By Blake Jackson
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM), in partnership with the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program (LERGP), has launched a coordinated grid search effort in and around Ripley, New York, to detect and manage the invasive Spotted Lanternfly (SLF).
This joint initiative underscores the shared commitment to protect the state’s grape industry and demonstrate that state agencies and the land-grant system are working together to mitigate the pest’s potential impact on agricultural crops.
“Protecting our growers is at the heart of our land-grant mission. By combining local expertise with State resources, these structured grid surveys allow us to detect any presence of Spotted Lanternfly quickly and respond decisively," LERGP Team Leader, Jennier Phillips Russo, said.
"We want growers and community partners to know we are on it methodically, transparently, and with urgency.”
“Thanks to the collaboration with our partners at the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program, we are able to ensure a thorough and rapid response to reports of SLF in the area," New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said. "While we continue our work to manage SLF, we are focused on doing all we can to protect the grape and wine economy in this region."
The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect that feeds on grapevines and other plants, leaving behind a sugary residue known as honeydew, which fosters sooty mold. This can weaken vines, affect fruit quality, and result in significant financial losses.
Trained teams from AGM’s Division of Plant Industry and LERGP conducted systematic, block-by-block surveys targeting key areas such as vineyard edges, transport routes, rail lines, warehouses, and sites with Tree-of-Heaven, a preferred SLF host. Data collected during the searches was mapped in real time to guide response and containment strategies.
Growers and residents are encouraged to help by learning how to identify SLF life stages, inspecting vehicles and outdoor equipment before moving them, managing Tree-of-Heaven near vineyards, and reporting sightings through ReportSLF.com or local extension offices.
Photo Credit: istock-jhvephoto
Categories: New York, Crops, Government & Policy