MONOGAHELA – Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Penn State Extension Area Master Gardener Coordinator Valerie Sesler have advice for Pennsylvanians: If you see spotted lanternflies, squish them.
The detrimental, invasive insect is a threat to agriculture.
“Research, public-private partnerships, and boots-on-the-ground efforts have allowed us to learn more about this pest and develop best management practices to help farmers, transporters, homeowners, and communities combat spotted lanternfly. What we’ve learned is strengthening how we respond as the pest continues to move,” said Secretary Redding. “Everyone has a role to play, especially as Pennsylvanians travel for vacations. We ask you to remain vigilant and continue to look before you leave.”
Those who find spotted lanternflies on their property can reduce the population and its impact by trapping and squishing them. Penn State Extension’s website includes instructions for making your own circle trap using easily obtainable items including plastic milk jugs, duct tape, screen wire, twine, hot glue and gallon-sized food-storage bags. Traps can also be purchased through agriculture and nursery supply stores.
Research funded by the state, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and private industry has advanced Pennsylvania’s understanding of the spotted lanternfly and how to safely control it in our climate and habitat. To learn how to recognize the insect and its eggs, how to separate common myths from facts, and how to safely control it on your property, visit Penn State Extension’s website, extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly, or contact your local PSU Extension office.
