Spongy moth spraying taking place June and July

Spraying for spongy moths begins in seven Wisconsin counties this month. Part of the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection’s (DATCP) “Slow The Spread” program, residents can expect to hear low-flying planes spraying for the invasive species as early as sunrise. Spraying operations will occur in Grant and Lafayette counties over June and July. The planes spray a “mating disruptor” pheromone on treetops that makes it harder for male spongy moths to find females, leading to a reduction in reproduction. The treatments are not harmful to humans, pets or pollinators.