Closure of Lustig Park in Janesville

According to an update from the City of Janesville, the playground at Lustig Park has been temporarily closed due to the park’s infestation of Spongy Moths. The invasive, non-native insect possesses tiny hairs in its larval (caterpillar) stage that carry a histamine which can cause skin irritation and rashes. As a preventative measure, the playground will remain closed until the adult (moth) stage of the insect's life cycle. This development typically occurs in late June or early July. The City of Janesville Parks Division is actively working to eradicate the Spongy Moth infestation at Lustig Park. The insects can cause significant damage to oak trees by feeding on leaves, which impacts the health and longevity of the trees. Last fall, the Division sprayed horticultural oil on egg masses at the park to prevent hatching. In recent weeks, two applications of naturally occurring bacteria have been aerially applied by helicopter to control hatched caterpillars living in the park's upper canopy. For questions, call the Janesville Parks Division at (608) 755-3025.