The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), in partnership with the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF), will conduct targeted aerial spraying this spring to manage spongy moth caterpillar populations at Shenandoah River and Seven Bends State Parks.
Formerly known as the European gypsy moth, the spongy moth is an invasive species that poses a serious threat to Virginia’s hardwood forests, particularly oak trees.
Left untreated, the caterpillars can cause severe defoliation, weakening trees and leaving them vulnerable to disease and death.
To combat the spread of spongy moths, crews will treat 1,352 acres across the two State Parks using a low-flying helicopter to apply Bacillus Thuringiensis Kurstaki (BTK).
BTK is a naturally occurring soil bacterium that targets caterpillars while remaining safe for humans, pets, wildlife, plants, and pollinators.
BTK doesn’t harm painted surfaces and washes off easily with soap and water.
Both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have approved its use for spongy moth control.
Weather permitting, the treatment will take place between April 24 and May 2, 2025.
Once the spray date is confirmed, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will share updates through park signage, entrance handouts, websites, and social media.
Both parks will stay open during spraying, although some trails may close temporarily for safety.
Visitors should check the parks’ websites or call ahead for the latest trail information.
Overnight facilities are not located within the treatment zones and will remain fully operational.
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