On Sept. 22, 2014, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, confirmed the presence the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula, (WHITE) in Berks County, the first detection of this non-native species in the United States. Now 13 counties in the eastern part of the state are under quarantine for the pest.

Earlier this year, we reported that Butler County was added to Pennsylvania’s spotted lanternfly quarantine zone after the Department of Agriculture reported confirmed sightings in Cranberry and Jackson townships last summer.

Now, the insect is back in clusters across the southwestern part of Butler County. Cranberry Township issued a notice about the invasive species last week.

The post on the township’s website urges residents to “take action” against the spotted lanternfly and warns of its potential threat to the environment and the economy.

“All residents and businesses must comply with the SLF (spotted lanternfly) order and regulations, which strictly prohibits the movement of any SLF living stage including egg masses, nymphs and adults and regulates the movement of articles that may harbor the insect,” the notice said.

Business owners should be especially intentional about checking items for the bugs before traveling, but the average person who commutes or shops in the area can take precautions, too. One way to do this is to check your vehicle for the spotted lanternfly prior to leaving the area.

Additionally, those with the Tree of Heaven in their landscapes could consider removing it. The spotted lanternfly is attracted to the plant.

At this point, you likely know what you should do with the spotted lanternfly: Smash it. Crush it. Destroy it. Somehow, someway, kill it.

What you may not know is why it matters so much.

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive pest hungry for our native plants; the insect will suck sap from over 70 different plant species. Its presence threatens plant life and the enjoyment of the outdoors, according to Penn State Extension.

While the Tree of Heaven is among the insects’ favorites, they may also go after “economically important plants,” such as grapevines and maple, black walnut, birch and willow trees, Penn State Extension said.

When the insect feeds on the plants, it can cause them to become unhealthy and lead to their death.

Further, the honeydew-like substance that the insect excretes attracts bees and wasps and can build up in ways that cover plants, patio furniture and more.

A study by economists at Penn State estimated the spotted lanternfly potentially could negatively affect the state’s economy by at least $324 million every year.

It’s in everyone’s best interest to kill the bug. When you see it, squish it.

To report a spotted lanternfly sighting to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, call 1-888-4BAD-FLY (1-888-422-3359).

— TL