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Title: COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH URBAN GYPSY MOTH CONTROL BY ARBORISTS

Author
item Thorpe, Kevin
item VAUGHN, CHRISTOPHER - CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
item STRAKA, THOMAS - CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
item HEDDEN, RAY - CLEMSON UNIVERISTY
item HAM, DONALD - CLEMSON UNIVERSITY

Submitted to: United States Department of Agricultural Interagency Gypsy Moth Research Forum
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/1997
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The European gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L), is an introduced forest pest that has significantly impacted hardwood forests and urban environments in the northeastern United States. Ground application of insecticides by arborists is the most effective control method available to protect individual trees. The objective of this study was to provide a cost analysis of this treatment method. On average, pest suppression services in the eastern region cost the residential property owner $104.70 per hour (does not include materials). Total actual cost for pest management (without profit) was $65.90. Labor accounted for approximately 30% of this cost, equipment for 11%, administrative overhead for 36%, and mobilization (travel and job set-up time) for 23%. Materials cost varied depending upon the treatment alternative chosen. Total costs for one treatment cycle of carbaryl, B.t.-low rate, B.t.-high rate, and diflubenzuron were $114.58,$256.20, $271.80, and $115.69, respectively. Material cost for one complete treatment cycle ranged from 12% to 62% of the total cost. An average profit figure was calculated for the two companies. This information will be of value to government agencies responsible for providing gypsy moth control in non-forest areas, researchers attempting to estimate the costs of gypsy moth management activities, and researchers seeking to prioritize gypsy moth management research problems based on those needs that are most critical. This information will also assist the general public in making their own gypsy moth control decisions.