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Wendell board greenlights NC State research partnership to study and treat large red‑field ant infestation in town park
Summary
The board authorized the town manager to enter an agreement with NC State for a research‑driven baiting and monitoring program aimed at reducing Formica integra (red field ant) populations in Wendell Park; NC State estimated ~ $7,000 per year for bait materials, outlined monitoring and safety precautions, and flagged ecological uncertainties including possible 'vacuum' effects and non‑target impacts.
The Wendell Town Board on Monday authorized a research and treatment agreement with North Carolina State University to test a large‑scale baiting and monitoring approach for a heavy infestation of Formica integra, commonly called the red field ant, in Wendell Park.
Jeff Pulaski (Public Works/parks) introduced Dr. Christopher Hayes, an urban entomologist at NC State, who described the park as a “fascinating ecosystem” dominated in many areas by red field ants. Using calendar‑year observations, Dr. Hayes said the species is non‑stinging but defends itself by biting and spraying formic acid; unlike invasive fire ants, the red field ant is native and plays an ecological role. The…
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