Staff from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) have announced plans to start treating spongy moth infestations in Waynesville on May 2. Treatment may extend through May 5, depending on weather conditions.
“We have a total of three blocks and 5,990 acres to treat,” stated Sara Lalk, NCDA&CS Forest Health Research Operations manager. According to Lalk, the initiative aims to tackle the reproducing population of spongy moths observed in the region. “In 2023, a total of 13 male moths were trapped in these blocks. That number jumped to 2,627 in 2024, warranting the need to treat.”
Low altitude helicopters will be used to apply Bacillus thuringiensis kurstakii (Btk), an organic biopesticide effective against spongy moth caterpillars, without posing harm to humans, pets, or plants.
Spongy moths, previously known as gypsy moths, consume the leaves of over 300 tree and shrub species, mainly affecting oaks and hardwoods. High infestation levels may lead to defoliation, making trees more vulnerable to further pest attacks, and potentially resulting in tree death. Additionally, spongy moth caterpillars can present health concerns, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues, as their hairs and droppings might provoke allergic reactions in densely infested areas.
The NCDA&CS, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, has been managing spongy moth introductions across North Carolina since the 1970s. Local homeowners were informed about the infestations and possible treatments earlier this year. Information sessions were conducted in affected communities, and public feedback was gathered for consideration.
For additional details or to sign up for treatment notifications by text or email, interested parties can visit the NCDA&CS website or contact them via a toll-free number.
