How to safely manage spotted lanternfly on your property
April 13, 2020
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What the new Spotted Lanternfly quarantine map means for homeowners

Recently, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) announced that the Pennsylvania Spotted Lanternfly quarantine zone has been expanded from 14 counties to 26, most of which border the counties of the previous quarantine area.

Details the expanded quarantine in PA with the additional 12 counties in blue
Image courtesy of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

What this means

The additional twelve counties have been added to the quarantine map  as part of a state-wide initiative to stop the spread of the spotted lanternfly (SLF). While this change does indicate that SLF is being found in new areas, it’s important to note that the new counties in the quarantine zone are not completely infested.  Spotted lanternfly have been found in specific municipalities within the new zone, resulting in a redefined map.  PDA asks residents to report SLF sightings to gauge the populations in the new zones.  Report a sighting by calling: 1-888-4BAD-FLY (1-888-422-3359) or online.

However, spotted lanternfly presence in new areas means that homeowners should take additional precautions when entering and leaving areas within the quarantine zone to reduce the risk of transporting egg masses or hitchhiker lanternflies.

What LCCD is doing

The Lancaster County Conservation District   (LCCD) is working closely with state and federal organizations to help eradicate this invasive pest. Here’s a snapshot of what we do:

  • Recruit and train staff that promote efforts to “stop the spread” of SLF
  • Organize regional SLF update meetings with municipalities throughout the county
  • Coordinate the treatment of ailanthus trees (Tree-of-Heaven) by partnering with PDA and USDA.
  • Attend local/regional summits that present best management practices for Spotted Lanternfly
  • Share research and SLF control methods made public by Penn State Extension

How you can help:

Homeowners play a critical role in the management of the Spotted Lanternfly. In addition to regularly checking your own property for egg masses, nymphs, or adult spotted lanternflies, consider taking the following steps:

  • Look before you Leave! Inspect vehicles kept outdoors for Spotted Lanternfly or egg masses. Destroy any you see.
  • Be proactive! Treat ailanthus trees on your property with an appropriate herbicide or hire a certified contractor. Could include the link for Homeowners Guide from Penn State Extension If doing the work yourself, be sure to adhere to all township and product guidelines.
  •  Spread the word! Inform friends and neighbors of the dangers that the Spotted Lanternfly poses to Pennsylvania’s economy. Together, we can all make a difference!
  • Report a bug! If you see egg masses or find lanternflies on your property, report a sighting online or by calling the hotline: 1-888-4BAD-FLY (1-888-422-3359).
  • Chip it! If possible, chip all woody debris on location if you’re within the quarantine zone. Be sure the chips are no longer than 1 inch in each of two dimensions. Learn more.

No matter where you live, you can help stop the spotted lanternfly.

Justin Furnia
Justin Furnia
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