Emerald Ash Borer found in Columbiana County

REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio — Ohio Department of Agriculture officials have confirmed the presence of emerald ash borer in Columbiana and Guernsey counties. Residents are being urged to use caution when transporting firewood to help protect against the artificial spread of this and other insect pests.

In June 2011, the state agriculture department’s emerald ash borer quarantine was officially rescinded because the pest has been found throughout most of the state, including Wayne National Forest.

Despite lifting the state quarantine, officials recommend that Ohioans continue to exercise caution when moving ash and other woody materials. Residents are encouraged to buy and burn local firewood.

A federal quarantine for Ohio, enforced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, remains in effect. This quarantine makes it illegal to transport ash trees, parts of ash trees and all hardwood firewood out of the state of Ohio.

For information on the emerald ash borer, visit www.agri.ohio.gov.