This program assures that populations of the gypsy moth are not introduced and allowed to develop, such that they adversely affect the rural or urban forests of Iowa. The gypsy moth is an injurious insect, that was introduced from Europe in the mid-1800's. It can defoliate and kill trees and the Iowa state tree, the oak, is its most favored host. The laboratory yearly conducts a state-wide survey program for the gypsy moth. Sites where the insect is developing populations are treated to eradicate the insect. This program is conducted in cooperation with the USDA-APHIS-PPQ; the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; and the Entomology Department of ISU. IDALS is the lead agency in this program.
