June 20 – Plans are forming to control Norfolk County’s first major gypsy moth outbreak in over a decade.
This invasive pest has become very noticeable across the countryside and in towns around Norfolk. Some of the most affected areas include Charlotteville Township, the south end of Windham Township, Simcoe and Port Dover.
Through a partnership with the Norfolk Woodlot Owners Association, Norfolk staff will be assessing the situation over the 2019 growing season and coming forward with recommendations for 2020, which may include a treatment program in the spring of 2020.
Treatment must occur in the early spring when leaf development, larvae development, and weather conditions align to provide suitable conditions for effective pesticide application. Unless vast amounts of acreage of woodlands in a particular area are treated, spraying cannot be relied upon for large scale population control.
Norfolk residents participated in a large scale control program in 2008. As a result, 7500 acres of woodland were sprayed with a treatment that is not toxic to humans or other animals.
If you wish to receive more information on spraying for gypsy moths in 2020 or to participate in ongoing monitoring for defoliation and egg masses in 2019, please contact Forestry Staff at the Norfolk County Community Services Division. The information provided will be used to help predict populations for next year. Those interested can call 519-426-5870 or 226-NORFOLK ext. 2224, 2221 or 2217.
