For the Tomahawk Leader

WISCONSIN – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced on Thursday, May 13 that it will be setting more than 10,000 traps for gypsy moths in 47 counties from mid-May through early June.

Nearly all of Lincoln County, except for a narrow section in the eastern portion of the county, is within the trapping area, according to a map provided by DATCP. Roughly half of Oneida and Vilas counties and all of Price County are also within the trapping area.

“DATCP requests that property owners allow trappers access to place traps, and that they not disturb the traps once in place,” DATCP stated in a release.

“The data we gather from these traps provides an estimate of the state’s gypsy moth population and is used to plan for next year’s spray treatment,” said Michael Falk, DATCP’s gypsy moth trapping coordinator. “It also helps DATCP’s nursery and Christmas tree inspectors in the fall to check trees for gypsy moth egg masses.”

Traps are small green boxes tied to tree branches. The trap contains the scent of a female gypsy moth that is undetectable to other insects and is used to attract and catch male gypsy moths.

“Trappers will monitor traps until the male moths stop flying in August, at which time the traps are removed,” DATCP stated. “Trappers wear fluorescent vests and carry identification cards. Each trap is labeled with a phone number that property owners can call if they have questions or decide they want it removed.”

For more information, visit www.datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/GMSurvey.aspx, call DATCP’s Gypsy Moth Program toll-free at (800) 642-MOTH, or email [email protected].