If you spot yellow aircraft flying low over the trees this week, you may wonder if you’ve wandered into a scene from Alfred Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest.”
But don’t worry, you (probably) aren’t being chased by a crop duster like Cary Grant’s character in the classic 1959 film.
Starting Monday, June 23, the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) is treating several areas around the state for an invasive insect, the spongy moth (formerly the gypsy moth). And that treatment is being performed by planes flying roughly 100 feet above the treetops at the highest.
So, what areas are being treated? And is that treatment safe? Here’s what to know.
What are the invasive spongy moths in Ohio?
Spongy moths are invasive insects that defoliate over 300 species of trees and shrubs. In its caterpillar stage, the moth feeds on the leaves of trees and shrubs and is especially fond of oak, according to ODA.
In heavily infested areas, where there are 250 or more egg masses per acre, the spongy moth is able to completely strip the infested trees. A healthy tree can usually withstand only two years of defoliation before it is permanently damaged or dies.
In Ohio, 51 of 88 counties are currently under spongy moth quarantine regulations, meanings nursery items such as trees and shrubs, as well as logs, firewood, mulch or any other items that may hide the insect, including outdoor tables or play equipment, must be inspected and certified that they are free of spongy moths.
Which Ohio counties are being treated for spongy moths?
Per ODA, the following counties are being treated for spongy moths during the week of June 23:
Is the spongy moth treatment safe?
ODA is treating for the spongy moth using a single application of the product SPLAT GM-O. According to ODA, the product does not kill the moth, but it disrupts the mating process by confusing the male as it searches for a female mate. SPLAT is an organic and biodegradable formula that is harmless to birds, bees, plants, pets and humans.
If you are in contact with this product, simply wash the affected area with soap and water. Clothing can be cleaned with hot water and laundry detergent.
Treatment updates available
When treatment begins, daily updates will be available through the ODA’s Spongy Moth webpage, agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/spongy-moth-program, or by calling (614) 728-6400.
This article originally appeared on Farmers Advance: Ohio is treating for an invasive bug. So what is a spongy moth? Is the treatment safe?
Reporting by Chad Murphy / Farmers Advance
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
