Strategies for Deterring Oak Borers

The City of Gießen has announced a broad-based initiative to combat the European Pine Sawfly (EPS), an inconspicuous moth that lays its larvae in pines and can cause damage to trees and allergic reactions in humans due to the hairs of the caterpillars.

Starting from May 10, 2023, the fight against EPS will involve multiple institutions, including the Justus Liebig University, Studentenwohnheimverband Gießen, WevaTo, Wohnbau Gießen, Vitos Klinik, and others. These entities have collaborated with local environmental and agricultural authorities to address this issue.

Over the course of the next week, approximately 2000 trees will be treated with the agent NeemProtect using the spraying method. This measure, however, is weather-dependent, and delays may occur.

The treatment will cover various areas across the city, including the Inner City, East City, Rödgen, Wieseck, North City, West City, Petersweiher/ Schiffenberg, South City, and Kleinlinden, Allenfeld, Lützellinden. Sensitive areas such as kindergartens, schools, playgrounds, sports facilities, recreational areas, park facilities, and residential areas with high pine populations will be treated preferentially, including the Anneröder settlement.

The treatment of the European Pine Sawfly does not pose a risk to citizens, but it is important to follow the instructions of the on-site staff to ensure the necessary work can be completed quickly and effectively. The city authorities assure that all precautions will be taken to minimise any inconvenience to the public.

The city's initiative against EPS is a significant step towards preserving the health of its pine trees and ensuring the safety of its citizens. The collaboration between various institutions and authorities underscores the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.