Lehigh County is cooperating with the Pa. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service in a joint effort to spray gypsy moth caterpillars in certain public high use areas within the county.

Areas include Leaser Lake in Lynn Township and Trexler Game Preserve.

Treatment areas were selected on the basis of surveys and resident requests received last summer.

A biological insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Bt), which only affects leaf-eating caterpillars, will be used.

However, (Bt) may not kill all of the gypsy moth caterpillars.

Because of variability in control caused by the weather, the results cannot be guaranteed.

Spraying is scheduled to occur in late April to early June depending upon caterpillar and leaf development.

Spraying will be done by aircraft starting daily at daybreak and continue as long as wind and other conditions are acceptable.

Evening, weekend and holiday spraying will also be conducted when conditions permit.

Normally, only one treatment will be applied to any particular property. (Bt) has not been shown to be harmful to humans, pets, livestock or gardens.

However, it is recommended residents observe normal precautions and remain under cover during the spray. If exposed to the spray, wash with soap and water.

Landowners within approved spray blocks were notified in December 2016 and January and February.

Questions regarding the gypsy moth, the insecticide, or this program may be directed to Jeffrey Carroll at Penn State Cooperative Extension, 4184 Dorney Park Road, South Whitehall or by phone at 610-391-9840.