Online gypsy moth informational meetings set for May 5

Gypsy moths are ranked among America’s most destructive tree pests.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is hosting two virtual meetings on May 5 to share information with residents about gypsy moth treatments proposed for Northeast Minnesota. The MDA monitors for gypsy moth each year, watching for start-up infestations. When an infestation is found, the department conducts aerial treatments using an organic insecticide and targets the infestation before it can spread. Three treatment areas cover parts of Carlton (near Esko), Lake, and St. Louis counties.

The MDA will host two virtual meetings —10:30-11:30 a.m. or 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 5 — to share information with citizens about the threat gypsy moths pose to the environment and how officials plan to protect the urban and natural forests. Attend the meeting by going to http://www.mda.state.mn.us/gmtreatments.