For Immediate
Release:
May 13, 2021
County
Commissioners look to spread awareness about Spotted Lanternfly
FREEHOLD, NJ –The Monmouth County Board of County
Commissioners would like to spread awareness about the Spotted Lanternfly which
is an invasive planthopper that can affect agricultural crops that are
important to the County.
“The County is coordinating efforts between the
Monmouth County Parks System, Shade Tree Commission, Mosquito Control Division and
the Grown in Monmouth team to make every effort to ensure this insect does not
impact the quality of life in Monmouth County,” said
Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “The Spotted Lanternfly, while harmless
to humans and animals, is a danger to fruit crops and trees. We are asking everyone
to do their part to eliminate this threat to our plants and our agricultural
communities.”
The Spotted Lanternfly feeds on the sap of over 70
different plants. As the insect feeds, it excretes a honey dew that can attract
bees, wasps and other insects. The dew can also lead to build up of fungus on
plants, outdoor furniture and other surfaces.
“As part of our ongoing effort to keep our communities
and parks free of the Spotted Lanternfly, we will be posting flyers from the New
Jersey Department of Agriculture in various locations throughout the County to
raise awareness about this pest,” said Commissioner Lillian G. Burry. “Our agricultural
communities are vital to our economic success so please make sure to report any
Spotted Lanternflies in any of its life stages.”
Signs that the Spotted Lanternfly has affected
plants include:
- Plants that ooze or weep
and have a fermented odor
- Buildup of sticky fluid
(honeydew) on plants and on the ground underneath infested plants
- Sooty mold on infested
plants
Inspect trees and plants for signs of this pest,
particularly at dusk and at night when the insects tend to gather in large
groups on the trunks or stems of plants, and inspect trees (in particular, tree
of heaven), bricks, stone, and other smooth surfaces for egg masses.
If the Spotted Lanternfly is found, residents can go
http://www.badbug.nj.gov/ to report
a sighting.
# # #