The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) will soon begin aerial treatments designed to control the gypsy moth population in Ohio. Treatments on 3,258 acres in Hocking, Muskingum, Perry and Vinton counties will begin in early May, as larva and leaf development reach the optimal threshold for treatment.
Treatments are administered using a low-flying aircraft that flies just above tree tops. High humidity, low temperature and minimal wind are crucial for a successful application. Treatment will most likely take place during early morning hours.
ODA will be using two kinds of treatments to control the gypsy moth caterpillar population, Foray (Btk) and Gypchek (NPV). Foray (Btk) is a naturally occurring bacterium found in the soil that interferes with the caterpillars’ feeding cycles. Gypchek (NPV) is a naturally occurring virus that affects only the gypsy moth caterpillar when ingested. Both treatments are not toxic to humans, pets, birds, bees or fish.
Ohioans can view maps of treatment blocks at ODA’s Gypsy Moth website. When the project begins, daily updates on treatment progress across the state will be available on the websiteor by calling (614) 387-0907 or (614) 728-6400.
Gypsy moths are invasive insects that defoliate over 300 species of trees and shrubs. In its caterpillar stage, the moth feeds on the leaves of trees and shrubs and is especially fond of oak. A healthy tree can usually withstand only two years of defoliation before it is permanently damaged or dies. In Ohio, 51 counties are currently under gypsy moth quarantine regulations.
The department uses three programs to manage the gypsy moth population in Ohio.
The suppression program is used in counties where the pest is already established, but landowners voluntarily request treatment to help suppress populations. The second program, slow-the-spread, occurs in counties in front of the larger, advancing gypsy moth population. The third program is the eradication program, used in counties where isolated populations develop ahead of advancing moth populations due to human movement of the moth. Officials work to detect and control isolated populations to slow the overall advancement of the gypsy moth infestation.
For more information about the gypsy moth or for specific treatment locations, visit ODA’s Gypsy Moth webpage.