Infestations of Spotted Lanternfly in Cuyahoga, Lorain, and Jefferson County have been Scouted
and Treated for Spotted Lanternfly.
This invasive insect has been hitchhiking on trains coming from Pennsylvania.
So why trap on an island in the middle of Lake Erie?
One word…..Campers.
On a recent trip to South Bass Island, I noticed campers on the ferry with Pennsylvania plates.
Since OSU, ODA, ODNR and USDA-Aphis have been deploying traps all over the state, it seems appropriate to trap on the islands since there are several vineyards on each.
And grapes are one of the primary preferred host of this destructive insect.
The big question is, “What can Campers Do? Especially Motor Homes and Travel Trailers?” the answer is inspecting your vehicle.
There is a checklist that is in use for commercial trucks leaving an SLF quarantined county. This would be a good start for campers to inspect their vehicle and gear.
So where can these insects hide? Almost anywhere.
Engine compartments,
wheel wells,
canopies,
storage compartments,
bumpers, camping gear,
and anything that has a metal surface where eggs can be laid.
Right now, the SLF is in the 3rd instar
and 4th instar life stage.
Soon, these will become adults,
capable of reproducing and laying egg masses.
So, while you looking, what should you do?
Take a picture, note the location, and send your find to ODA
https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/invasive-pests/slf
or report it using the Great Lakes Early Detection Network App which is a free download.
A short video downloading and using the app is attached:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PT9lik8X-Fs
Together, we can scout and slow the spread of Spotted Lanternfly.
