European Gypsy Moths

April 2004

• The European Gypsy Moth has been a serious pest of forest, fruit, and shade trees in the eastern United States for about 100 years.

• Occasional local infestations have been detected in Washington State since 1974. The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has successfully eradicated each infestation.

• Communities and citizens often want to understand the health risks associated with the WSDA eradication efforts and learn more about gypsy moth control options.

• On the following pages, the Washington State Department of Health outlines information on gypsy moth and health considerations associated with gypsy moth control options.