ZGHORTA, Lebanon: The Union of Zghorta Municipalities and the Agriculture Ministry began Monday fighting an outbreak of the sandalwood worm that is targeting pine trees in north Lebanon.
Several specialized workshops that provide pesticide training have been launched in fields in the villages of Bneshaai, Sebaal and Aito, as well as neighboring areas, and all expenses are covered by the Union of Zghorta Municipalities.
The ministry also provided the pesticides after sandalwood worm nests began surfacing in large numbers.
Sayed Morkus Douaihy, an environmental activist overseeing the pesticide spraying campaign, said it was the right time for spraying since it prevented the eggs from hatching and developing into larvae.
“We will also plan with the Union of Zghorta Municipalities regarding this area especially since the union’s head, Mr. Tony Sleiman, is offering us all the facilities needed to fight the outbreak.”