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Penn State Extension hosts class on controlling invasive insect Spotted Lanternfly

Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive planthopper, was discovered in Berks County in 2014. It is native to China, India, Vietnam, and was also introduced to Korea where it has become a major pest. This insect has the potential to greatly impact the stone fruit, grape, hops and logging industries. Damage to blueberries, basil, cucumbers and horseradish has also been observed.
Submitted photo – Carl Hess
Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive planthopper, was discovered in Berks County in 2014. It is native to China, India, Vietnam, and was also introduced to Korea where it has become a major pest. This insect has the potential to greatly impact the stone fruit, grape, hops and logging industries. Damage to blueberries, basil, cucumbers and horseradish has also been observed.
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The Spotted Lanternfly is an extremely invasive insect that affects gardens and landscape plants as well as important Pennsylvania commodities. This past fall, the quarantine for Spotted Lanternfly expanded to include 13 counties in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Penn State Extension is offering a class for interested individuals to provide the latest information regarding control of the Spotted Lanternfly and what the public can do to help. The event will be held at the Berks County Agricultural Center Auditorium, 1238 County Welfare, Leesport, on Jan. 25, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This event is available to all members of the public and will include updates from Penn State Extension, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and Berks County Conservation District. This event is open to anyone interested in learning more about the Spotted Lanternfly regardless of home county and quarantine. Bring your questions and join us for discussions on the current status of this invasive insect, information on the quarantine, preparation for insect control in the 2018 season, and how individuals and communities can help stop the spread of this insect. Lunch and handouts are included.

There is no cost for this event; however, seating is limited and pre-registration is required by Jan. 18. Register online by going to this site: https://extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly-public-meeting

If you cannot register online, please call for assistance at 1-877-345-0691 Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Questions regarding the January 25, 2018 event can be directed to Amy Korman at amk6396@psu.edu by phone at 610-813-6613.

Penn State encourages people with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, call the Northampton County Extension office at 610-813-6613.