The Ministry of Forests (FOR) has planned an aerial spray program to eradicate an establishing spongy moth (formerly referred to as gypsy moth) population in Qualicum Beach.

The aerial spray program is planned for the spring of 2024 and will cover a 96-hectare parcel.

There are three proposed applications: the first treatments will occur in late April or May 2024 (weather dependent) and then two more treatments will occur at seven to ten day intervals.

Spray operations will be completed by either 7:30 am or 8:00 am for each spray day (three spray days in total). There are strict weather restrictions in the Pesticide Use Permit which prohibit spraying during windy conditions (maximum wind speed of 8 km/hour) to avoid spray drifting outside the permitted area. Spraying will be completed by 7:30 am over areas that include schools or daycares.

Further information regarding the planned 2024 spongy moth spray eradication program and studies relating to the impact on non-target moths and human health are also available on the FOR website (http://www.gov.bc.ca/spongymoth).

Read more at https://qualicumbeach.civicweb.net/document/10274