As part of its efforts to manage the spongy moth population, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has embarked on an aerial spraying campaign. The operation will encompass 123,000 acres of state game land, with the aim of eliminating the invasive pest.
Spraying operations will commence once leaf-out occurs and spongy moth eggs hatch, a period anticipated to occur in late April or May. While hunters and trappers may encounter aircraft spraying forested areas during this time, the Game Commission assures that these activities will be brief and temporary.
The commission emphasizes that aerial spraying will not take place on the first morning of youth turkey season on April 27 or the first day of the spring turkey season on May 4.
The spraying solution employed is Mimic 2LV, which is generally considered safe for human exposure. However, the commission advises precautionary measures to prevent eye or skin irritation in the event of exposure.
The Game Commission recognizes the potential impact of spraying on hunting activities but emphasizes the long-term benefits of protecting valuable habitats from the destructive spongy moth. By controlling the moth population, the commission aims to preserve hunting grounds for future generations.
For further details regarding this initiative, please refer to the official Game Commission website.
