OSU Extension: Spotted lanternfly spreading across Ohio

Connie Smith
·3 min read

The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) has confirmed several new spotted lanternfly (SLF) infestations across the state, including Columbus and Toledo.

In 2021, ODA designated the spotted lanternfly as a destructive plant pest and established regulations aimed at reducing the risk of spread. As a result of new detections, Franklin, Hamilton, Lucas, Mahoning, and Muskingum counties will be added to the spotted lanternfly regulated area. In regulated areas, spotted lanternfly infestations have been confirmed and inspections are increased.

The spotted lanternfly was first detected in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014. It was likely brought to the U.S. by imported goods. The first confirmation in Ohio was in Mingo Junction in 2020.

These spotted lantern flies were recently found in the Toledo area.
These spotted lantern flies were recently found in the Toledo area.

The spotted lanternfly is an insect native to Asia that is a pest of grapes, hops, and apples, along with many other species of plants. This pest is a great concern to the grape and wine industry, which contributes more than $6 billion dollars in economic activity to the state yearly. An invasive tree known as tree of heaven is the primary host for spotted lanternfly.

The public plays an important role in detecting this insect. In late summer and into fall, spotted lanternflies are in their adult stage. They are approximately one inch, with black bodies and colorful red and grey wings with black markings. They will lay eggs (small, grey masses covered by a waxy covering) beginning in October.

If you think you see spotted lanternfly or damage caused by them, please report it to ODA by filling out the Ohio Plant Pest Reporter at: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/1b36dd2cf09e4be0a79776a6104ce1dc. A clear photo is required for submissions.

For more information on SLF please visit the ODA Resource Page at: https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/invasive-pests/invasive-insects/slf .

Forages for horses

The virtual Forages for Horses course will consist of four 60-minute webinars offering a variety of pasture and management topics as well as access to previous webinar recordings and complementary resources. Topics included in this year's webinars include hay production, maximizing pasture, pasture myth busters, toxic weeds, and stocking rates. Webinars will be followed by “Straight from the Horse’s Mouth” Q&A sessions with experts. Participants that attend all four webinars will have the opportunity to earn a certificate of completion. The first session begins on Wednesday, August 30 at 7:00 p.m. Cost of the course is $75.00 which includes a digital copy of the Forages for Horses Manual. A physical copy may be added to the cart at checkout. Register by visiting: https://go.osu.edu/foragesforhorsesregistration

New Recycling Site

The Village of Pleasantville has added a new site located at the Pleasantville Maintenance Building (106 E Columbus St. Pleasantville. This site accepts plastic (#1 ), cardboard, paper, aluminum and steel cans. If you have questions, please contact Lancaster-Fairfield Community Action’s Recycling Center at 740-687-1295.

Upcoming events

Canning Basics Classes at Keller Market HouseCanning Basics (water bath/pressure) Tuesday, Aug. 22, 6 to 7:30 p.m at Keller Market House., 134 S. Columbus Street, Lancaster Registration: go.osu.edu/FCFoodPreservation

Bats: What You Didn't Learn Watching BatmanAre bats flying rodents? Do they really get stuck in your hair? What about rabies?? Learn what’s true and what’s not about Ohio’s bats at this class.Thursday, Aug. 24, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.Location: Coyote Run Nature PreserveClass Fee: $15 (includes snacks and a packet of take-home information)Registration at woodlandstewards.osu.edu. Deadline: Aug. 21.Contact email: brown.2766@osu.edu

Planting for Pollinators in Your Home LandscapeTuesday, Aug. 29 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.Location: Fairfield County District Library, 219 N Broad St.Discover how to create a pollinator-friendly landscape! Join OSU Extension Educator, Carrie Brown, as we explore the basics behind using native flowering plants to attract local pollinators.This program is open to Adults, Teens, and their families.Register at: https://fcdlibrary.libnet.info/event/866726

This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: OSU Extension: Spotted lanternfly spreading across Ohio