Emergency Spongy Moth Quarantine in the City of Grand Rapids

Spongy Moth on a wood block
A quarantine limiting the movement of woody materials will be in place for a part of Grand Rapids

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is placing a spongy moth-infested area in Grand Rapids under temporary quarantine beginning May 1. This restricts the movement of woody materials outside the quarantined area. More information and a detailed quarantine map is available on the MDA website. The quarantine will be in effect from May 1, 2025, to June 15, 2026.

The following articles are regulated, and cannot be moved outside the quarantine area:

  • Spongy moth (Lymantria dispar L.) in any stage of development (egg, larva, pupa, adult)
  • Trees and shrubs with roots and persistent woody stems, unless they are greenhouse grown throughout the year.
  • Firewood, logs, woody limbs and branches over 1” in diameter. All species of ash (Fraxinus spp.) are excluded.
  • Any other outdoor household articles, or means of conveyance. Outdoor articles include but are not limited to: outdoor furniture, dog houses, garden tools, tents, awnings, boats, trailers, and recreational vehicles. 
  • Visit the MDA website for the complete list of regulated articles.

Due to delays and uncertainties with federal funds proposed Btk treatments for 2025 were canceled which resulted in the need for an                                                                                                            emergency spongy moth quarantine.

Contact reportapest@state.mn.us for any questions.

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