The Tennessee Department of Agriculture confirmed the spotted lanternfly in East Tennessee. Inspectors found 15 adult insects in Knox County after a citizen reported the pest. This is the first detection of the spotted lanternfly in the area, according to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
A report from a local resident led to a quick response from state agricultural authorities. A Tennessee Department of Agriculture detection dog confirmed the presence of the spotted lanternfly. "Citizen reports are essential in stopping the spread of this destructive pest," Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M., said. He added, "This non-native insect threatens the health and viability of several agricultural businesses in our state." The spotted lanternfly feeds on a variety of plants, including grapevines and hardwoods. It is also known for laying eggs on many types of surfaces, making it easy to spread through human activity.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is asking residents to help stop the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly. People can report sightings with photos on the Tennessee Department of Agriculture website, destroy insects and egg masses, and check vehicles or outdoor equipment before moving them. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Plant Certification Section is also working with nurseries, greenhouses, and plant dealers to keep plant material free of pests and to monitor shipments coming into the state.
