PIKE COUNTY, PA — The Pike County Spongy Moth Cost-Share program has expanded its guidelines to include the use of drone spraying. Now, residents conducting aerial application of at least 25 contiguous acres using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), via any aerial application method, may be eligible to receive partial reimbursement of treatment costs.

The Spongy Moth Cost-Share Program is intended to provide residents with the means to suppress spongy moth caterpillar populations and minimize defoliation and the secondary impacts of these invasive pests on their property. Those who meet the program criteria may be eligible for reimbursement of up to 25% of the total cost, up to $10,000.

Reimbursement is provided through a $400,000 Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) grant awarded to the County with the help of the Pike County Commissioners, Rep. Jeff Olsommer (R-Pike/Wayne) and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20). The sole purpose of the funds is to suppress spongy moth populations in Pike County. Out of the initial award, approximately $228,000 remain available.

“Initially, reimbursement was limited to those conducting aerial application via fixed-wing rotary. The updated guidelines increase the program’s accessibility and will maximize the impact of the grant funds by ensuring a greater number of residents can benefit from this initiative,” said Pike County Commissioner Christa Caceres.

Updated program guidelines are as follows:

Approved participants are eligible for reimbursement of up to 25% of the total cost, or a reimbursement cap of $10,000.

Categories are as follows:

• Category A: Homeowners Associations/Private Landowners spraying between 25 and 299 acres
• Category B: Homeowners Associations/Private Landowners spraying 300+ acres
• Category C: Hunt Clubs spraying 25+ acres
• Category D: Businesses/Municipalities/Organizations/Other spraying 25+ acres

To be partially reimbursed, applicants must:

• Submit an application (along with supporting documentation including proof of contract from an aerial sprayer licensed to work in Pennsylvania, map of the spray block, etc.)
• Be a minimum treatment area of 25 contiguous acres
• Treat ONLY with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)

Approved applicants will not receive reimbursement until spraying is complete and supporting documentation is submitted.

Time is running out to contract with an aerial applicator. Please visit www.pikepa.org/spongymoth for additional information on the program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

Pike County Spongy Moth Task Force

The Pike County Spongy Moth Task Force meets monthly to strategize, educate, and provide resources regarding this invasive species. For more information, please contact Jessica Yoder, Spongy Moth Task Force Co-Chair at 570-296-3500 x1382. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 16th at 2:00 pm in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room of the Pike County Administration Building, located at 506 Broad Street in Milford.

Join the Task Force on May 8^th at 6:00 pm at Back Road Brewing for a Science on Tap presentation, “Managing the Moth Mayhem.” Jessica Yoder, Spongy Moth Task Force Co-Chair will cover key topics on managing spongy moth, including identifying at-risk areas, land management strategies, and innovative tools to combat these pests.

Science on Tap is a free educational event organized by the Pike/Wayne Conservation Partnership, held every other month at local breweries/restaurants. All are welcome to purchase food and drinks from the venue individually. Photos taken at the event may be used by Pike County and/or the venue on social media and other publications. No RSVP is necessary. We hope to see you there!