Tent Caterpillars Hit North Gull

The north end of Gull Lake has experienced some defoliation from forest tent caterpillars. Brainerd DNR Forester Mark Mortenson says homeowners have been noticing some thin treetops.

Had it not been for recent rain, the trees would be under stress.

Mortenson says it is important that the trees get heavy watering, should dry conditions set in.

The caterpillars have natural enemies. However, it takes a year for their populations to grow large enough to significantly reduce the number of caterpillars.