Spongy Moth in Shenandoah

Defoliation on Hawksbill and Nakedtop Summits in SNP
Defoliation on Hawksbill and Nakedtop Summits in Shenandoah National Park, 2023.

NPS Photo

Spongy moth (formerly called gypsy moth) is a destructive invasive insect that causes widespread defoliation in Shenandoah's forests. Defoliation multiple years in a row causes the trees to die, creating hazardous conditions for visitors and adversely affecting forest health. Some areas of Shenandoah have been hard-hit in the last two years, so we have joined in the US Forest Service's effort to control spongy moth populations with aerial suppression in our area. Spraying will take place in May of 2024. Learn more from our FAQs.
 

Spongy Moth Treatment FAQs

 
Map showing areas to be sprayed
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Last updated: May 11, 2024

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Shenandoah National Park
3655 U.S. Highway 211 East

Luray, VA 22835

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540 999-3500
Emergency Phone: 1-800-732-0911

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