Odense Municipality calls public meeting over oak processionary moth outbreak

Odense Municipality has announced a public meeting on Friday to address the growing impact of the oak processionary moth, known locally as the “larven fra helvede” (larva from hell), DR reports.

The caterpillar’s toxic hairs have caused widespread disruption in southeastern Odense, prompting the closure of three footpaths, a daycare center, and a recycling station near Bilka after staff reported symptoms including itching and rashes.

The meeting, hosted by the municipality’s Climate and Environment Administration, will take place at 15:30 on July 3 at Odense Congress Center, with capacity for 1,000 attendees. Residents will have the opportunity to ask questions.

Climate and Environment Alderman Tim Vermund (S) acknowledged that too many residents have been affected and pledged to intensify control efforts. “We take this situation very seriously, and we deeply regret that citizens have experienced these disruptions,” he said.

Vermund confirmed that the municipality is recruiting additional contractors to expand eradication measures ahead of next summer. While complete elimination of the pest is impossible, he stated, the focus will remain on areas where public nuisance is reported.