Gypsy Moth spray program

The Town of Pelham, in an effort to control the gypsy moth infestations, will conduct an aerial spray program sometime between mid-May to early June. A final date is pending and dependent on weather conditions.

The spray program will be administered by Trees Unlimited, working with Zimmer Air, covering a total of 165 acres consisting of public and private property.

Final mapping for the affected areas is currently underway and those homes identified in the spray blocks will be notified by direct mail. Properties just outside of the spray blocks will also be notified by mail. There is not an option to opt in or out of the program.

The spray program uses a biological insecticide called Foray 48B, its active ingredient being a naturally occurring soil bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis v.kurstaki, or Btk, which only affects spring caterpillars feeding in the upper canopy of hardwoods. Btk will not harm other insects, birds, mammals, or humans.

To learn more about the program and to view additional resources, please visit: www.pelham.ca/gypsy-moth; this page will be updated with pertinent informatoin and details as they emerge.