Tree-Killing Bug Confined To Northern Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- A tree-killing beetle appears to be confined to northern Virginia.

Virginia Agriculture Commissioner Todd P. Haymore announced Tuesday that 14 traps in Arlington and Fairfax counties tested positive for the emerald ash borer. No evidence was found of the destructive pest in 3,260 other traps placed throughout the commonwealth last spring.

Haymore said the findings will help local officials develop plans to manage the beetle.

A quarantine was issued in 2008 for Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun and Prince William and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park after the emerald ash borer was found in Fairfax County.

The beetle feeds on the layer of wood just beneath the bark of ash trees, cutting off water and nutrients.