Spotted Lanterfly Forum In Collegeville: How To Prevent, Destroy

COLLEGEVILLE, PA — A forum on Thursday night in Collegeville will address how to prevent and destroy the devastating spotted lanternfly.

The nonnative and invasive bug has wreaked economic and ecological havoc over the past several years, as populations of the destructive species have blossomed.

The forum, to be held at Perkiomen Valley High School at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, will bring together a panel of experts to discuss the threat.

"We all need to be well informed in order to stop the spread of the spotted lanternfly,” State Rep. Joe Ciresi said in announcing the forum. "I’m pleased to be able to help bring together expert panelists to help residents know what’s at stake."

The bug threatens Pennsylvania's $20.5 million grape industry, $134 million apple industry, $24 million stone fruit industry, and $12 billion hardwood industry, agriculture officials said.

Nymph and adult spotted lanternflies cause extensive damage when they feed, sucking sap from stems and leaves and causing the plant to ooze and weep. Not only does the plant die but the "fermented odor" caused by the feeding, along with the fluid excreted by the insects themselves, promotes mold growth and draws even more insects, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Montgomery County is in a quarantine area, along with much of the region, aimed to slow the spread of the bug.

Perkiomen Valley High School is located on 509 Gravel Pike.