Rochester Hills has been monitoring the gypsy moth population within the city since 1983.  We conducted an annual aerial spray of Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.) to reduce gypsy moth from 1994-2001 and in 2004.  Due to the relatively low population of gypsy moth in most areas of the city, Rochester Hills did not conduct an aerial spray from 2005-2010. 

Forestry Division observations again indicate that the gypsy moth population is at a relatively low level throughout most of the city; therefore, there will not be an aerial spray in 2011.  There are, however, some specific neighborhoods that do have a significant population.  Forestry staff is available to advise these property owners regarding homeowner tactics that can reduce the population.  There is also evidence, and our experience is, that there are natural controls (diseases, parasites, predators, etc.) that will have a substantial impact on the gypsy moth population when conditions are right. 

Even without an aerial spray in 2011, it is unlikely we will experience severe defoliation or mortality of oak trees due to gypsy moth, although we may experience an increase in the amount of nuisance created by the caterpillars.  Citizen involvement is an important component of our suppression program.  With the right information, our citizens can reduce the gypsy moth population. 

Forestry staff will continue to monitor the gypsy moth population and provide educational information to citizens.  Our educational efforts will focus on placing burlap hiding squares to attract larger gypsy moth caterpillars, and the proper methods of destroying them.