The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Forest Service, will conduct targeted aerial treatments to manage spongy moth populations in Pittsylvania County beginning today and continuing through June 20.
The aerial treatments will take place over two identified forested areas in the Dry Fork and Axton areas, covering 8,411 acres. Residents in the affected areas may notice low-flying aircraft operating from daybreak to nightfall.
A recent trapping survey showed these areas exhibited isolated low-level populations of Lymantria dispar dispar, commonly known as the spongy moth—an invasive forest pest that threatens hardwood forests across Virginia, especially oak species. Notification letters were sent to 3,500 property owners.
The treatment involves the aerial application of a spongy moth mating disruption pheromone. The treatment materials being used are federally approved and pose no risk to humans, animals, pollinators, or surrounding vegetation. The pheromone works by disrupting the ability of male moths to locate females, reducing successful reproduction and limiting population growth.
Information about this invasive forest pest can also be found on the following web sites: