Residents in Ross, Hamilton and Eldred townships will be able to take advantage of having properties sprayed for gypsy moths this year.

Supervisors in all three townships have agreed to assist residents in providing a gypsy moth spray program.In order to take advantage of the program each parcel must be at least 25 contiguous acres. It was suggested that those with smaller properties contact their neighbors to assemble the necessary acreage.The cost will be $40 per acre and requires half down and half paid at the conclusion of the spraying.Gypsy moths generally migrate daily from the leaves and down the branches and trunk to rest in shaded spots on the tree or objects on the ground, according to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.Young caterpillarsfeed around the clock, but older stages of the caterpillars feed only at night to avoid drying out in the sun or being eaten by predators.One generation of gypsy moth occurs per year and includes egg, caterpillar, pupa and adult stages. Female moths lay egg masses on tree boles, branches, vehicles, houses and other structures.Theyhatch from mid-April to mid-Maywhen temperatures are above 60 degrees.Adult gypsy moths emerge about two weeks after pupating.Adults only live about a week and do not feed. Female gypsy moths use chemicals to attract a mate soon after they emerge. They lay eggs about a day after mating.Oak, apple, sweet gum, basswood, birch, aspen and willow trees are affected the most by the gypsy moth, but older larvae also will feed on hemlock, pines, spruces, northern white cedar and other conifers.A tree begins to suffer when 30 percent or more of its leaf surface is lost.Residents interested in taking advantage of the program will need to contact their township supervisors office before May 1. Be prepared to provide the tax parcel numbers of the properties when calling.