W.Va. begins 2011 gypsy moth program

[Willis]

CHARLESTON (AP) - The state is taking applications from landowners for next year's gypsy moth eradication program.
Landowners in 34 counties can sign up through Aug. 31. Applications are available through local West Virginia University extension offices, state Department of Agriculture field offices, or through the department's plant industries division website.
Landowners must provide a map with property boundaries clearly marked. A minimum of 50 acres of wooded landed is required.
Once applications are received, properties will be inspected to determine if the level of gypsy moth infestation meets program guidelines.

I'll let Camille tell us the significance of this announcement, if it affects our Blue Ridge.

[campbell]

This refers to the egg mass survey application that the SGMC does every year for Shannondale/River View Park/John Brown Farm. It's a very important part in our efforts to suppress gyspy moths in these communities. These surveys show what the status is and what we will be facing next year. I have concerns due to the extremely hot and dry spring we have had but hopefully it will take a few more years before the populations explode again. I will be turning in the application and map for Shannondale/RVP/JBF and I strongly encourage anyone who is not in these areas to apply as well. Just contact the extension office and they can send you an application.

[shadowplay]

I, for one, have not seen a single gypsy moth this year. I think this is the first year since before 2000 that I can say that. Hopefully we will not need to spray again next year, like we did not the last two. If people continue to at least make some effort at contributing in the off years, we will be in much better financial shape when spraying does become necessary again.

[campbell]

I delivered the gypsy moth egg mass survey request application to extension today so we are good to go for surveys of Shannondale, River View Park and John Brown Farm this fall. I was very pleased to hear that several other communities in Jefferson county had also applied for the surveys. That indicates to me that people are starting to understand the seriousness of the gypsy moth problem and are taking a proactive approach. If any one reading this forum lives outside of Shannondale/RVP/JBF and is interested in applying for a gypsy moth egg mass survey please PM me or contact extension for information. The deadline for applications is 8/30/10.
And BTW, what SP says is right on the mark. I have not seen any gypsy moth caterpillars this year either but contributions during the off years are very important since They Will Be Back!!!