Trapping data collected by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) indicates that the gypsy moth, an invasive insect from Europe that feeds on the leaves of more than 300 tree species, is now established in Eau Claire and Richland counties. As a result, both counties have been placed under state and federal gypsy moth quarantine, joining most of eastern and central Wisconsin already considered to be infested with the pest.
This is the first time since 2015 new counties have been added to the quarantine, and 52 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties are now quarantined for gypsy moth. The quarantine has the greatest impact on plant nurseries, Christmas tree growers and lumber mills, because of movement restrictions and inspection requirements. Logs and nursery stock must be certified free of gypsy moth before they can be transported into non-quarantined counties or states.
People living in a quarantine county must be careful when moving outdoor items. Because gypsy moths can lay eggs on nearly anything kept outside, there is a risk of moving gypsy moths when transporting patio furniture, campers, boat trailers or firewood. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.
