Pennsylvania’s war on spotted lanternflies rages on, but are we winning? As autumn approaches, state officials are once again urging residents to squash, stomp, and obliterate these colorful yet destructive insects.
But after years of all-out assault, some are questioning the effectiveness of this strategy.
With the insects now spread across 14 states, it’s clear that individual squashing efforts alone won’t solve the problem. So what’s the current state of affairs, and what could we possibly do to control the lanternflies?
The Invasion Continues

Spotted lanternflies, first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014, have proven to be remarkably resilient. (ref) Despite widespread public education campaigns and eradication efforts, these Asian invaders have expanded their territory year after year.
They now pose a significant threat to agriculture across the Northeast, with particular concern for vineyards and orchards.
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The rapid spread of spotted lanternflies is alarming. According to the USDA, as of 2024, the insect has been detected in 14 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia. (ref)
This expansion demonstrates the insect’s ability to thrive in various environments and highlights the challenges of containment.
The Economic Impact
The potential economic damage from spotted lanternflies is staggering. A 2019 study estimated that, if left unchecked, these pests could cost Pennsylvania $324 million annually and eliminate over 2,800 jobs.
The wine and timber industries are particularly vulnerable, as lanternflies have a voracious appetite for grapevines and certain tree species.
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New Control Methods
While public squashing efforts have their place, researchers are exploring more sophisticated methods of control. These include:
- Targeted insecticide treatments
- Biological control using natural predators
- Pheromone traps to disrupt mating
- Genetic modification to reduce fertility
Recent research has shown promise in using native fungi as a biological control agent. Scientists at Penn State University have identified two fungi species that can effectively kill spotted lanternflies.
This discovery could lead to the development of more environmentally friendly control methods.
The Ethical Debate
As the battle continues, some environmentalists are raising concerns about the blanket “kill on sight” orders. They argue that such aggressive tactics could have unintended consequences on local ecosystems.
There is a need for a more nuanced approach to invasive species management. Some experts argue for a focus on habitat restoration and ecosystem resilience rather than solely targeting individual species.
Looking Ahead
As Pennsylvania enters another season of lanternfly combat, officials stress the importance of continued vigilance. While individual efforts may seem small, they contribute to the larger fight against this invasive species.
The future of spotted lanternfly control likely lies in integrated pest management strategies. This approach combines various control methods, including biological, chemical, and cultural practices, to manage pest populations in an environmentally sensitive and economically efficient manner.
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.