European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) is a nonnative, invasive insect which has infested most of North America since its introduction in the early 1900's. Its host range constitutes a wide range of plants, including important food and nursery crops grown in this state. The director of agriculture, pursuant to authorities in chapter
17.24 RCW, has determined that the exclusion of European corn borer at all stages of its life cycle is necessary to protect the environmental quality and agricultural crops of the state of Washington.