Gypsy Moth eradication is taking place today. A second application is scheduled for Monday, May 20, 2019 at 5:45 a.m. weather permitting.

The eradication is performed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDA) using a helicopter and should be complete within four hours from the start time.

These eradication measures are necessary in order to slow the spread of the Gypsy Moth in the United States and Illinois. The Gypsy Moth is a voracious eater and can do irreparable damage to young trees in its caterpillar stage of life. The spraying will cover over 15-hundred acres stretching from I-80 and Cherry Hill road to I-355 and north to Maple Road/Route 6.

This area to be treated for an infestation of European Gypsy Moths with Btk. Btk is a bacterial insecticide that occurs naturally, it is cultured by fermenting grains. The area will be treated mid-May, weather permitting with retreatment 7-10 days later. The Btk will be sprayed from low flying helicopters.

Residents with questions or concerns about the eradication can call the Illinois Department of Agriculture at 815-787-5481.