HARRISBURG, Pa. — Those who are seeking treatment for spongy moth caterpillars this spring are being urged to begin planning treatment operations now.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is urging forest managers and woodlot owners to treat against spongy moth caterpillars to protect trees and forests.
Spongy moth populations have been observed at outbreak levels over the past three years and foresters are encouraging those who own or manage private forests to book aerial spraying while there is still availability. Spongy moth egg mass surveys are the most effective way to determine the need for treatment.
“Private forest landowners play a critical role in assuring the overall health of forests in Pennsylvania,” State Forester Seth Cassell said. “By opting to treat for spongy moth caterpillars, where necessary, forest stewards across the state can help in the fight against these harmful insects.”
The DCNR offers a list of aerial applicators on its website, as well as a guide for conducting spongy moth suppression on private lands, and service foresters in each county to advise on spongy moth suppression efforts.
Maximum treatment effectiveness is achieved by targeting caterpillars at a specific developmental stage, a period known as "the treatment window," which generally occurs in May.
The DCNR reportedly conducted major spongy moth suppression treatments in 2023, treating more than 290,000 acres of state forest and state park lands. The Pennsylvania Game Commission also joined the DCNR in the effort to control spongy moths by treating over 100,000 acres of state game lands in 2023.
The DCNR has planned another large suppression treatment program for 2024 at roughly 228,000 acres.
