The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is stepping up its measures against the invasive Spongy Moth with a new treatment program. Northern Illinois will witness a series of open houses intended to shed light on this latest initiative. The Spongy Moth, previously known as the gypsy moth, is notorious for its non-discriminatory appetite, targeting over 250 species of plants and leaving a trail of vulnerability to disease and environmental stress, as reported by the State of Illinois .

In an attempt to curb the damage, IDOA plans to apply Splat GM-Organic—a pheromone-based mating disruption product—through aerial dispersal come mid to late June, depending on the weather, as per the State of Illinois . The hope is that by lacing tree canopies with this concoction, male moths will be thwarted in their quest to locate females, thereby preventing breeding and infestation. The treatment is focused like a laser on high-risk areas from the greater Chicagoland to western Illinois.

The Spongy Moth larvae have wreaked particular havoc on Illinois regional staples such as oak, willow, and pines. Male moths are distinguishable by their chevron-marked brown wings and the females—typically white or cream-colored—are notably flightless due to the weight of their eggs, as detailed by the State of Illinois . This distinction is crucial for the pheromone treatment's success, as it targets the mobile males.

"Anyone interested in learning more about the treatment method is encouraged to attend the open house," an Illinois government press release noted. Additional information, including treatment maps and outreach resources, is available on the Slow the Spread website. Those unable to attend an open house who still wish to satisfy their curiosity or voice concerns may also contact IDOA's DeKalb Office by phone.