Preventing the Spread of Spongy Moth FAQs
Areas are quarantined for spongy moth once the moths have invaded and become permanently established. Spongy moth quarantines are intended to slow the human-assisted or artificial spread of spongy moth from infested to non-infested areas. The quarantine makes it illegal to transport potentially infested items (such as logs, firewood, nursery stock, campers, and picnic tables) from the quarantined area to a non-quarantined area without first taking appropriate actions.
For the general public, self-inspection of items that could be harboring spongy moth and removal of all spongy moth life stages is required prior to moving items to a non-quarantined area.
What is a Spongy Moth Quarantine?
Areas are quarantined for spongy moth once the moths have invaded and become permanently established. Spongy moth quarantines are intended to slow the human-assisted or artificial spread of spongy moth from infested to non-infested areas. The quarantine makes it illegal to transport potentially infested items (such as logs, firewood, nursery stock, campers, and picnic tables) from the quarantined area to a non-quarantined area without first taking appropriate actions.
For the general public, self-inspection of items that could be harboring spongy moth and removal of all spongy moth life stages is required prior to moving items to a non-quarantined area.
- Inspect outdoor items: Check items like vehicles, trailers, camping gear, furniture, and tools for spongy moth life stages (egg masses, caterpillars, pupae).
- Remove and destroy: Safely remove and destroy any spongy moth eggs or other life stages before traveling.
- Follow quarantine rules: Avoid transporting items that might carry spongy moths into non-quarantined areas.
- Do NOT move firewood: Spongy moth and other insects and diseases are easily transported to new locations on firewood. Never assume wood that "looks safe" is okay to move. The quarantine makes it illegal to transport potentially infested items such as firewood.
How can I prevent spreading spongy moths when visiting or leaving a quarantined area?
- Inspect outdoor items: Check items like vehicles, trailers, camping gear, furniture, and tools for spongy moth life stages (egg masses, caterpillars, pupae).
- Remove and destroy: Safely remove and destroy any spongy moth eggs or other life stages before traveling.
- Follow quarantine rules: Avoid transporting items that might carry spongy moths into non-quarantined areas.
- Do NOT move firewood: Spongy moth and other insects and diseases are easily transported to new locations on firewood. Never assume wood that "looks safe" is okay to move. The quarantine makes it illegal to transport potentially infested items such as firewood.
