Neighbors say gypsy moths taking over Granger neighborhood

by John Paul (jpaul@wsbt.com)

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Gypsy moths in Farmington Square, Granger

Gypsy moth caterpillars have infested the Farmington Square neighborhood in Granger. (WSBT photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: May 27, 2009 at 5:36 PM EST

Story Updated: Jun 4, 2009 at 11:16 AM EST

GRANGER — A creepy, crawling nuisance has devoured trees in one neighborhood. The gypsy moth caterpillar is tough to control, and homeowners say the pests have multiplied and taken over their neighborhood.

"The war is on," said Paul Harbron.

On one side: gypsy moth caterpillars. On the other: homeowners like Andy Schmidt.

If you're keeping tally on this battle, take one look at Schmidt's siding outside his Granger home and you can determine the enemy is winning.

"It's a neighborhood known for its trees and scenic beauty," said Schmidt. "This really takes away from it."

Gypsy moth caterpillars dominate his property, from the windows to the walls. They're on the stairwell, even around his deck.

Schmidt says it's difficult to open the door to the deck because of the insects.

According to Schmidt, the voracious eaters have killed two of his neighbor's trees and they've set their sights on his oak and elm.

The insects have a big appetite and leave a big mess.

"After they eat, that stuff just falls down to the surface," said Schmidt. "It makes it a lot dirtier than it usually is."

Schmidt and his neighbor Paul Harbron have dealt with the infestation for several years now.

Harbron said he removed his tree to limit the problem this year.

"It actually looks like a decoration," said Harbron. "There would be so many that you could whisk away."

Officials from Indiana's Department of Natural Resources sprayed trees around Northern Indiana several years ago to control the growing population.

But that hasn't stopped this year's unwelcome delivery.

"You'll catch them in your mouth if you are not careful about it," said Harbron.

Some neighbors have a secret weapon — using tree bands and burlap sacks — but Schmidt's battle and talks of war strategy continue.

"We get together every Saturday to talk about what's working and what's not working," said Harbron.

"It's really like a horror movie — 'The Day of the Gypsy Moth Caterpillar,'" said Schmidt.

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