INFORMATION BULLETIN
For Immediate Release 2008FOR0159-001785 Nov. 21, 2008	Ministry of Forests and Range
2008 GYPSY MOTH PROGRAM SUCCEEDS

VICTORIA – The Province has succeeded in eliminating invasive gypsy moth populations in the Cowichan Valley community of Saltair and on Saltspring Island through its 2008 treatment program, with neither site requiring treatment in 2009.

 

No moths were caught in monitoring and treatment evaluation traps placed in either Saltair or Saltspring. A smaller moth population near Lake Cowichan does not appear to have survived either. Monitoring trapping will continue in those locations and others around the Province in 2009. The 2009 treatment program will be announced shortly. It will continue to use location-specific, trap and spray treatments to minimize the risk the moths pose to forests, farms, orchards, and trees.

 

The gypsy moth is an introduced pest species that can damage trees, especially Garry oaks, and overall forest health. Large gypsy moth populations defoliated sections of forests and residential areas in Ontario and the eastern U.S. in recent years. The moths are unintentionally brought to B.C. on vehicles and outdoor recreational equipment like lawn furniture from affected areas in eastern North America on an ongoing basis. Infested locations are often subject to product and transportation quarantines and area treatment, including individual vehicle checks, and annual aerial spraying.

 

            The Province began treating gypsy moths upon their discovery in B.C. in 1978. More information on the gypsy moth and how outbreaks are prevented and treated is available at www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfp/gypsymoth.

 

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Media contact:	Sophia Proctor Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Forests and Range 250 387-4592
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