(KMZA)--The emerald ash borer continues to spread in Kansas, with the latest sighting of the invasive beetle confirmed in Nemaha County.

The Kansas Forest Service, working with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension Office, confirmed the presence of the pest at a private residence in Nemaha County last week.

The emerald ash borer had been suspected to be in the county for some time. However, this is the first time a live insect was found to definitely confirm it.

Its the second Kansas county with a confirmed sighting this year. The insect was discovered earlier this year in Lyon County.

The pest has already killed hundreds of millions of Ash trees across the U.S. and Canada, and with the last sighting in Nemaha County has now spread to 15 Kansas counties.

Forest officials urge landowners to recognize signs of infestation and to develop replacement plans for declining ash trees, promoting a diverse landscape for greater resilience against pests and diseases.