HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) — The Maryland Department of Agriculture says cankerworms have eaten the leaves off of many trees in Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s and Washington counties.

The agency said Tuesday that most trees will likely survive the green caterpillars.

Forest Pest Management Program Manager Bob Tatman says cankerworms are less destructive than gypsy moth caterpillars.

He says previous outbreaks of the native insects have lasted for up to three years. Tatman says the last large infestation occurred in 2007 in Anne Arundel and Cecil Counties.

He says the outbreaks are hard to predict.

Tatman says landowners may want to consider insecticide treatment for high-value trees. He says watering and fertilizing may also help keep trees healthy.

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