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