1998 ODA begins setting thousands of traps statewide to detect plant pests On the lookout for nasty insects June 3, 1998. . . It is all part of an annual effort to protect the state from unwanted plant-eating insects. For instance, we have a very extensive gypsy moth trapping program throughout the state. Because of that, we can often pick up infestations of gypsy moth the very first year they become established.
Early detection makes for smaller, more defined eradication efforts.
ODA technicians started putting up the traps in mid-May. The traps will continue going up through June and well into July. Special traps are being set for Japanese beetle and fruit moths. But it is the gypsy moth that continues to gain most of the attention. About 18,000 gypsy moth traps will be used this year to detect any new problems.