Yacolt — State officials have proposed a plan to eradicate an infestation of European gypsy moths this spring near Yacolt, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
State trappers found 16 gypsy moths in the Yacolt area — more than any other place in Washington — in statewide trapping efforts earlier this year. Officials also found further evidence of the moths: an egg mass capable of producing as many as 1,000 gypsy moth caterpillars.
The gypsy moth is a destructive pest that can damage urban trees and forests, according to the agriculture department. It is not native to the state.
The state has proposed three aerial applications of pesticide over a 220-acre area near Yacolt. A community meeting on the issue is being planned for February, officials said. If approved, the operation would take place in April or May.
