The latest buzz around Massachusetts isn't the kind you swat away but rather a bug of a different sort. The Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive species that's been causing a stir across multiple states, has firmly planted its six legs in over 50 cities and towns within nine counties of the Bay State, as reported by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). The MDAR is urging residents and businesses to seriously take up guidance strategies to help manage these pests and hopefully prevent them from spreading further.
These insects might not be a direct threat to your furry friends or you, but they sure can do a number on over 100 different plant species, feasting on their sap. Presently, they are shifting into their adult stage – those pesky bugs with gray wings dotted with black that hide a flashy set of red hindwings underneath. Keep an eye out for them near grapevines, maples, or any of the other usual suspect plants like tree-of-heaven, bittersweet, or black walnut, especially if you're into agriculture or your Sunday brunch spot is outdoors.
Yes, they're a real problem for grapevines and the unfortunate young saplings, but mature trees largely shrug off their advances. What you mainly need to watch out for is the icky honeydew they leave behind – not the melon, but the sticky residue that can really put a damper on your afternoon picnic or, worse, your local vineyard's bottom line. In response, the MDAR has rolled out an SLF Management Guide full of tips on trapping these buggers, yanking out their preferred plants, and updates on what the state's doing to keep them from turning your town into the next hot spot.
MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle shared that the agency is focusing its energy on slowing down the SLF’s march across the state, primarily in areas where agriculture is getting hit hard and places where businesses might accidentally ship these stowaways to fresh territories. "With populations of spotted lanternfly expanding, we expect that more residents will start to see SLF activity at home or where they work," Randle said. They've got to prioritize with the limited resources they have, which means some folks are going to have to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on with their lanternfly issues.
In their announcement, the MDAR mentioned that they've been practically swamped with calls this summer. They're asking that if you spot one of these nuisances, to first check this handy map to see if your town is already on the SLF's dance card. And if you happen to catch these bugs setting up shop in a new location, snap a picture and visit the MDAR's website to report it. Let's just say it's time for a little community action to keep our backyard wineries and trees free from the sticky grasp of the Spotted Lanternfly.
