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January 12, 2024 - 2:42 PM
Aerial spraying for a problematic invasive moth is starting in several Interior and coastal communities this spring, and Kamloops and West Kelowna are on that list.
Formerly known as gypsy moths, invasive spongy moths feed on tree leaves, posing a risk to BC’s ecosystems and economy, according to release by the Ministry of Forests issued today, Jan. 12.
The moths have defoliated sections of forests and residential areas in Ontario and the eastern United States and there is a risk they will spread to other areas of BC if left untreated.
The ministry is spraying 80 hectares in Kamloops and 52 ha in West Kelowna under the direction of the BC Plant Protection Advisory Council’s Moth Technical Advisory Committee.
The treatment uses a biological insecticide called Foray 48B that is already in use on organic farms. The active ingredient bacillus thuringiensis var kurstaki is naturally present in urban, agricultural and forest soils throughout the province, the ministry said.
“It only affects the stomachs of moth and butterfly caterpillars, and is specific to their digestive systems. The treatment has been approved for the control of spongy moth larvae in Canada since 1961,” the release read.
Areas of Cranbrook, Langley and Tsawwassen will also be treated.
Go here for information about the pesticide-use permit application or to see a map of planned treatment areas.
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