Quarantine Issued In Pennsylvania Townships Over Invasive Pest

Hoping to eliminate the threat from an invasive species that has been found in Berks County, Pennsylvania officials declared a quarantine for Pike and District townships. While people are free to come and go, the quarantine issued in the Pennsylvania townships is a materials quarantine. The Spotted Lanternfly, native to parts of China and eastern Asia, could be spread into other areas when people transport firewood, brush, yard waste or other wooden items. Even packing materials, boxes and tarps are included in the general quarantine. Lawn mowers, trucks or other vehicles stored outside can also transport the Spotted Lanternfly, according to the State of Pennsylvania officials.

The purpose of the quarantine is to quickly eliminate what is being called a “threat to agriculture.” According to NPR, the invasive insect attacks trees by feeding on sap. The insect species that Pennsylvania officials hope to control poses a threat to orchards, vineyards, forests and the timber industry.

“Since this is new to the country we are taking every precaution possible,” George Greig, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, explained in a statement. “We need to do everything we can to stop the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly.”

Pennsylvania announced the quarantine over the weekend stating that the insect has the potential to impact key industries.

“The general quarantine of the two townships restricts movement of any material or object that can spread the pest. This includes firewood or wood products, brush or yard waste, remodeling or construction materials and waste, packing material like boxes, grapevines for decorative purposes or as nursery stock, and any outdoor household articles like lawnmowers, grills, tarps and any other equipment, trucks or vehicles not stored indoors.”

“Businesses in the general quarantine area need to obtain a Certificate of Limited Permit from the department in order to move articles. Criminal and civil penalties of up to $20,000 and prison time can be imposed for violations by businesses or individuals.”

The Lanternfly has no natural enemies, according to NBC Philadelphia. While announcing the quarantine, the officials in Pennsylvania also informed the public on how to spot the Lanternfly and how to recognize its egg cluster. A “Bad Bugs” hotline can be used to call in any sightings of these insects at any stage in their development. That phone number is 1-866-253-7189. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture issued a comprehensive list of items covered under the quarantine on its website.

[Photo via the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture]