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Pa. wine country could be targeted by spotted lanternflies | Today in Pa.

Pennsylvania's Wine Country Under Threat: Spotted Lanternflies Pose Growing Risk to Vineyards

In the rolling hills of Pennsylvania's wine country, where vineyards stretch across picturesque landscapes from the Lake Erie region to the southeastern valleys, a new peril is emerging that could disrupt the state's burgeoning wine industry. According to recent reports from agricultural experts and state officials, the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect species, is increasingly targeting grapevines, potentially leading to significant economic and ecological damage. This development, highlighted in the latest "Today in PA" roundup, underscores the ongoing battle against invasive pests in the Keystone State, where wine production has become a vital part of the local economy.

The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), native to parts of Asia, first appeared in Pennsylvania in 2014, detected in Berks County. Since then, it has spread rapidly across the state and beyond, establishing populations in at least 14 states along the East Coast. This planthopper, easily recognizable by its striking black-spotted red wings and grayish body, doesn't bite humans but wreaks havoc on plants. It feeds by piercing plant tissues and sucking out sap, which weakens the host and excretes a sticky substance called honeydew. This honeydew promotes the growth of sooty mold, a black fungus that can block sunlight from leaves, further stressing plants and reducing their productivity.

Pennsylvania's wine industry, which boasts over 300 wineries and contributes more than $1.6 billion annually to the state's economy, is particularly vulnerable. Regions like Erie County, home to the Lake Erie Wine Country, and the southeastern areas around Chester and Montgomery counties, produce a variety of wines from grapes such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and native varieties like Concord. These vineyards provide not only fine wines but also agritourism opportunities, drawing visitors for tastings, festivals, and scenic tours. However, the spotted lanternfly's preference for grapevines—along with other crops like apples, hops, and stone fruits—makes it a direct threat to this sector.

Experts from Penn State Extension and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture have been monitoring the insect's spread closely. In recent updates, they've noted a surge in lanternfly populations in areas adjacent to wine-producing zones. For instance, in the summer months, adult lanternflies become highly mobile, capable of flying short distances or hitching rides on vehicles, which facilitates their dispersal into new territories. This mobility is especially concerning during harvest season, when grapevines are laden with fruit and at their most susceptible. Infestations can lead to reduced grape yields, poorer fruit quality, and in severe cases, vine death. One study from Penn State estimates that unchecked lanternfly damage could cost Pennsylvania's agricultural sector up to $324 million annually, with vineyards bearing a significant portion of that burden.

The mechanism of damage is multifaceted. When lanternflies feed en masse on grapevines, they extract vital nutrients, causing leaves to wilt and curl. The honeydew they produce attracts other pests like ants and wasps, creating a cascade of ecological disruptions. Moreover, the sooty mold that develops can taint grapes, affecting wine flavor profiles and making them unsuitable for premium vintages. Winemakers in affected areas have reported instances where entire rows of vines needed to be removed or heavily treated, leading to lost revenue and increased operational costs.

State officials are not taking this threat lightly. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has implemented a quarantine in 51 counties, restricting the movement of certain materials like firewood, outdoor furniture, and vehicles that could transport lanternfly eggs or nymphs. Public awareness campaigns encourage residents to "see it, squash it, report it," promoting vigilant monitoring and immediate action against the pests. Traps, such as sticky bands wrapped around tree trunks, and insecticides like neonicotinoids are recommended for control, though environmentalists caution about the potential harm to beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

In wine country specifically, vineyard owners are adopting integrated pest management strategies. For example, some are planting trap crops—plants that lanternflies prefer over grapevines—to divert the insects away from valuable vines. Others are using biological controls, introducing natural predators like certain wasps or fungi that target lanternflies without broad-spectrum chemical use. Research is ongoing at institutions like Cornell University and Penn State to develop more targeted solutions, including genetic studies to understand the insect's vulnerabilities.

The economic ripple effects extend beyond the vineyards. Pennsylvania's wine industry supports thousands of jobs in farming, production, hospitality, and distribution. A downturn due to lanternfly infestations could impact local communities, reducing tourism dollars and straining rural economies. Take the example of the Finger Lakes-inspired wineries along Lake Erie, where events like the annual Wine on the Lake festival draw crowds from across the Northeast. If grape quality declines, these attractions could suffer, leading to a broader hit on the state's agritourism appeal.

Climate change may be exacerbating the problem. Warmer winters allow more lanternfly eggs to survive, and extended growing seasons provide longer feeding periods. Scientists predict that without aggressive intervention, the pest could expand further northward and westward, potentially affecting wine regions in New York and Ohio that border Pennsylvania.

Personal stories from those on the front lines add a human dimension to the crisis. John Martini, a vineyard owner in Chester County, shared in a recent interview how he first noticed the lanternflies on his property two years ago. "It started with a few spots on the leaves, but within weeks, there were hundreds swarming the vines," he recounted. "We've had to double our pesticide budget and hire extra help just to keep them at bay. It's not just about the money—it's heartbreaking to see years of careful cultivation undone by these invaders."

Similarly, entomologist Dr. Emily Carter from Penn State warns that complacency could lead to disaster. "The spotted lanternfly is a resilient species, and it's adapting quickly to our controls," she explained. "Community involvement is key. Everyone from homeowners to truck drivers needs to check for hitchhikers and report sightings through apps like the one provided by the USDA."

Efforts to combat the lanternfly are gaining momentum through federal and state funding. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has allocated millions for research and eradication programs, including the development of sterile insect techniques and pheromone traps. In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro's administration has prioritized invasive species management in its agricultural budget, recognizing the threat to food security and biodiversity.

Looking ahead, the future of Pennsylvania's wine country hinges on proactive measures. Educational workshops for winemakers, collaborations with neighboring states, and continued public engagement are essential. While the spotted lanternfly may not eradicate the industry overnight, its potential to target and weaken vineyards serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of agricultural systems in the face of invasive threats.

As harvest season approaches, vigilance remains the watchword. For now, Pennsylvania's vintners are holding the line, blending tradition with innovation to protect their vines. But the battle against the spotted lanternfly is far from over, and its outcome could shape the flavor of Pennsylvania wines for years to come. This ongoing story, as covered in "Today in PA," highlights the intersection of environmental challenges and economic vitality in the state, urging all residents to join the fight against this colorful yet destructive invader.

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Read the Full Penn Live Article at:
[ https://www.pennlive.com/news/2025/07/pa-wine-country-could-be-targeted-by-spotted-lanternflies-today-in-pa.html ]