Wisconsin DATCP to begin aerial spraying for spongy moths in May [Video]

MADISON, Wis. (WSAW) – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection plans to treat select areas in nine western Wisconsin counties for spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) starting in May.

People in those nine counties can expect loud, low-flying planes in the affected areas as early as 5 a.m.

From May to early June, planes will spray Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk), targeting spongy moth caterpillars in the following counties: Barron, Buffalo, Chippewa, Crawford, Dunn, Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, and Rusk.

DATCP says Btk is a naturally occurring soil bacteria that kills spongy moth caterpillars feeding on treated canopy foliage. It is not toxic to people, bees, pets, or other animals. Some people with severe allergies may wish to stay indoors during nearby treatment applications. Btk is used in certified organic food production.

In late June to mid-July, planes will spray an organic, biodegradable mating disruptor containing spongy moth pheromone in the following counties: Dunn, Grant, and Lafayette. These pheromone treatments …