ELMONT, N.Y. -- The army worms that invaded Saratoga's turf course on the Oklahoma training track earlier this month most likely will curtail training on the grass until at least July 30, according to Don Orlando, the New York Racing Association's superintendent.

The Oklahoma turf was treated with an insecticide to kill an infestation of army worms, who were eating the turf. Now, Orlando and his crew are working on the course to regrow the grass.

Orlando said he had hoped to reopen the course for training next Wednesday, the first day of the 36-day Saratoga meet.

"I don't think we'll make it," Orlando said. "Things are starting to get better and the grass is starting to green up. I want everything to be covered [with new grass] before we open. Being patient will help."

Orlando said there is the danger that eggs were laid below the surface of the grass and a new round of army worms will emerge.

"Hopefully, there isn't another group," Orlando said.

The army worms affected the racing turf courses to a far lesser degree, and those courses are scheduled to open at the start of the meet.