Annual tree spraying to begin April 15 Published April 8, 2009 95th Civil Engineering and Transportation Directorate EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The annual tree spraying for main base, military family housing and the Air Force Research Laboratory is scheduled to begin on April 15 and will be ongoing through June 30. The timely and effective tree spraying will reduce and eliminate the elm leaf beetle larvae that affect trees each year. All elm and ash trees will be sprayed. Cottonwood trees will only be sprayed if signs of infection exist. The first area to be sprayed is the temporary lodging facilities. The tree spraying will continue to Juniper Ridge, Joshua Acres, Tamarisk Plains, Mesquite Meadows, Desert Villa, Desert Villa Park, main base and the AFRL. Spraying in each area is expected to last seven to 10 days. This schedule is based on weather and wind conditions. Spraying will be delayed if winds exceed 8 mph. Signs will be posted at the entrances of each housing area one week prior to and during the week of scheduled spraying. Tree sprayers will knock on the door to notify occupants they will be spraying. Residents can assist the tree sprayers by providing access to front and back yards and by bringing pets indoors. Move any toys, lawn furniture or other movable items away from trees and place them under the covered patio or near the house. For more information, call Karen Bradshaw at 277-1160.