Invasive moths are establishing populations in various locations around B.C., so the province will be taking action in an attempt to eradicate the species.
Starting in the spring, the provincial government will be performing aerial sprays over 13 areas of B.C. to try to curb the growing population of spongy moths.
According to the Canadian Council on Invasive Species, spongy moths are native to Europe and were introduced to North America in 1869 as part of a failed silkworm breeding experiment. When the moths are feeding, they defoliate their host trees which makes the trees susceptible to attack from other insects and diseases.
The places being sprayed by the insecticide, called Foray 48b, include an area over Nanaimo’s Hammond Bay Road near Neck Point. Other communities where the insecticide will be sprayed include Qualicum Beach, Salt Spring Island, Cowichan Bay, North Saanich, Esquimalt, Gorge-Tillicum, Belmont, Tsawwassen, Langley, Kamloops, West Kelowna and Cranbrook.
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According to an announcement from the province, the 2023 eradication program was successful in all areas except the Belmont-Colwood treatment area, which missed three treatments due to weather delays.
Those with questions or concerns will get a chance to participate in virtual information sessions held by the province in February, or they can call the spongy moth 24-hour information line at 1-866-917-5999.
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bailey.seymour@nanaimobulletin.com
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