Devastating Pest Appears In MetroWest For The First Time

SUDBURY, MA — For the first time, a spotted lanternfly sighting has been confirmed in MetroWest.

The Sudbury Conservation Commission confirmed the sighting on July 1. Although the lanternfly has been seen in the area, it has not established an infestation here — Shrewsbury and Fitchburg are still the only two communities in Massachusetts with a confirmed infestation, according to the state Department of Agricultural resources.

"These repeated finds do, however, demonstrate the continued risk of this pest becoming established in Massachusetts. Because of this, we are asking for your continued diligence and to encourage you to report any finds," the Sudbury Conservation Commission said in a bulletin.

Outside Sudbury, the lanternfly has been seen in Milford, Northborough, Concord and Norwood.

Spotted lantern flies, originally from Asia, have been moving into the U.S. in recent years, feasting on native plants, trees and crops in the process. In Pennsylvania, officials estimate the pest could cost the agriculture industry some $325 million.

The invasive pests sometimes find their way into homes and gardens through plants and shrubs sold at local nurseries, according to the Westborough Conservation Commission.

If you've seen a spotted lanternfly, you can report it to state officials here.