DATCP setting 8,000 spongy moth traps

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) will be setting approximately 8,000 traps for spongy moth. The traps will be placed in 36 counties in western and central Wisconsin from mid-May through early July. Trap locations are determined according to a grid- and data-based system. Most traps will be set along public roadsi.de rights-of-way, but some will require placement on private property in areas where new infestations are suspected. DATCP requests that all traps remain undisturbed once they are in place. Spongy moth traps are small green boxes stapled or tied to trees. The trap emits the scent of flightless female spongy moths to attract and catch adult male spongy moths. The primary purpose is to gather data to inform follow up control efforts and does not have direct, meaningful impacts on the population of this invasive species. Trapping staff will monitor traps until male moths stop flying – usually around Labor Day – at which time the traps will be removed.