State Begins Gypsy Moth Treatment Program

The sounds of low-flying planes above Central Ohio today are part of the Ohio Department of Agriculture's attempt to reduce the gypsy moth population. Department spokesman Brett Gates says the planes, flying at one to two hundred feet above the treetops are spraying a treatment that prevents the moths from mating. "The gypsy moth is an invasive insect that is non-native to the country. it feeds on the leaves of more than 300 different tress and shrubs and is especially fond of oak. A healthy tree can usually withstand two years of defoliation before it is permanently damaged or dies," explained Gates. Gates says the gypsy moth is harmful to more than 300 specials of trees and shrubs. The Agriculture Department plans to spray more than 46-thousand acres in Franklin and Delaware counties by tomorrow.