Defending against caterpillars

PIKE COUNTY, PA — Pike County Conservation District is now accepting applications from residents and communities who would like to be considered for gypsy moth spraying for 2007. This is a state program, run by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) with cooperation from Pike County. Any person who would like to be evaluated for possible inclusion in this program must submit an application to the District office no later than August 5.

The 2007 Gypsy Moth Program guidelines have been modified to require a 25-acre minimum spray block size. We are strongly encouraging residents to speak with your neighbors about submitting applications to ensure that this spray block size is met.

Individual applications must be submitted with a $10 non-refundable application fee. Community applications must be submitted with a $50 non-refundable application fee. These fees are payable to the County of Pike.

Please note that submitting an application and fee only allows your pro-perty to be evaluated for the program. It does not guarantee that the property will be included in the program. Owners of properties that qualify will be notified and billed at a later date.

WAYNE COUNTY, PA — There will be informational meetings on pest caterpillars, including tent caterpillars and gypsy moths, at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 26 at the Damascus Elementary School and at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 27 at Hamlin Elementary School.

For more information call 570/251-7241 or 570/253-0930.