Parks commission spraying for gypsy moth

In the coming weeks, those who enjoy an early morning walk or bike ride along the Niagara River Parkway may see a low-flying helicopter overhead spraying the Paradise Grove tree canopy.

The Niagara Parks Commission will be spraying for gypsy moths, a non-native invasive insect species that has spread into central Niagara, including patches in Niagara-on-the-Lake and along the Lake Erie shoreline.

A notice from the parks commission says the spraying, which will also be conducted in the upper Whirlpool Woods in Niagara Falls — the area around the Whirlpool Golf Course — could begin May 19, weather permitting.

These two locations were identified by Niagara Parks environment team as having the highest egg mass density of gypsy moths.

The same biological insecticide that was used in the 2008 spraying program will be used for the 2019 application, which is made of naturally occurring soil bacteria that targets only spring caterpillars and does not harm other insects, mammals or birds, the release from the parks commission says.

Two aerial spray applications will be required. The first application is tentatively scheduled for May 19 to 22 and the second May 26 to June 2, between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m.

Niagara Parks will be hosting a public information centre regarding the spraying Thursday, May 9, at Legends on the Niagara, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. 

Residents interested in attending can register at Niagara Parks Guest Services, [email protected] or 1-877-642-7275.

Cutline: The Niagara Parks Commission will be spraying for gypsy moths, a non-native invasive insect species that has spread into central Niagara. (Photos supplied)