The Minnesota Department of Agriculture and partner organizations are planning to tackle a gypsy moth infestation in Houston County this spring, according to a press release. In anticipation of the proposed treatment, the department is inviting people to learn about the effort at an open house Feb. 25.

Gypsy moths are ranked among America’s most destructive tree pests. The insect has caused millions of dollars in damage to forests as it has spread from New England to Wisconsin in recent decades. Gypsy moth caterpillars can defoliate large sections of forest. The pests are common in Wisconsin and are now establishing themselves in Minnesota, the release stated.

The MDA maintains a monitoring program to watch for start-up infestations, and when an infestation is found, the department conducts aerial treatments of the infestation before it can spread. In 2019, the MDA found an infestation west of the city of Hokah. The department is now developing a treatment plan for approximately 1,620 acres between Highway 16 and Highway 44. More information on the proposed treatment area can be found at www.mda.state.mn.us/gmtreatments.

The MDA will host an open house to share information with citizens about the threat gypsy moths pose to the environment and how officials plan to protect the area.

The open house will be from 7 to 8 p.m. Feb. 25 at Hokah Fire Department, 9 Mill St., Hokah, MN 55941.

Individuals with a disability who need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the event should contact Marissa Streifel at 651-201-6096 or through the Minnesota Relay Service at 711 as soon as possible.

Over the years, the MDA has successfully treated dozens of gypsy moth infestations across eastern Minnesota, from Grand Portage to the Twin Cities to Houston County, according to the release. The successful treatments help postpone the full-scale invasion of gypsy moth, saving local communities and homeowners money and protecting the health of the state’s urban and natural forests.

For more information on the proposed treatments, go to www.mda.state.mn.us/gmtreatments.