County ponders aerial attack on gypsy moths next year

WELLINGTON COUNTY – County council is considering a pre-emptive strike against gypsy moths in 2022.

A notice of motion presented at the May 27 meeting by Erin Mayor Allan Alls calls for staff to investigate “the safety, practicality and costs” of aerial spray prior to the annual infestation of the pest next year.

The motion calls for staff to report back prior to approval of next year’s budget.

The motion notes that “certain areas of Wellington County have been plagued by the gypsy moth,” and “this infestation has crossed municipal boundaries.”

In the caterpillar stage gypsy moths feast on leaves, which can lead to defoliated or dead trees.

Warden Kelly Linton said the motion would be discussed at the June council meeting.

Reporter