Bill before Congress would give Maine $14 million to fight spruce budworm infestation

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • December 18, 2024

A disaster relief bill pending before Congress includes $14 million to fight the spread of the spruce budworm, an invasive species of tree-killing moths that is making a comeback in northern Maine. The federal funding would be supplemented by state and private money for spraying, according to Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who requested the funding and announced the proposal Wednesday. The bill now awaits consideration by the Senate and the House of Representatives.