Gypsy Moth Survey

During the months of June, July, and August of 1998, this internship was completed through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Agronomy and Plant Protection Division. The three months were spent conducting a Gypsy Moth trapping survey in an assigned region that included the counties of Jackson, Martin, Watonwan, the western 1/5 of Blue Earth, and the southern 1/4 of Cottonwood. The purpose of the survey was to track the migration of the Gypsy Moth, enabling the Department of Agriculture to determine what measures, if any, were needed to keep the population under control. Trappers canvassed their assigned area, setting over 500 pheromone traps on trees, such as oak, willow, basswood, and apple. After a period of time the trappers rechecked the traps for possible suspects. Trappers were expected to posses both good oral and written communication skills, be able to deal well with the public, have the ability to work in outdoor conditions, and be able to decipher maps. The record keeping was also the responsibility of the trapper. The data collected is being analyzed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture