Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is planning to manage spongy moth infestations in nine counties across eastern Minnesota this summer. These pests, known for their destructive impact on trees, have been spreading into northeastern and southeastern parts of the state.

The MDA conducts annual surveys to detect emerging infestations and uses aerial management to control them before they spread further. Recently, there has been an increase in spongy moth populations pushing westward.

In response, 43 treatment areas covering approximately 115,000 acres are proposed in Aitkin, Anoka, Carlton, Fillmore, Houston, Itasca, Pine, St. Louis, and Winona counties. Management methods include the use of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk), a biological insecticide certified for food crops, and mating disruption using pheromones specific to spongy moths.

Management activities are scheduled from May through July depending on insect development and weather conditions. The MDA has previously conducted successful treatments that help delay large-scale invasions of the pest while saving money for local communities and protecting forest health.

Residents in proposed treatment areas can view an interactive map on the MDA website to check if they are affected. They are also invited to attend informational meetings:

- March 18: Virtual meeting on southeast Minnesota activities.

- March 19: Open house in Coon Rapids about Btk management.

- March 20: Virtual meeting on northeast Minnesota activities.

Registration for virtual meetings is available via the MDA website. Postcards with additional information will be sent to residents in treatment areas.

Comments on proposed management activities can be submitted until April 15 via mail or email to Kimberly Thielen Cremers at the MDA.

For more details or notifications about spongy moth management and maps of proposed areas, visit the MDA website.