards slowing the spread of EAB.

We all have a responsibility to protect Canada's forests.

Additional information is available on the CFIA website or by calling 1-866-463-6017.

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