Aerial spraying to begin for gypsy moths in Bayfield and Douglas counties

Weather permitting, aerial spraying to control the spread of gypsy moths will begin June 27 in locations in Bayfield and Douglas counties, including part of the city of Superior.

The spraying may last throughout the week and may start as early as 6 a.m., according to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection’s Gypsy Moth Slow the Spread Program. Planes will apply pheromone flakes that disrupt the moths’ mating. The flakes are not toxic to people, bees, animals, birds or plants. People who are uncomfortable or have allergies may wish to stay indoors or leave the area until the spraying is done.

The gypsy moth is a destructive and invasive pest that feeds on the leaves of oaks, maples, crabapple, birch and many other species of trees and shrubs.

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