Keystone Today

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture recently demonstrated how to properly use a circle trap to eliminate the invasive spotted lanternfly without hurting small animals or beneficial pollinators. 

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding met with Penn State Extension Area Master Gardener Coordinator Valerie Sessler, Washington County Conservation District Manager Matthew Golden and state and local leaders to discuss the threat of the spotted lanternfly, according to a release on July 6. The meeting was to share information and resources to help Pennsylvania residents list the spread of the insect.

"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,” Redding said. “What we've learned is strengthening how we respond as the pest continues to move. 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.”

A spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect from Asia that feeds off plants in Pennsylvania that are vital to the state economy. | agriculture.pa.gov

According to a tool kit created by the Department of Agriculture, the spotted lanternfly is an invasive plant hopper insect that is native to Asia and was first discovered in Pennsylvania for the first time in Berks County in 2014. They feed on sap from a number of plants, including some that are vital for the state economy like grapevines, maples, black walnut, birch and willow. This can stress the plants and sometimes cause death.

People who find lanternflies are asked to trap and squish the insects when found to reduce the population. Circle traps can be easily made for your property, using items that include a plastic milk jug, duct tape, screen wire, twice, hot glue and gallon-sized food storage bags. There are instructions to make one at the Penn State Extension website, and they can also be purchased at agriculture and nursery supply stores.

In March, the state quarantined 45 counties, including Washington County, where Redding met with officials. This quarantine stops the movement of the spotted lanternfly life stage, which includes egg masses, nymphs and adults. 

More information about the spotted lanternfly can be found at agriculture.pa.gov/spottedlanternfly.