Surrey-Delta residents are reminded that the second aerial spray targeting gypsy moth is scheduled to begin Monday, April 27 and end Thursday, April 30 - between 5:20 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. - weather permitting.

People who wish to minimize their exposure should remain indoors with their windows and doors closed during the spraying and for at least 30 minutes after.When the four-morning spray has been completed, a third round of spraying is tentatively scheduled to begin May 11, 2015.

People who wish to stay up-to-date on spray activities are encouraged to sign-up for e-mail alerts: http://lists.gov.bc.ca/mailman/listinfo/l_for_gypsymoth or follow #Gypsymoth on Twitter. Up-to-date schedule information is available 24-hours a day through the gypsy moth information line, 1 866 917-5999 and: www.gov.bc.ca/gypsymoth

The treatment involves a Btk product - Foray 48B. Btk is approved for use by Health Canada and can be applied to certified organic farms without the farm losing its certification. The active ingredient occurs naturally in urban, agricultural and forest soil throughout the province. It is effective only in a caterpillar’s stomach, and is specific to their digestive system.

The areas: 4,576 hectares around 64 Ave. and 176 St. in Surrey and 204 hectares between Highways 10, 99 and 91 in Delta will be sprayed with Foray 48B to eradicate the introduced moth. Residents immediately next to the treatment areas may hear the low-flying helicopter as it turns around and realigns.

Mammals - humans, livestock and pets - birds, fish, amphibians, spiders and bees are not impacted by Btk. The product is biodegradable and breaks down within seven days due to exposure to sunlight.

Poor weather or wind may cause treatments to be postponed with little advance notice. Postponed treatments will be rescheduled for the next suitable morning.

Residents can contact HealthLink, available 24-hours a day by dialling 811, for information to help address any health concerns they have regarding the treatment. Residents can also view current health fact sheets at: http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthfiles/hfile90a.stm

Media Contacts:

Greig Bethel
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261