FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, March 15, 2006

WINTER MOTH BLAMED FOR DEFOLIATION OF TREES 

MELROSE, MA, MARCH 15 – The Winter Moth (Operophtera brumata (L.)) is an insect pest that causes defoliation to a variety of deciduous plants and trees. When the population of this species reaches outbreak status, which it has in parts of eastern Massachusetts , it can cause mass defoliation particularly in areas densely populated by one type of tree species. The ramifications of defoliation vary based on the individual trees health or level of defoliation, partial or complete. Defoliation, especially consecutive, can be fatal. For more information, please view:

MA D.C.R. Pest Alert & Winter Moth Fact Sheet

MA Bureau of Forestry Notes P.R., Dec. 2, 2005 : Rise of the Winter Moth

The Winter Moth was identified in the City of Melrose in May of 2005. The pest caused widespread partial defoliation throughout the City and several cases of complete defoliation were reported. At the time of this press release, the Winter Moth has not reached outbreak status in the City of Melrose .

The City of Melrose is working closely with the D.C.R. and the surrounding communities to monitor this problem. To help the City track the presence of this pest, residents are urged to report defoliation to the Department of Public Work by calling (781) 979-4170. Please note the City does not plan on completing any chemical applications or spraying at this time.

SOURCES:

www.umassgreeninfo.org

http://www.mass.gov/dcr/

UMASS Extension, Winter Moth Overview, March 2003, Revised April 2004

UMASS Extension, Biological Control of Winter Moth in MA , March 2005

Charles M. Burnham, Program Supervisor, Forest Health Program, MA D.C.R.