Minnesota launches 2010 gypsy moth trapping effort
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture plans to set nearly 23,000 gypsy moth traps across eastern Minnesota this spring.
It's part of an annual program to monitor forests and cities for infestations of the destructive pest.
Gypsy moth caterpillars eat the leaves of many tree species, including oak, poplar, birch and willow. Severe infestations and repeated defoliation can kill affected trees.
When state officials trap a significant number of moths in an area, it orders treatments to control them.
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Last year's monitoring discovered record numbers of gypsy moths moving inland from the North Shore of Lake Superior, but very few in other parts of the state. Control treatments are planned for later this spring and summer along the North Shore.
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On the Net: MDA Gypsy Moth Program
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