The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) and the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program (LERGP) have announced a coordinated effort to conduct thorough searches for the invasive Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) in and around Ripley, New York. The initiative aims to protect the region’s grape industry and provide reassurance to growers that state agencies and the land-grant system are working together to address the threat.
According to LERGP Team Leader Jennifer Phillips Russo, the surveys combine local expertise with state resources, allowing for early detection and rapid response. “We want growers and community partners to know we are on it—methodically, transparently, and with urgency,” Russo said.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball added, “Thanks to our collaboration with the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program, we can ensure a thorough and rapid response to reports of SLF in the area. Protecting the grape and wine economy is our top priority.”
SLF, also known as Lycorma delicatula, is an invasive insect that feeds on grapevines and other plants, leaving behind honeydew that encourages sooty mold. This can reduce vine vigor, affect fruit quality, and lead to significant economic losses. Early detection is critical to minimizing its spread.
How the Surveys Work
Trained teams from AGM’s Division of Plant Industry and LERGP conducted systematic, block-by-block grid searches for all life stages of SLF, including egg masses and adults. The surveys focused on high-risk areas, such as vineyard edges, transportation routes, rail lines, warehouses, and sites with Tree-of-Heaven, a preferred host. Data from the surveys was mapped in real time to guide follow-up actions, including potential containment and eradication measures.
The program also emphasizes early reporting and rapid response, sharing best practices with growers, and providing guidance on sanitation and safe movement of materials to prevent accidental spread.
How Growers and Residents Can Help
- Know what to look for: Egg masses in winter, nymphs in spring and early summer, and adults from late summer to winter.
- Report sightings: Use AGM’s SLF reporting channels or visit ReportSLF.com.
- Inspect and clean: Check vehicles, equipment, pallets, trailers, and outdoor items before moving them.
- Manage hosts: Identify and manage Tree-of-Heaven near vineyards.
- Scrape egg masses: Remove eggs from surfaces like vehicles, firewood, or outdoor furniture and dispose of them in a sealed bag with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer.
Russo emphasized that “Collaboration like this makes a real difference. Our growers can be confident that monitoring is thorough, the science is sound, and the response is coordinated.”
New York State’s Ongoing Response
Since the first detection of SLF in Staten Island in 2020, state agencies including AGM, the Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Integrated Pest Management program have been working with partners nationwide to track and manage the invasive insect. The goal is to keep growers and other affected parties informed and prepared with current management strategies.
Economic Impact
SLF could cost New York at least $300 million annually, primarily affecting the grape and wine industry, which ranks third nationally in production. The insects also pose challenges to quality of life and recreation due to the honeydew and swarming behavior.
For more information and updates on SLF monitoring and management, visit agriculture.ny.gov/spottedlanternfly or Cornell CALS IPM’s website.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
