SOUTH BRUNSWICK: Township to spray for gypsy moths

by Davy James, Staff Writer
   South Brunswick residents may hear the noise from a low-flying airplane over the next month, but it won’t be Air Force One on a photo op.
   The township has entered into a cooperative gypsy moth control program with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, which will use an airplane to apply a nontoxic chemical on areas infested with larvae.
   The application will begin on or after May 1 and continue through June 1 or until completion. The operations will be conducted Monday through Friday from 5:30 to 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Weekends, the operation may be conducted from 5:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and possibly in the evenings from 5 to 8 in the affected areas.
   Close to 98 acres will be treated adjacent to Route 1 and Independence Way, according to township Public Affairs Coordinator Ron Schmalz.
   ”What happens is the moths travel with the wind,” Mr. Schmalz said. “Last year, we sprayed the East Brunswick and Monroe border so this year we’ll be hitting the southern border.”
   The program will cost around $4,600, which will be reimbursed from the state Department of Agriculture.
   A map indicating the exact areas to be treated is available for inspection at the municipal building. Residents may contact the public affairs office at 732-329-4000, ext. 7275, for information regarding the exact date, application times and other information on the program.
   Individuals who want additional information about pesticides can contact the National Pesticide Information Center at 800-858-7378. For pesticide regulation information, pesticide complaints and health referrals, call the New Jersey Pesticide Control Program at 609-984-6507. Additional information is available at www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/pi/prog/gypsymoth.html.