Ohio expands emerald ash borer quarantine

REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio (AP) — A bug that kills trees has been detected in two southern Ohio counties, prompting the state to expand a quarantine.

Pike and Scioto counties have been added to list of counties where it’s illegal to remove ash trees or parts, or any hardwood firewood.

The restrictions are meant to slow the spread of the emerald ash borer. The Ohio Department of Agriculture officials said Tuesday the presence of the destructive beetle has been confirmed in the two latest counties by federal agriculture officials.

Fifty-two of Ohio’s 88 counties have now been quarantined. People who transport firewood or ash trees in violation of the law may face state fines of up to $4,000.