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| ODA begins gypsy moth insect trapping statewide | ||
| 05/14/2008 | ||
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The Oregon Department of Agriculture has begun placing thousands of insect traps throughout the state in an annual effort to detect gypsy moth and other exotic, invasive, plant-eating pests. All traps should be set by mid-July and will be checked by ODA technicians throughout the summer. Most traps will be removed by late September. Detecting invasive species of insects before they become widespread is fundamental to the success of ODA's Insect Pest Prevention and Management Program. Early detection of invasive insect populations makes for smaller, more defined gypsy moth eradication efforts should they be needed. Approximately 18,000 gypsy moth traps are being placed in Oregon, most being set west of the Cascades. The bright green or orange tent-like cardboard traps contain a non-toxic female sex pheromone that attracts adult male gypsy moths. Inside, a sticky substance keeps the winged pest from escaping. Detection efforts in 2007 led to the trapping of 11 gypsy moths statewide, including six in Shady Cove. Information from the traps led to ODA's decision to conduct an eradication program for gypsy moth in the Jackson County community this spring, where spraying is scheduled to be completed on May 20, weather permitting. At that time, a high density of traps will be placed in Shady Cove. Eradication projects are primarily based on gypsy moth trapping results of the previous year. ODA is asking for homeowner's cooperation to allow traps to be placed on private property. Homeowners are advised to keep an eye on traps that may be placed on or near their property, making sure that the traps remain undisturbed. The traps are typically non-toxic, but people are encouraged to avoid handling them. Anyone noticing a damaged trap or who has concerns about ODA's insect pest detection efforts should contact the Insect Pest Prevention and Management Program at (503) 986-4636 or 1-800-525-0137. -------------------- Media contact: Helmuth Rogg at (503) 986-4662. |
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