The invasive pest threatening US crops, forests, and agriculture across 17 states
First detected in Pennsylvania in 2014, it has spread to 17 states. The USDA estimates $554 million in annual agricultural losses.
Lanternflies feed on grapes, apples, hops, peaches, and 70+ plant species. Honeydew excretions cause black sooty mold, devastating orchards.
Check vehicles before traveling. Scrape egg masses. Report sightings. States have quarantine zones. Biological control with Asian wasps is being tested.
Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is the primary host. It grows in roadsides and forests across the East Coast.
Warmer winters allow more eggs to survive. Scientists project expansion into the Midwest and South as temperatures rise with climate change.
If you see a spotted lanternfly, report it to your state agriculture department immediately. Every sighting helps protect American farms and forests.
Every one of the 63 US National Parks now shows measurable climate change impacts.
325 million annual national park visits generate $42B in economic activity for gateway communities.
13% of park wildlife now faces extinction risk.
One in four US national parks recorded its worst wildfire year in 2026.