Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is set to host an open house on March 27, 2024, at the Galena Public Library in Galena, Illinois. The event aims to explain the department's plan for treating parts of northwest Illinois affected by the Spongy Moth infestation.

The Spongy Moth, formerly known as the gypsy moth, is a non-native pest capable of causing significant damage to trees by stripping them bare. This defoliation leaves trees vulnerable to disease and environmental stressors and can lead to tree death if severe or repeated. Unlike other pests such as the emerald ash borer that targets specific trees, Spongy Moth caterpillars feed on over 250 plant species with a preference for oak, willow, and even pine trees.

Treatment plans involve applying either Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki (BtK) or mating disruption (MD), depending on infestation levels. The BtK product used will be Valent Foray 48B - Organic, applied by helicopter in mid-May with a follow-up application two weeks later. BtK is known for being environmentally friendly and safe for people and animals.

In Carroll County, airplanes will apply Splat GM-Organic in mid-June. This product uses a pheromone specific to Spongy Moths to disrupt mating patterns by preventing males from locating females.

The IDOA encourages those interested in learning more about these treatment methods to attend the open house where staff will be present to answer questions. Queries can also be directed to their DeKalb Office via phone at 815-787-5476 or email Nancy.Johnson@Illinois.gov. Treatment maps are available online at slowthespread.org/pages/illinois-outreach.