Iowa Department of Agriculture announces plans for program in Decorah on gypsy moth infestation

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey on Monday announced plans for a public program in Decorah May 2nd on the gypsy moth infestation in Northeast Iowa.

State Entomologist Robin Pruisner and DNR Forest Health Specialist Tivon Feeley will appear at 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 2nd at the Decorah City Hall to talk about the planned mating disruption treatment for European gypsy moth in Winneshiek and Allamakee Counties.  There are approximately 419,000 acres of forest in Allamakee and Winneshiek Counties.

Said Northey, "The mating disruption treatment that has been proposed has been proven safe and effective and I hope area residents will come to the meeting to learn more."

Gypsy moths feed on over 300 different species of trees and shrubs, with oak species favored.  Each larva can grow up to 2 inches long and can consume up to 11 square feet of foliage from early May through June.