Aerial gypsy moth spraying to begin Thursday

MADISON (AP) -- Aerial gypsy moth spraying done by low-flying, loud planes is planned to begin Thursday, April 26th across southern Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection says spraying of a non-toxic, organic insecticide will continue until Monday if necessary. Poor weather conditions may delay the spraying.

Sites for the spraying include Grant, Green, Iowa, Lafayette and Vernon counties.

The department says the spraying is needed to control the spread of the destructive and invasive pest that feeds on the leaves of oaks, maples, crabapple, birch and many other trees and shrubs.

Spraying can start as early as sunrise and continue as long as weather permits. Spraying requires calm winds, high humidity and no precipitation.

Updates are available by calling 1-800-642-6684 and pressing 1.