State agriculture officials have confirmed the presence of spotted lanternfly in the Finger Lakes region, a concerning development for local grape growers.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets identified the invasive pest in Romulus, New York, following reports from Cornell’s New York State Integrated Pest Management Program (NYS IPM). This detection represents the first known instance of spotted lanternfly near commercial vineyards in the area.

Spotted lanternfly is characterized by its ability to feed on more than 100 plant species, including grapevine and apple trees. It poses both economic and ecological threats, as its feeding habits weaken plants, making them susceptible to diseases and other pests.

“We are very worried about this spotted lanternfly finding so close to our vineyards,” said David Pittard, owner of Buttonwood Grove and 680 Cellars in Romulus. “We have already been in contact and are working with teams at Cornell to discuss options for scouting, trapping and mitigation if necessary. These insects are no joke and we are taking this situation very seriously.” 

Since its initial detection in New York City in 2020, spotted lanternfly has gradually spread throughout the state, already affecting Long Island, western New York and the Hudson Valley. In response to its arrival in the Finger Lakes, the Department of Agriculture and Markets and Cornell are intensifying efforts to educate the public about the pest and its potential impact.

“While the appearance of spotted lanternfly in the Finger Lakes is concerning, we have access to extensive resources, which will help us provide growers with the best possible information on managing and minimizing effects,” said Hans Walter-Peterson, senior viticulture extension specialist at Cornell Cooperative Extension

These resources include Pennsylvania State University and Cornell – including NYS IPM – as well as other organizations.

“We became aware that spotted lanternfly would likely reach this area about three years ago when the vineyards in Pennsylvania were under real serious stress,” said Bruce Murray, who owns Boundary Breaks Vineyard in Lodi, New York. “The good news is CCE is very much on the case. Hans Walter-Peterson has connections to colleagues with experience in managing spotted lanternfly. And he knows the most specific treatments that are most effective and efficient.

“Part of the reason we trust that is because Hans has been in his role for a long time, he knows the grape industry and he knows us. We trust CCE to help get us through this,” Murray said. 

Early detection and reporting are critical, said Brian Eshenaur, senior extension associate at NYS IPM.

“I encourage everyone to remain vigilant for spotted lanternfly and report any sightings,” Eshenaur said. “Early detection is crucial as it allows producers in the area to prepare for managing this new invasive species.”

“We are optimistic that through education, a number of control methods, and with the public’s help, we will be able to manage spotted lanternfly and mitigate the impact to the grape growing industry,” said State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball.

While a comprehensive survey in Romulus and surrounding areas is conducted, the Department of Agriculture and Markets is urging residents and visitors to inspect vehicles and outdoor items for spotted lanternfly and destroy any adult spotted lanternfly they find and report the sighting to the department. 

“Although this isn’t welcome news, we will still have grapes and we will have wine from the Finger Lakes despite the presence of this new pest,” Walter-Peterson said. “This is just another hurdle we have to figure out how to deal with. I am confident that the Finger Lakes will remain a world-class grape and wine region.”

For more information on identifying and managing spotted lanternfly, residents are encouraged to visit Cornell’s Integrated Pest Management website.

Melissa Jo Hill is a writer at Cornell Cooperative Extension.