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Forest Tent Caterpillar - Problem? #752814

Asked May 29, 2021, 8:39 AM EDT

Hello, I live in Hinesburg Vermont and am observing a massive presence of what I believe are Forest Tent Caterpillars on my property. They are all over the sides of the garage, house, and since I started looking in many of the trees. I've never noticed them on the house/garage before in the 20yrs we have lived here. Question: Is this a problem? Should anything be done to help control them? Kind Regards, Jim

Chittenden County Vermont

Expert Response

Hello Jim:  We are experiencing an outbreak of Gypsy Moths right now. I'm thinking this is probably what you are dealing with (like many other folks)! I have attached some information for you on this.  Hope this helps.  

Lisa - UVM Master Gardener Helpline

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 07, 2021, 2:24 PM EDT
Lisa & Co,

     Thanks so much for the info.  Gypsy Moths.  Exactly.

     Are there any regional efforts/discussions to treat the problem w/ Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk) or similar?  ie: Town Spraying or something like that?  I'm feeling very outnumbered on our property : )

     Best, Jim

On Mon, Jun 7, 2021 at 2:24 PM Extension Foundation <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2021, 2:52 PM EDT
Hi Jim,
I am not sure. I will ask Judy Rosovsky, VAAFM entomologist. There may be some talk about spraying in other areas of the state. It is a pretty big outbreak. I will be in touch when I hear from her.
Ann
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 07, 2021, 4:06 PM EDT
Hi,
Just heard back from Judy and VAAFM or Forest and Parks is not doing any spraying.

"FPR is not planning to do any and as far as I know neither is Ag. It’s a bit too late in their development to apply Btk. We were waiting for a wet spring to bring back the Entomophaga maimaiga and nuke the GM. Didn’t happen. Maybe next year."

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 07, 2021, 4:26 PM EDT

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