Olsommer, Baker Announce State Grant to Help Address Spongy Moth Infestation in Pike County

November 15, 2024

HARRISBURG – Rep. Jeff Olsommer (R-Pike/Wayne) and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) today announced a $400,000 state grant has been awarded to help address the severe spongy moth infestation in Pike County. The two lawmakers worked with county officials to obtain the funding through the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).

The spongy moth, formerly known as the gypsy moth, has caused significant tree mortality and defoliation statewide. Pike County reported a high presence of spongy moth this year, with mapping by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) indicating the serious threat posed by the pest locally will continue for several more years.

“This is a major issue for Pike County and its residents, businesses and developments,” said Olsommer. “At the urging of the Pike County commissioners, and in collaboration with Sen. Baker, I am thrilled to be able to offer the county some relief. I worked very hard alongside the senator to secure this funding to help our constituents.”

“Ever since Gov. Gifford Pinchot helped to establish the United States Forest Service, Pike County has been dedicated to the sustainable management of its abundant natural resources. This history of stewardship has made the area a preferred recreation and ecotourism destination. Combating this destructive pest will ensure forest health and continued enjoyment of this pristine natural environment,” Baker said.

“With the level of defoliation experienced this past year, the county is grateful to be awarded funding through the DCED Economic Development Initiatives Program,” said Christa Caceres, Pike County commissioner and Spongy Moth Task Force co-chair. “The grant is intended to help offer a cost-share program for landowners seeking aerial application to suppress the spongy moth.”

Although DCNR does treat portions of state lands, there are currently no state cost-share or local residential spraying programs, leaving landowners on their own when it comes to taking care of a spongy moth outbreak.

Defoliation caused by spongy moth has the potential to put a strain on the local outdoor recreational economy, impacting area businesses supporting that tourism base, as well as negatively affecting the logging industry.

Representative Jeff Olsommer
139th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Melissa Fox
717.260.6522
mefox@pahousegop.com
RepOlsommer.com / Facebook.com/RepOlsommer