Spotted Lanterfly Forum In Montco: How To Prevent, Destroy

SOUDERTON, PA — A upcoming forum in Souderton will address how to prevent and destroy the devastating spotted lanternfly.

The nonnative and invasive bug has wreaked economic and ecological havoc over the past several years, as populations of the destructive species have blossomed.

The forum, to be held at Dock Mennonite Academy on July 22, will bring together a panel of experts to discuss the threat.

The bug threatens Pennsylvania's $20.5 million grape industry, $134 million apple industry, $24 million stone fruit industry, and $12 billion hardwood industry, agriculture officials said.

Nymph and adult spotted lanternflies cause extensive damage when they feed, sucking sap from stems and leaves and causing the plant to ooze and weep. Not only does the plant die but the "fermented odor" caused by the feeding, along with the fluid excreted by the insects themselves, promotes mold growth and draws even more insects, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Montgomery County is in a quarantine area, along with much of the region, aimed to slow the spread of the bug.

The forum begins at 6 p.m. and runs through 8:30 p.m. Dock Mennonite is located on 420 Godshall Road in Souderton.