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Barry County commissioners hear spongy moth survey; members question spraying plans
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Summary
Presenters from the Barry Conservation District updated the Board on a spongy moth survey Jan. 28, 2025; commissioners thanked the team but raised financial, logistical and timing questions about any proposed spraying and asked staff to pursue non‑spray outreach options.
At the Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting on Jan. 28, 2025, Danielle Zoellner, executive director of the Barry Conservation District, forester Ben Savoie and Dr. Dave Dwyer briefed the board on the district’s spongy moth survey and potential management steps.
Chair David Jackson thanked the presenters and expressed concern about the financial and logistical implications of widespread spraying. Commissioner Mike Callton asked for the timeline: when the board would need to decide on spraying and when any application would take place. Commissioner Jon Smelker later asked whether the county could promote alternatives and non‑spraying mitigation through media outreach.
The presenters outlined the survey update and management options for the district; the transcript records the presentation and commissioners’ questions but does not record specific spray dates, estimated spray acreage or a proposed treatment budget. The board did not take a vote on pesticide application at the meeting.
The exchange ended with commissioners thanking the Conservation District for its work. No formal directive, funding authorization, or scheduling decision on spraying appears in the minutes; commissioners instead flagged the issue for further information and community outreach.