Strategies for Deterring Oak Spider Mites

The City of Gießen, along with several institutions, will commence preventive measures against the pine processionary caterpillar (EPP) from May 10, 2023. This city-wide initiative aims to protect the city's trees and citizens from the potential harm caused by these caterpillars.

The operation will last until the end of next week and will involve treating approximately 2,000 trees with the agent NeemProtect using a spraying method. The route for the spraying operation includes various areas such as the Inner city, East city, Rödgen, Weiskirchen, North city, West city, Petersweiher/ Schiffenberg, South city, Kleinlinden, Allenbach, Lützellinden, and sensitive areas like kindergartens, schools, playgrounds, sports facilities, recreational areas, parks, and residential areas with a high number of pines, such as the Anneröder settlement.

The treatment does not pose a risk to citizens, but it is important to follow the instructions of the on-site staff to ensure the work is completed quickly and effectively. The pine processionary caterpillar can cause damage to trees and unpleasant effects on humans due to the hairs of the caterpillars causing allergies.

Participating in this broad-based fight against the EPP are several property management services, including the Justus Liebig University, the Student Union Gießen, WevaTo, Wohnbau Gießen, the Vitos Clinic, among others.

It is worth noting that there are no specific public details available about the institutions in Gießen participating in Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP) measures in 2023 or about prioritized treatment locations for this condition.

The measures are weather-dependent, and delays may occur. The city council urges residents to check the city's official website for updates and any changes in the schedule.

By taking these preventive measures, the City of Gießen and its participating institutions hope to minimise the impact of the pine processionary caterpillar and ensure a healthy and safe environment for all its citizens.