There is currently a spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) infestation in Madison, which was especially severe in the south and west parts of the city during summer of 2023. This is partly due to recent drought in the region that has both weakened our trees and suppressed the fungal pathogen that normally keeps spongy moth numbers down. Foresters and entomologists expect more spongy moths in 2024. Learn more about moth infestations on the DNR website at: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/foresthealth/spongymoth.
Spongy moth can cause significant damage to the urban tree canopy. Our Forestry staff needs your help to combat the spongy moth here in Shorewood Hills!
- At your home, follow the WI-DNR instructions to remove egg masses and caterpillars from your trees, house and outdoor structures like picnic tables. The instructions vary for different months of the year, according to the moth life cycle. Now is a good time to start removing egg masses!
- Report egg masses and caterpillars to the Capitol Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) database. This helps all the foresters in Dane County to plan and utilize available resources to fight the moth (including our Forester)! There are desktop and mobile versions of the reporting tool.
- Volunteer to help the Forester get rid of spongy moths on Village trees in our parks and terraces! Contact Adam Lohrmann ([email protected]).
We prize our trees in the Village. Unfortunately, so does the spongy moth. Please help the Village to win this round!
