The project is for aerial application by helicopter of Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk), a biological pesticide, to control Spongy Moth (formerly Gypsy Moth) at select New York State Parks in the lower Hudson River Valley. The project will occur in multiple parks spanning a six-county area (Rockland, Orange, Ulster, Dutchess, Putnam, and Westchester Counties). The total acreage treated across all parks will not exceed 3,500 acres. Spongy Moth is a non-native insect that defoliates several species of trees, including oak. Defoliation can result in the decline and/or death of the trees. In 2021, over 720,000 acres of forest were defoliated in New York. New York State Park lands in the lower Hudson River Valley have experienced widespread defoliation, with some areas heavily impacted in consecutive years. Past defoliation has contributed to large numbers of dead and declining trees presenting a safety risk to patrons and park infrastructure. Wildfire fuel loads, mainly in the form of standing dead and toppled oaks, have also increased significantly. Associated canopy loss has facilitated the expansion of opportunistic invasive plants into high value natural areas. Mature tree loss has also negatively impacted the park visitor experience, from disruptive ongoing tree removal activities to the loss of shade along trails and in picnic areas. The loss of stately, 100-year-old oaks has also negatively impacted park aesthetics. Targeted, preventative action is needed to support tree health if we are to conserve existing Park forests and shade trees and maintain safe conditions.
