Town of Oakville taking action to control LDD moth infestation

In mid-May or early June, 2022, the town will be conducting an aerial spray in 33 town woodlands with a safe and naturally occurring insecticide to control the LDD moth infestation. Based on population surveys conducted in 2021, Oakville faces extreme levels of LDD moth infestation this year that could affect 358 hectares (885 acres) of town woodlands and result in a significant loss of trees if no action is taken.

Aerial spray dates are highly dependent on weather conditions and may need to be postponed with little notice. Once dates are confirmed, they will be posted on the town’s website, Facebook and Twitter accounts. Residents who live in the near vicinity of any of the town woodlands that will be treated can sign up to receive 48-hour email notification of the spray on the LDD Moth page. 

Municipalities have successfully conducted aerial spray programs using the naturally occurring insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki (Btk) for decades. It has replaced chemical insecticides in aerial spraying programs worldwide.

“Protecting and preserving our tree canopy for future generations is one of Council’s top priorities. This year’s efforts will help protect our urban forest from these damaging invasive insects before they cause irreparable damage.”