Pennsylvania officials are ramping up efforts to control the spongy moth to prevent its spread. This invasive insect, previously known as the gypsy moth, has established itself in the state with fluctuating numbers. The Pennsylvania Game Commission plans to allocate $2.4 million to spray 124,000 acres this year, an increase from the previous years. The spraying will target regions in the Southcentral, Northcentral, Southeast, Southwest, and Northeast parts of the state to protect habitat and prevent damage to oak trees.
The lack of leaf cover caused by the spongy moth infestation can lead to wildfires as the sunlight dries out the forest floor. Both the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will be spraying their lands to limit the moth population and defoliation. While the goal is mitigation, not eradication, the efforts aim to protect important areas as best as possible.
Not controlling the spongy moth could have consequences for Pennsylvania’s wildlife, as oak forest habitats are valuable for various species. The actions taken now are crucial to maintaining balance in wildlife populations that depend on acorn crops. This includes bears, turkeys, and other animals that rely on oak trees for their survival.
