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More counties to be quarantined to contain gypsy moth

By: Nicolas VENNER

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced two additional counties will be placed under quarantine to control the spread of Lymantria dispar, the destructive pest historically known as “gypsy moth” that destroys trees and shrubs. Boone and Winnebago counties will join LaSalle and seven other counties in the Department’s quarantine order.
Lymantria dispar is a non-native pest that can strip plants bare, leaving them susceptible to disease. Severe defoliation can cause tree death. Unlike the emerald ash borer, another non-native pest, which feeds exclusively on ash trees, the Lymantria dispar is not a picky eater. It will devour almost anything leafy and green as it feeds on over 250 species of plants, but especially prefers oak and willow trees. Under the quarantine, all nursery and lumber products must be inspected or certified before they can be transported out of the ten counties. In addition, residents of these counties must personally inspect vehicles, tents, outdoor lawn furniture, bicycles and other outdoor items for Lymantria dispar egg masses, live moths and caterpillars before taking them from the quarantine zone. Anyone convicted of illegally removing prohibited items from the quarantine area may be fined up to $500 and the items themselves must be either immediately removed from the non-infested area or immediately destroyed.

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