Since 2004, the gypsy moth has plagued northern Illinois, destroying
oak trees in parks and recreation areas. These moths have been migrating
slowly from the northern United States to the southern United States.
In order to manage the gypsy moth population, the Village of Oak Brook
performs aerial sprays in areas where oak trees are present. The
treatment consists of a naturally occuring bacterium called Kacillus
Thuringiensis (BTK). BTK is highly effective in controlling gypsy moth
populations, but is not harmful to people, pets, livestock, or the
The village first needed to define the boundary for each spray area
using a combination of aerial imagery and parcel boundaries in
Geographic Information System (GIS). Each spray area was then
classified as either ”Village” or ”Forest Preserve” to determine who was
responsible for the spraying. The amount of BTK required for each
aerial spray was then calculated using the total acreage for each spray
area. Maps were created for each individual spray area as well as a map
showing the location of all the spray areas throughout the village.
The maps were sent to residents in the spray areas to provide
information on the location and extent of the sprays.
The map below shows each spray area along with its classification.
Village spray areas include Heritage Oaks, Timber Trails, and the Bath
and Tennis Club. Forest Preserve spray areas include portions of
Fullersburg Woods and Yorkshire Woods. Also defined were elective spray
areas or areas that contain a small number of oak trees. These areas,
which are the responsibility of the village, include: Trinity Lakes,
Chateaux Woods, and select locations throughout the village.
Through GIS, gypsy moth spray areas can be quickly defined,
classified, and their total acreage can be calculated in minutes.
Public Works staff can determine how much spray is needed and who is
responsible for each spray area. Maps of the spray areas allow village
residents to easily visualize the location and extent of the spray
areas. This information can be used as a reference when determining
spray areas for future years as well.