LDD (Lyamntria dispar dispar aka gypsy) Moth Spraying

This is the time of year the MPOA starts receiving requests about how to arrange aerial spraying for the caterpillars that cause defoliation, raining ‘frass’ (poop pellets), and annoying moths. Some areas of the lake seem to have far fewer egg masses this year and it may be that the outbreak is ending naturally in those areas due to the emergence of organisms (a bacteria and/or a virus) that kill caterpillars. Many cottagers reported large numbers of dead caterpillars last summer.

You may wish to survey your property to see the number of egg masses on trees. The egg masses can be destroyed before hatching by removing them with a scraper or handheld vacuum and immersing in soapy water for two days. This would need to be done before the eggs hatch which usually occurs around May 24 in the Mazinaw area. Alternatively, you may decide to spray a bacteria (Bacillus Thuringiensis) to kill the small caterpillars. This is accomplished by professional companies which spray from a helicopter twice in the weeks immediately following the hatch. These bacteria can infect and kill LDD caterpillars but may also infect other beneficial caterpillars.

Two different companies offer this service, and both require registration before March 1, 2022. If you choose to spray, there is a process whereby you need to consult and get consent/participation of neighbours. The fee for this service is about $400 per acre.

MPOA is NOT recommending a spraying program, but is providing the names of the companies that offer this service as a convenience to our members.

Zimmer Aviation: 519-676-9550

Ontario Centre for Forest Defoliation Control: 888-9969372 or 226-996-9702

Bob Reid, MPOA President

www.lakemazinaw.ca