Gypsy Moth Caterpillars Causing Fire Concern Across New England

BOSTON (CBS) – Gypsy moth caterpillars and winter moth caterpillars are devouring hardwood leaves across New England. Because everything is so dry, they are also causing a fire concern.

"We've got a double punch going on the last couple years, winter moth has been here the last 18 years or so," said Larry Dapsis of Cape Cod Extension.

Up until last summer, a naturally occurring fungus kept the gypsy moth caterpillars away. Because it was so dry this spring, the fungus has not been around. Now huge sections of hardwood are being defoliated.

"You can take several years in a row of complete defoliation, but then after that it starts to weaken the tree," Dapsis says.

Firefighters also hate what the caterpillars are doing. A lack of shade makes fuel for brush fires drier.

"It will accelerate the dry fuel conditions which allows the fire to progress quicker," said Sandwich Dep. Chief J.J. Burke. "The more cover the better."

Experts say if trees in your yard are already defoliated, it is too late to spray them and you should just wait until next year.