The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development recently completed its 2025 survey on the invasive spotted lanternfly, which has been found in Jackson, Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, and Wayne Counties. "Spotted lanternfly does not pose a risk to human or animal health, but it can be a serious outdoor nuisance," MDARD Director Tim Boring said, according to the Michigan Invasive Species.
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is encouraging the public to report sightings, noting that "public reporting plays a key role in identifying new spotted lanternfly infestations and helping MDARD and its partners respond quickly." The agency is also monitoring shipping ports, considering quarantines, and providing a mapping tool to track the spread of these pests, as reported by the Michigan Invasive Species.
Michigan officials advise anyone who spots a spotted lanternfly to take a photo, note the location and time, and report it through the Eyes in the Field tool. Residents in Jackson, Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, and Wayne counties do not need to report new sightings, but travelers should check their gear to avoid spreading the insect. The spotted lanternfly feeds on tree-of-heaven, grapevines, and trees such as black walnut and maple, leaving a sticky residue that can grow mold. There is no insecticide made specifically for them, but general-use insecticides can be used, and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development monitors research on effective treatments, as stated by the Michigan Invasive Species.
