Spongy Moth Control Plan for Coon Rapids

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), in partnership with federal agencies, has identified an area in Coon Rapids that requires action to control the spread of the invasive spongy moth. This moth, which threatens the local economy, environment, and human health, has caused significant damage across the U.S., defoliating millions of acres of trees.

Spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) is an invasive pest that can cause extensive damage to forests and landscapes. The caterpillars of this moth feed on over 300 types of trees, including some of the most common in Minnesota. The damage it causes has led to billions of dollars in losses and the destruction of valuable forest ecosystems.

The MDA has proposed using Btk, an organic insecticide, to control the spongy moth population in Coon Rapids. The product will be applied using low-flying aircraft over the tree canopies. These applications will be carried out in the early mornings, with the plane flying for about an hour. Btk is a commonly used pest control agent in agriculture and has been found to be safe for humans, animals, and beneficial insects, including bees. It is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in the U.S.

The proposed management is planned for May 2025. However, the exact timing will depend on weather conditions and the development of the insect population. Btk will be applied twice, with a 7-14 day interval between treatments. Each application is expected to take about an hour.

The MDA has identified 236 acres in Coon Rapids for treatment, located west of University Avenue and north of Northdale Boulevard. An interactive map detailing the proposed areas for management is available on the MDA website.

For those seeking more information, MDA will host an open house meeting on Wednesday, March 19, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Sand Creek Park, 1008 Northdale Blvd. Additional details are available on the MDA website at www.mda.state.mn.us/smmanagement.

Photo Credit: minnesota-department-of-agriculture