The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture is hosting a series of public forums to present a proposed gypsy moth treatment plan to residents, called the Slow the Spread Program.
Wisconsin AG Connection reported the treatment plan will affect 203,000 acres in 22 counties across the state that have elevated or reproducing populations of gypsy moths. The treatment will involve pest control services in the spring and summer to prevent the further spread of the moths, known to destroy trees and shrubs.
"The gypsy moth is a serious pest that threatens our forests and urban trees, and it can have a negative impact on Wisconsin's timber, paper, nursery and tourism industries," said Randy Sthokal, the coordinator of the Slow the Spread Program.
Residents attending the meetings will have access to maps of the areas set to receive treatment, and can discuss the program with staff while learning more about the dangers of the moths. Counties scheduled to receive treatment for gypsy moths include Barron, Chippewa, Green, Polk and Vernon.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the gypsy moth originally evolved in Europe and Asia, and was accidentally introduced to the United States in 1869. Since 1890, the federal government has worked to eradicate the gypsy moth, but the populations have continued to spread. The moths are known to feed on some 500 species of trees and shrubs, adding biological stress to plants affected by the bugs.