3-15-2025 8:59pm

Spongy Moth Discovered In Coon Rapids

Tom Akaolisa Editor

Spongy Moth Discovered In Coon Rapids

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), in collaboration with federal partners, has identified an area in the City of Coon Rapids that needs to be managed to slow the spread of spongy moth in Minnesota.

Spongy Moth Open House

Wednesday, March 19

4:30-6:30 p.m.
Sand Creek Park, 1008 Northdale Blvd.
hosted by MDA

What is spongy moth?

Spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) is an invasive insect that is a significant threat to the economy, environment, and human health. Spongy moth has caused billions of dollars in property damage and defoliated millions of acres of forest. Spongy moth caterpillars can feed on over 300 tree species, including some of Minnesota’s most common trees.

How is spongy moth being proposed to be managed in the City of Coon Rapids?

The proposal is to use the organic insecticide Btk, applying the product via low flying aircraft to the tree canopies. Applications generally happen early in the mornings, with a plane often flying in the area for less than an hour.

Btk kills spongy moth caterpillars. It is used widely in agriculture as one of the most frequently used pest control tools in the world. It is most often used on food crops. Btk has a proven safety record with people, pets, birds, fish, livestock, and other insects such as bees; and has been registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in the U.S.

When would the proposed management activity happen?

Management will likely occur in May 2025. However, timing for spongy moth management is dependent on weather and insect development. Btk is applied twice 7-14 days apart. Each application will be done in about an hour.

What area of the city is being proposed for management?

The MDA is proposing to manage spongy moth on 236 acres located west of University Avenue and north of Northdale Boulevard. An interactive map of proposed spongy moth management activities is available on the MDA website.