State officials are warning that spotted lanternflies will spread rapidly across New York by late May, posing a serious threat to agriculture and tourism. After quieter years, the invasive pests are expected to rebound sharply in 2025.
The insects damage crops like grapes and fruit trees and have already been found in several regions statewide. The DEC urges residents to kill lanternflies on sight and scrape egg masses to stop their spread.
With potential losses reaching $300 million annually, especially in the wine industry, New York is ramping up efforts to monitor and control infestations.
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