PUBLIC NOTICE ATTENTION: PROPERTY OWNERS OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Crawford County is cooperating with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources-Bureau of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service in a joint effort to spray gypsy moth caterpillars this spring in certain residential and public high-use areas within the county. The areas scheduled for treatment are located in Titusville, Hydetown, Pleasantville, Oil Cree Township Troy Township and Steuben Township. These treatment areas were selected on the basis of surveys and resident requests received last summerno additional areas can be added at this time. A biological insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Bt), which only affects leaf-eating caterpillars, will be used. However, Bt may not kill all of the gypsy moth caterpillars. In severe infestations the percentage of surviving caterpillars may still be sufficient to cause some defoliation and also be a nuisance to the homeowner. Because of this and the variability in control caused by the weather, the results cannot be guaranteed. The spraying is scheduled to occur sometime from late April to late May depending upon caterpillar and leaf development. Local news media will carry information on more specific dates. Spraying will be done by aircraft starting daily at daybreak and continuing as long as wind and other conditions are acceptable. Evening, weekend, and holiday spraying will also be conducted when conditions permit. Normally, only one treatment will be applied to any particular property. Bt has not been shown to be harmful to humans, pets, livestock, or gardens. However, it is recommended that you observe normal precautions and remain under cover during spraying. If exposed to the spray, wash with soap and water. Program standards provide for the treatment of a forested buffer extending no farther than 500 feet from the residence(s) being protected. Open fields, open areas containing only a few scattered trees, and narrow fence rows will not be treated. Detailed maps of the treatment areas are available for your review at Woodcock Creek Nature Center, 21742 German Road, Meadville, PA 16335 (814) 763-5269 during the hours of 8 AM to 4 PM Monday through Friday. Landowners within approved spray blocks were individually notified in February. Any additional questions regarding the gypsy moth, the insecticide, or this program can be directed to: James Babcock, County Gypsy Moth Spray Program Coordinator Woodcock Creek Nature Center, 21742 German Road, Meadville, PA 16335 (814) 763-5269. 04/05/14
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