Jun 26, 2024Spotted Lanternfly detected in Monroe County, Michigan
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) confirmed the state’s second detection of the invasive spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) in Monroe County.
The small population of juvenile spotted lanternfly was found in Lambertville and confirmed by USDA on June 17.
“The infestation was detected through monitoring traps deployed by Michigan State University (MSU), as part of collaborative survey initiatives with MSU, MDARD, and the USDA,” said Steve Carlson, pesticide and plant pest management division director for MDARD. “This work is critical in our efforts to identify and limit the spread of spotted lanternfly in Michigan.”
Native to eastern Asia, the spotted lanternfly first appeared in the U.S. in 2014 in southeastern Pennsylvania. It has since spread to 17 eastern and midwestern states. The insect is known to feed on a wide range of plants, including tree nut crops, grapevines and others.
MDARD is collaborating with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, USDA, and Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas to assess the scope of the infestation and determine an appropriate response.
Residents are urged to help prevent the spread of spotted lanternfly by inspecting vehicles, crushing nymphs and adult insects, and reporting sightings online to Eyes in the Field. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/SpottedLanternfly.
