First Aerial Spray for Spongy Moth scheduled for May 24, 2022

helicopter with spray spongy moth spray program

The first application of the 2022 aerial spray program for the Spongy Moth (LDD Moth) previously known as Gypsy Moth, is scheduled for Tuesday May 24, 2022 between 6:30am and 8:30am.

The application is highly influenced by weather conditions and the date and timing may change on short notice. The Town will take all reasonable steps to ensure that residents are kept informed. If the weather is not cooperative, the spray will not occur and the Town will update the dedicated Spongy Moth section of the website at www.pelham.ca/lddmoth and social media.

Weather Permitting a second aerial spray application will occur within 7 days of the first.

The spray is completed by Zimmer Air with a twin-engine helicopter; residents can expect high audible levels as the helicopter completes its path.

Members of the public are unlikely to experience any health effects, and no special precautions are necessary or required. Individuals who have concerns should take reasonable precautions to avoid exposure during an application period of the program.

While no special precautions need to be taken, the following measures may be considered by residents living in treatment areas:

  • Whenever possible, remain indoors for 30 minutes after spraying to allow for the droplets to deposit onto the tree leaves.
  • Bringing laundry, toys and pets indoors before spraying begins.
  • Practice good personal and food hygiene (e.g., hand washing after outdoor activities, especially after gardening; leaving outdoor shoes at the door; washing all fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking).
  • Covering lawn furniture, outdoor tables, pools, BBQs, play equipment and sandboxes and/or rinsing them off with water after spraying is finished.
  • Minimize opening and closing windows and doors during the spraying.
  • Shutting off the heating/cooling vents or selecting the recirculate setting.
  • Contacting your family physician if you are concerned that a personal medical condition may be aggravated by the spraying.

For more information about the Spongy Moth aerial spray program, including spray maps and frequently asked questions, visit: www.pelham.ca/lddmoth