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Gypsy Moth Suppression Program sign-up set

CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Department of Agriculture urges landowners to help protect West Virginia forests by signing up for the Cooperative State-County-Landowner (CSCL) Gypsy Moth Suppression Program. The sign up period runs from July 1 until Aug. 31.

“The gypsy moth is a non-native, invasive insect that feeds on hundreds of species of trees and shrubs, including West Virginia hardwoods,” stated WVDA Plant Industries Acting Director Quentin “Butch” Sayers. “Defoliation by gypsy moth caterpillars can weaken trees, making them more susceptible to other pests and diseases. This treatment program helps safeguard our forests from further damage.”

The CSCL Gypsy Moth Program will accept gypsy moth egg mass survey applications from landowners statewide starting July 1. Application forms and brochures are available at the WVDA’s Plant Industries Division website.

Landowners may also obtain applications and brochures at local WVU Extension offices and WVDA field offices in Charleston (304-558-2212) or New Creek (304-788-1066). A refundable deposit of $1 per acre must be submitted with the application. This deposit will be used toward payment for treatment if the landowner qualifies.

“West Virginia’s forests are one of our state’s most important resources. From tourism to our timber industry, our forests are an important economic driver for the Mountain State,” stressed Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt. “We hope people will take advantage of this voluntary program.”

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