The Chester County Health Department would like to make municipalities aware that Chester County is quarantined for Spotted Lanternfly. The quarantine is in place to stop the movement of this pest to new areas and to slow its spread within the quarantine. The quarantine affects a variety of plant, wood and stone products.
The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive insect new to the United States. Spotted Lanternflies are native to Southeast Asia, but they have been introduced to other areas of Asia as well—including to Korea, where Spotted Lanternflies are a major pest to agriculture to include major destruction of grapes, fruit-bearing trees and other plants. SLF are reproducing quickly in our area of south-eastern Pennsylvania, and Spotted Lanternflies have the potential to become a major threat to Pennsylvania’s agriculture and forestry industries.
The PA Department of Agriculture quarantine directs citizens and municipal authorities to follow guidelines to prevent the movement of SLF at any stage of development. These guidelines direct citizens to inspect all wood and vegetation that might leave the quarantined municipality. In addition, these guidelines direct citizens to inspect vehicles, trailers, and other mobile equipment prior to moving such equipment out of the quarantine.
Municipalities are encouraged to learn more about the Spotted Lanternfly, the quarantine, and available resources:
The Pennsylvania Association of Boroughs (PSAB) is a non-profit and non-partisan association, operated by the boroughs of the Commonwealth, to promote effective local government practices. PSAB represents the 958 boroughs that are home to more than 2.6 million residents in Pennsylvania. PSAB’s primary objectives are to provide legislative/regulatory representation at both the state and federal levels; to promote constructive and cooperative relationships among boroughs and between PSAB and other levels of government; to deliver training and technical assistance to borough officials; and to provide cost-effective programs and services.
Contact the Chester County Health Department at 610-344-6225 for guidance.