The state of Wisconsin has issued an ash tree product quarantine for Milwaukee, Waukesha and Racine counties in an effort to slow the spread of the tree-killing emerald ash borer.
The quarantine, which prohibits ash exports from the affected counties, goes into effect this Monday.
Materials such as live trees, ash logs and timber, and all species of hardwood are included in the quarantine, though there is an exemption for firewood dealers who receive state certification.
The invasive beetle has been found in seven Wisconsin counties, and as of Monday, state or federal quarantines will exist in 11 state counties.
The quarantine is the result of an emergency rule issued by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
A public hearing on the rule is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Franklin Public Library, 9151 W. Loomis Road in Franklin.
For more information: www.emeraldashborer.wi.gov.