Spotted Lanternfly
Spotted Lanternfly adults, nymphs and egg masses
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Website Resources:
Virginia Cooperative Extension Resources for Spotted Lanterfly in Virginia
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) Spotted Lanternfly Resources
What Virginians Need to Know About the 2022 Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Expansion
Spotted Lanternfly Permit Training (cost $6)
Spotted Lanternfly Permit Brochure
Spotted Lanternfly Permit Application
Spotted Lanternfly in Albemarle County:
This invasive pest poses a significant threat to area vineyards, orchards and hops yards. In addition, mass numbers of these insects can be a nusiance to homeowners and cause damage to landscape trees.
The presence of Spotted Lanternfly adults in Albemarle County was reported and confirmed in July of 2021. Since then, other adults, nymphs and egg masses have been found in various parts of the county.
To slow the spread of Spotted Lanternfly, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has established quarantine areas where the insect is known. The quarantine area is expected to expand to include Albemarle County in July of 2022. Businesses in quarantined areas are required to obtain a permit from VDACS and inspect all regulated articles leaving the quarantined area to ensure the articles do not contain any life stage of the spotted lanternfly. See the links above and the VDACS website for permit and training information for businesses.
Everyone can help prevent the spread of Spotted Lanternfly by squashing those they find and inpecting vehicles and items stored outside before moving them into areas that do not have this insect yet.
Killing invasive Tree of Heaven or Ailanthus altissima (the Spotted Lanternfly's favorite host) is another way to deter this pest and slow their spread. See the video below for the best methods!
Informational Video: