The Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Has Been Expanded in PA: What You Need to Know

In Pennsylvania, the spotted lanternfly quarantine has been expanded to include 12 new counties in advance of the hatching that occurs in spring. So far, these counties have a few municipalities with a known infestation, rather than complete contamination. Still, the spotted lanternfly has done enough damage to Pennsylvania’s environment and various industries to warrant such caution. In addition, the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) and the TCIA (Tree Care Industry Association) have designated that taking care of invasive pests including the spotted lanternfly are considered essential services under the shelter in place restrictions for Pennsylvania and Delaware. Below is everything you need to know about spotted lanternflies and the expanded quarantine.

Quarantine Guidelines

The quarantine has been established to limit the spread of spotted lanternfly, which is a “hitchhiker” and tends to catch a ride to other areas on vehicles or things being transported. Trucks carrying loads from outside the quarantine area into the area, or through the area if they are stopping inside, must acquire permits. Businesses, such as landscapers or professional tree care companies, must be certified to work in quarantine areas. Fines may be assessed for noncompliance with the quarantine.

The additional counties bring the number of counties under quarantine in Pennsylvania to 26. The newest counties added are:

• Allegheny
• Beaver
• Blair
• Columbia
• Cumberland
• Huntingdon
• Juniata
• Luzerne
• Mifflin
• Northumberland
• Perry
• York

Spotted Lanternfly Facts

The first recorded spotting of the spotted lanternfly in the United States was in 2014, and the pest is found mostly in states along the east coast, particularly Pennsylvania.

Adult lanternflies have black heads, and are about one inch long. Their most distinctive feature is gray wings with small black spots. When flying, the bug shows smaller bright red wings, which are hidden during rest. Younger lanternflies look more like larvae and have black spots, slowly gaining a red color with age.

Spotted lanternflies can quickly expand their presence, flying or hopping onto vehicles or transported materials, including:

• Firewood
• Construction or landscaping materials
• Outdoor equipment or furniture
• Crates or boxes

The Tree of Heaven is the preferred host for the spotted lanternfly, but other trees such as fruit and pine trees may also be affected.

How You Can Help Protect Your Trees

Though the spotted lanternfly quarantine has been expanded, the spotted lanternfly could show up anywhere. One way that you can help Pennsylvania manage this invasive pest is by being diligent and looking out for any signs of spotted lanternflies or activity. Spotted lanternfly blend in when resting on trees, so residents must be observant.

We also encourage you to look out for egg masses. Egg masses will either look similar to smears of mud or vertical rows of seed-like eggs. These will be found on trees, and because late-April and May are typically when these eggs hatch, inspecting your trees right now is especially vital.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Tree Services in Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Areas

The spotted lanternfly is a growing problem. The spotted lanternfly quarantine has been expanded for this reason. Stein Tree Service is committed to the health of our trees and helping homeowners maintain a healthy landscape. If you see the pest or evidence of activity, contact us for a consultation.

Stein Tree Earns Permit to Work in Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Areas
Stein has a permit to work in spotted lanternfly quarantine areas in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Tree Service Companies have to be trained in proper moving and disposal of materials to avoid spread of the spotted lanternfly and Stein has completed the training courses. Learn more.

Emerald Ash Borer Inspection
In the spring, destructive emerald ash borer (EAB) adult beetles begin to emerge. These invasive pests can destroy your ash trees. Our specialists are certified to treat for EAB in Pennsylvania and Delaware. For a free consultation, contact us today.