HARRISBURG, PA — The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is urging Pennsylvania landowners to take immediate steps to protect forests and woodlands from the destructive spongy moth, a pest responsible for devastating millions of trees across the state. With populations reaching critical outbreak levels over the past three years, the agency has emphasized the importance of early planning for this spring’s treatment efforts to mitigate widespread damage.
“Private landowners play a critical role in protecting Pennsylvania’s forests,” said State Forester Seth Cassell. “Early action against spongy moth caterpillars can help prevent widespread tree loss.”
The spongy moth (Lymantria dispar dispar), an invasive species, has been a persistent threat to Pennsylvania’s vast woodland resources. Oak trees, in particular, but also other species such as hemlock, pine, birch, and spruce are among the moth’s primary food sources. The moth’s caterpillar stage is especially destructive, as it feeds intensively during May, stripping trees of their leaves and leaving them vulnerable to secondary diseases and environmental pressures.
Timely Treatment and Coordination
DCNR is encouraging property owners to secure aerial spraying services now, as the treatment window is both narrow and highly dependent on the pest’s development cycle. Effective spraying must target small caterpillars in May while they are in the early stages of growth. Additionally, the demand for aerial applicators is high, meaning appointments should be scheduled promptly.
Spongy moth egg mass surveys help determine which areas require treatment. Female moths lay tan egg masses in easily identifiable clusters, with each mass containing anywhere from 100 to 1,500 eggs. These masses, found on trees, rocks, and similar surfaces, offer vital clues about the severity and extent of an infestation.
To combat spongy moth outbreaks, DCNR uses environmentally safe insecticides such as Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk) and Tebufenozide (Mimic). These methods have proven highly effective in suppressing infestations while minimizing harm to surrounding ecosystems.
Proactive Statewide Efforts
Last year, DCNR treated over 227,000 acres of public forest lands, while the Pennsylvania Game Commission addressed infestations on 120,000 acres. For 2024, DCNR plans to focus its efforts on approximately 75,000 acres in northeastern and central Pennsylvania, while the Game Commission aims to treat about 38,000 acres.
The state’s aggressive treatment campaigns have begun to yield positive results, with some regions reporting significant population declines. However, the threat persists, especially in light of Pennsylvania’s unique land ownership patterns, where nearly 70 percent of forested areas are privately held. This dynamic puts significant responsibility on individual landowners to act as stewards of the state’s natural resources.
The Broader Impact of Spongy Moth Infestations
The spongy moth problem extends far beyond oak trees. Caterpillars have been documented feeding on a diverse range of species, including aspens, tamaracks, willows, basswood, and even witch hazel. Widespread defoliation contributes to biodiversity loss, disrupts ecosystems, and compromises habitats for forest-dependent wildlife.
Efforts to address the infestation speak to a broader strategy in maintaining Pennsylvania’s vibrant forest landscapes, which play a role in tourism, recreation, and the broader economy. DCNR hopes that by acting decisively, both public agencies and private landowners can prevent further forest degradation and promote recovery.
Looking Ahead
The DCNR’s call to action emphasizes the collective responsibility required to protect Pennsylvania’s forests. Through proactive measures such as early treatment and widespread engagement with suppression programs, the goal remains to mitigate the damage and preserve the state’s woodlands for future generations.
With a coordinated approach and continued investment in science-based intervention strategies, Pennsylvania’s forests can rebound from the pressures posed by the ongoing spongy moth outbreaks. The success of such efforts requires a partnership between state agencies, landowners, and communities, ensuring that one of Pennsylvania’s most valuable natural resources remains safeguarded for years to come.
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