With the start of the 2024 growing season, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is sending this notice as a reminder to growers, retailers, and brokers of nursery stock, as well as all landscapers, to inspect any plant material being imported from states where the invasive pest known as spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula or "SLF") has been found, to ensure it does not harbor SLF egg masses, and to report any finds to MDAR. This reminder is especially important as there are now 17 states, including Massachusetts, with established infestations of this pest.
The spotted lanternfly is a sap-feeding insect that has caused significant impacts on vineyards, orchards, and other agricultural commodities in states where it has become established. SLF not only harms grapevines, maples, hops, blueberries, and over 100 other host plants but has the potential to negatively impact any outdoor business through their swarming behavior that occurs in late summer. MDAR continues to conduct surveys and treatments for known infestations throughout the state but needs all green industry representatives to be on the lookout for this pest.
Because SLF egg masses are flat and grayish-beige in color, they are difficult to detect, especially on tree bark. For examples, please see this Pest ID Tool. If you find an egg mass or any other life stage of SLF, please report it to MDAR here immediately.