Brian Eshenaur

Sr. Extension Associate, Invasive Species Management

Brian Eshenaur, associate director of New York State Integrated Pest Management at Cornell University, is available to discuss the development and what it means for vineyards.

Eshenaur says:

 

“The most important thing for residents and business owners to recognize is that spotted lanternflies (SLF) are not dangerous to humans. They don’t sting or bite and cannot survive indoors. Our neighbors in Pennsylvania have been dealing with populations of spotted lanternfly for more than a decade, and their experience has helped to prepare us for how to respond to populations here in the Finger Lakes.

 

“Fortunately, we have had time to prepare so our growers will be provided with the information they need to manage SLF. Although this isn’t welcome news, I am confident that the Finger Lakes grape growers will continue to produce outstanding harvests even in the presence of this new pest.”