An invasive species of insect first found in Berks County last fall is apparently on the move, and has now been discovered in neighboring Montgomery County.
Several boroughs in Upper Hanover Township are now under quarantine because the spotted lanternfly has been found in their area. The insect sucks sap from trees and vines and could hurt the state’s number one industry – agriculture, although it hasn’t had an impact yet.
Dana Rhodes, State Plant Regulatory Official with the state Department of Agriculture, says they are counting on residents to let them know if the spotted lanternfly is found in new areas so they can take steps to eradicate it.
She says the department is also working with universities, as well as orchard and vineyard owners to keep track of the problem.
State Rep. Marty Causer, chair of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, tells WESB no hearings on the spotted lanternfly have been scheduled, but committee staff are monitoring the situation.