The Whole State Of Louisiana Is Under A Federal Fire Ant Quarantine

(KHLA - Lake Charles, Louisiana) - The entire state of Louisiana is currently under a Federal Ant Quarantine.

If you're confused, join the club. What exactly is a fire ant quarantine? We'll dive into that and so much more in this article.

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History of Fire Ants

Even though they're everywhere, fire ants aren't a native species to the USA. In fact, fire ants were introduced to our country around 1930 in the ports of Mobile, AL possibly in the soil used as ship ballast from trade ships from South America.

They quickly multiplied and spread over many states in the USA.

What states have fire ants?

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• California
• Florida
• Georgia
• Louisiana
• Mississippi
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• Oklahoma
• Puerto Rico
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Why is Louisiana under a Federal Fire Ant Quarantine?

Fire ants have a reputation for being extremely hostile and swiftly taking over yards, gardens, electrical equipment, and even farms.

A Federal Fire Ant Quarantine is now in effect in the whole state of Louisiana due in part to the fact that fire ants are one of the main issues that cause short circuits or fires by invading electrical boxes and equipment.

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The quarantine comes into play when objects are wanting to be moved during this time period like plants, soil, hay, mulch, farm equipment, etc..

They have to be inspected and verified to make sure that there are no traces of fire ants.