The 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.
On May 26, 2018, a new Spotted Lanternfly Order of Quarantine and Treatment was published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) established the quarantine order to stop this pest from moving out of the currently affected area. PDA is also working to minimize the movement of SLF within the quarantine area, by deterring the movement of SLF on materials, equipment, vehicles, etc. from high population areas into areas with low to no populations.
All residents and businesses must comply with the regulations. A SLF permit is required for businesses working within the quarantine that move products, vehicles or other conveyances within or out of the quarantine.
Training classes are being offered free of charge. The classes will consist of a pre-recorded training session followed by a 20-question exam. A score of 70% (14/20) is required to pass and to receive a permit.
Training classes in Bucks County are offered 9 to 11 a.m. Aug. 26 and 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Bucks County PennState Extension Office, 1282 Almshouse Road, Building K, Doylestown.
Registration is required. To register, contact 717-787-5674 or
SLFPermit@pa.gov.
