Pennsylvania has added four new counties to the quarantine list due to the presence of the invasive spotted lanternfly. The destructive pest, first discovered in the U.S. in 2014, poses a threat to valuable food and ornamental crops. Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed continued funding to combat the lanternflies and other invasive pests and pathogens. The funding will also support a second lanternfly detection dog, Ruby, in western Pennsylvania. Residents are encouraged to look for and destroy lanternfly eggs before they hatch in the spring to slow the spread of the pest. An online survey and map have been created to help vineyard owners, farmers, researchers, and extension educators track any infestations of spotted lanternflies. This tool will aid in identifying and reporting the insects, controlling them on properties, and preventing them from spreading to new areas. With coordinated efforts, the spread of the spotted lanternfly can be slowed, protecting crops and livelihoods. For more information on how to recognize, report, and control spotted lanternflies, visit agriculture.pa.gov/spottedlanternfly.
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