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Plants and soil can't be moved across a wide swath of Vancouver after the discovery of the Japanese beetle.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says plants and soil can't leave an area that includes neighbourhoods in False Creek, Chinatown and Mount Pleasant.
The Japanese beetle is a pest that attacks ornamental plants, grasses, fruits, vegetables, trees and agricultural crops.
The city says it is working with the agency and other groups to respond to the presence of the beetle, found originally in the False Creek area.
A city notice says it plans to treat all its turf on public lands within the affected area, which covers nine parks.
City manager Sadhu Johnston says in a news release the risk posed by the beetle is being taken seriously and the municipality will ensure green spaces, gardens, lawns and agricultural land stays healthy.
