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• tourism losses <br /> • reduction in the quality of life for many residents (nuisance and allergic reaction due to <br /> numerous larvae) <br /> • aesthetic losses (unsightly tree and shrub defoliation and death) <br /> • watershed issues in some communities dependent on trees to hold soil and water <br /> • increased costs to residents for pesticides and/or tree removal and replacement <br /> • fire danger could increase if dead trees not promptly removed <br /> • environmental losses (negative impact of out-of-season tree defoliation on wildlife, fish <br /> habitat, native species of moths and caterpillars, tree community composition) <br /> Oregon and many other uninfested states survey annually for this pest and eradicate it <br /> primarily using Btk wherever infestations have been transported, usually on outdoor <br /> household articles and recreational vehicles. Aerial applications of Btk sprays have occurred <br /> in large and small Oregon communities and rural and forestedareas from 1 ortland to <br /> Ashland since 1984. In 1984, the largest gypsy moth infestation ever detected in the western <br /> U.S., was found in Lane County. Following a series of large scale spray projects starting <br /> with treating 225,000 acres in 1985 three times with Btk, this infestation was eradicated. <br /> Through extensive annual trapping and early and effective eradication programs targeting <br /> relatively small areas, we hope to avoid that scenario ever again. In all the many health <br /> studies conducted to date, no known cases of an illness caused by similar Btk spray programs <br /> have been identified. <br /> An environmental assessment of the proposed gypsy moth eradication program in Eugene is <br /> currently being conducted. We look forward to continuing to provide information to you and <br /> to citizens and other interested persons. We plan a public information meeting in late <br /> January or early February. We are also available to meet with local school and neighborhood <br /> groups. <br /> Thank you for any help you can provide in facilitating our request that the City of Eugene <br /> authorize low-altitude helicopter flights associated with this gypsy moth eradication program, <br /> <br /> pending a decision by the Director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture to proceed. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> Kathleen J. R. Johnson <br /> Supervisor, Insect Pest Prevention and Management Programs <br /> 503-986-4662 <br /> <br />