Photo: Adobestock | ondreicka
SPRINGFIELD, IL - The Illinois Department of Agriculture has confirmed the first detection of spotted lanternfly (Lycorma deliculata) in Illinois. Following a report of a live adult on Sept. 16, state, federal, and local officials coordinated a site visit near the area of the report and identified a moderately populated area of spotted lanternfly (SLF) on Sept. 18. Specimens were collected and submitted for identification, and confirmatory results were received on September 26. The spotted lanternfly does not present any human or animal health concerns.
"If there is a silver lining associated with spotted lantern fly in Illinois, it is that we have no reason to believe that widespread plant or tree death will result from its presence," said Scott Schirmer, Illinois Department of Agriculture's Nursery and Northern Field Office Section Manager. "This is likely going to be a nuisance pest that interferes with our ability to enjoy outdoor spaces and may have some impact on the agritourism industry, including orchards, pumpkin patches, and vineyards."
"Spotted lanternfly has been inching closer to the Midwest and Illinois for close to a decade," said Jerry Costello II, Illinois Department of Agriculture Director. "We have had a multi-agency team working to prepare for this scenario - including efforts on readiness, informing and educating the industry and the public, as well as monitoring early detection." - Source: Illinois.gov