2026 Virginia Spongy Moth Suppression Treatment Program

Background: The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) has developed an Invasive Species Program to support the objectives outlined in the Virginia Invasive Species Management Plan to mitigate the negative impacts of invasive plants, pests, and pathogens in Virginia s forests. DOF will provide statewide coordination of invasive species management in Virginia, working with other state agencies and in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. Suppression of spongy moth populations is a priority for DOF since this invasive species can cause significant damage to forestland, especially if outbreaks last multiple years. DOF Forest Health staff mapped over 85,000 acres with spongy moth defoliation in 2024, and over 15,000 acres of damage in 2025. Funding Opportunity: State Invasive Species funds are available to localities for spongy moth suppression treatment in 2026. Local government staff will coordinate and implement treatment on public and private land. There is approximately $60,000 available for distribution. Any Virginia county or independent city with egg mass survey data showing the need for suppression treatment is eligible to apply. Federal entities are not eligible and funds may not be used on federal land. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and submit a Virginia State W9 form.Please note: Prior to applying for an award under this funding opportunity, applicants must first read DOF Grant FAQs, which is located on the SAP homepage in the User Guide section of the Announcements box. This document covers ineligible expenses and explains the expectations for both project management and successful claim submissions.Applications for this funding opportunity must be submitted through SAP which is accessible via the URL below:https://vaforestry.webgrantscloud.com/logout.doApplications may not be submitted through eVA.