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Two insect species the size of a dime are chewing up pine needles and causing considerable damage in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. The Tussock Moth and Western Spruce Bud Worm are native to the region. Rarely do they attack at the same time, but this summer thousands of city trees in North Cheyenne Cañon, Bear Creek Canyon Park and Blodgett Peak were defoliated. The trees can withstand one year, but not two. If it occurs again next summer, the trees could die.
City Forestry is taking steps to stop the infestation. The initial plan is to spray Bt, a biological treatment found naturally in soil that targets the moths without affecting people, wildlife or pollinators. Aerial spraying of 2,000 acres would take place early next June after a public meeting/open house and spring survey of the moth population. Cost=$150,000. The parks would be closed while spraying occurs. More information to follow.
[/spb_text_block] [blank_spacer height=”30px” width=”1/6″ el_position=”first”] [spb_single_image image=”2412″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” intro_animation=”none” full_width=”no” lightbox=”yes” link_target=”_self” width=”1/4″] [spb_single_image image=”2413″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” intro_animation=”none” full_width=”no” lightbox=”yes” link_target=”_self” caption=”Tussock moth and caterpillar.” width=”1/2″ el_position=”last”]