Trees eventually die and have to be removed, but the cause should not be the gypsy moth.
Gypsy Moth Suppression
There have been a number of economic studies comparing the cost of gypsy moth suppression programs with the cost of removing or salvaging the dead trees. There are many variables but most studies show a 7:1 or better benefit to cost ratio for the gypsy moth spray intervention. And most of these studies do not put a monitary value on the aesthic value of the trees!
All gypsy moth suppression programs are designed to prevent the defoliation and loss of the primary host trees. It is very devistating to a home site to lose large mature trees that have taken decades to grow. Trees furnish shade, wind protection, increased water absorbtion, soil anchoring, nesting sites, and food for a host of desireable animals. The aesthic value of trees is also very high and add much to a livable yard. The first goal of suppression is to keep these valuable trees healthy and strong.
The second goal of the more agressive suppression programs is to reduce or eleminate the nuisance of the gypsy moth. Large numbers of caterpillars cause all kinds of stress to those who have to live under them. Even people accustom to nature don't like the continual rain of caterpillars, shreded leaves, and frass. Continous population monitoring can detect when the populations are rising to the point of becoming nuisance, and the spray can stop most of this from ever happening.
Light gypsy moth feeding, stopped in early summer by a carefully placed aerial spray of B.t.
Oak tree seven years after multiple defoliations by gypsy moth caterpillars
Aquatic Consulting Services, P.O. Box 530, Sanford, MI, 989-687-7646,
gypsymoth@aquaticremedies.com