By Blake Jackson
The spotted lanternfly, an invasive pest from Asia, has been spreading rapidly across the United States since it was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014. The pest feeds on the sap of over 70 different kinds of plants and trees, including grapevines, which are a vital crop for New York's wine industry.
While the spotted lanternfly has not yet caused widespread damage to New York's vineyards, farmers are on high alert. They know that the pest is inevitable, and they are preparing for the worst.
One farmer in Long Island experienced a loss of 15% of his vineyard after the spotted lanternfly infested his property. The pest's sugary excrement and sooty mold can damage grapes and make them unmarketable.
Another farmer in Pennsylvania estimated that the spotted lanternfly could cost the state's wine industry at least $324 million per year and eliminate 2,800 jobs.
New York's wine industry is a major economic driver for the state, generating billions of dollars in revenue and supporting thousands of jobs. The arrival of the spotted lanternfly could have a devastating impact on industry.
Farmers in New York are taking steps to protect their vineyards from the spotted lanternfly. They are monitoring their vines closely for signs of infestation, and they are using a variety of control methods, such as insecticidal sprays and traps.
However, farmers know that they cannot completely prevent the spotted lanternfly from arriving in New York. They are preparing for the worst and hoping for the best.
Photo Credit: pennsylvania-department-of-agriculture
Categories: New York, Business, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables