Fire ant quarantine expands to Macon and Graham counties
A state quarantine to prevent the spread of the imported fire ant has expanded to include Macon and Graham counties, bringing the total number of counties included in the quarantine to 74. Many of the mountain counties are still exempt.
Considered a nuisance and health concern for people and animals alike, the imported fire ant has a painful sting. It was first identified in Brunswick County in 1957. To prevent its spread, the quarantine requires residents and business owners in affected areas to obtain a permit before moving plants, sod or related equipment into or through non-infested areas.
“Fire ants can be harmful to humans and livestock. It is critical we continue proactive efforts to slow down fire ant movement into non-infested areas of the state,” said Vernon Cox, director of the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Plant Industry Division.
Permits are available through the state’s Plant Protection Section, 800.206.9333.
