USDA restricts importation of ash from Canada to prevent borer

In a move to prevent the spread of emerald ash borer (EAB), USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service restricted the movement of ash nursery stock from Canada into the United States.

USDA prohibited any ash nursery stock imported into the United States from EAB-regulated areas in Canada.

Previously, APHIS concluded small ash trees (18 inches high and 1/2 inch or less in diameter) could be shipped across the border because it was viewed these products could not serve as a host for the pest. However, APHIS found EAB on ash stock that measured less than 1/2 inch in diameter. As a result, the importation of all ash trees, regardless of size, has been restricted from Canada.

Ash nursery stock originating from areas not regulated for EAB, but lie within regulated Canadian provinces or territories, must be accompanied by an import permit from APHIS. Import permits are not required for nursery stock originating in unregulated provinces or territories and for Fraxinus seeds from anywhere in Canada.

The restrictions and prohibitions also include wood chips and bark chips larger than 1 inch diameter.

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For more: Hesham Abuelnaga, APHIS, (301) 734-6334; hesham.a.abuelnaga@usda.gov.