Erie has been a top priority for the Department of Agriculture all along, Powers said.

The threat of lanternfly destruction in grape country comes when agritourism at vineyards is booming in Erie and elsewhere. Additionally, Pennsylvania in 2023 moved from the fifth- to the fourth-largest wine and grape producer in the country, according to Powers.

"It's a critical time," she said. "Wine and grapes as a product is so huge now, and it's growing and having the lanternfly threat at the same time."

Powers urges residents to check their boat trailers, boats, outdoor furniture and campers for egg masses, especially if they are traveling to Erie.

"The primary focus and the concern now is how to help the grape growers weather the storm," Walsh said.

Funding for lanternfly control in the proposed 2024-25 fiscal year budget includes at least $3 million from the Agriculture's rapid response disaster fund, plus other funding sources, Powers said.

Since the lanternfly hitches rides on vehicles, commercial drivers operating in quarantined counties like Allegheny are required to remove the bugs and their eggs before cross-county travel and have an anti-spotted lanternfly plan.

The quarantine prohibits moving lanternflies at any stage of life via vehicle, trailers and infested items like firewood, brush and other debris.

Residents are encouraged to report lanternfly sightings, along with photos, online or by calling 1-888-4BAD-FLY (1-888-422-3359).

Preparing for this year's invasion

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