Inspectors try to slow spread of emerald ash borer

Minnesota officials are taking steps to enforce quarantines that are meant to protect trees against the spread of the emerald ash border.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture and other agencies this week started inspecting commercial vehicles to verify compliance with quarantines in place for Hennepin, Ramsey and Houston Counties.

The random, unannounced inspections are targeting ash tree waste, packing material or hardwood firewood exiting the quarantine areas without proper certification.

The State Patrol initially inspected 233 vehicles and referred 10 cars for additional inspections by experts. Those inspections revealed no quarantine violations.

With more than 975 million ash trees, Minnesota is a prime target for the emerald ash borer.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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