New lantern fly cases spark concern among Michigan fruit growers

USA – The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed the presence of the invasive pest in Wayne, Monroe, and Oakland counties, marking the first infestation in Wayne County.

The spotted lanternfly, a pest native to eastern Asia, feeds on over 70 types of plants, including vital crops like apples, grapes, and peaches.

Since being first detected in the U.S. in 2014, the insect has spread to 17 eastern and midwestern states, posing significant risks to agricultural industries.

“These surveying efforts are crucial in our attempt to slow the spread of the spotted lanternfly, which is a concern for fruit growers,” said Steve Carlson, director of MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division.

Carlson emphasized the importance of collecting data through targeted surveys to curb the pest’s impact.

In response to the infestations, MDARD has conducted an extensive survey in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to monitor the pest’s movement. The surveys are aimed at early detection to prevent further damage to Michigan’s fruit industry.

“MDARD’s proactive approach to gathering data is essential,” Carlson added, underscoring the importance of working with local and state partners to address the issue. The agency is urging growers to stay vigilant and report any signs of the pest.

The presence of the spotted lanternfly threatens some of Michigan’s most important fruit crops, including its apple and grape industries.

The pest feeds on plant sap, weakening crops and making them vulnerable to disease. Fruit growers are concerned that this new invasion could lead to significant losses if not managed properly.

In a related story, strawberry growers in the Southeast U.S.  are on high alert due to an outbreak of Neopestalotiopsis fruit rot, which is affecting nurseries and potentially disrupting the supply chain.

The disease is believed to have originated from infected strawberry tips from Prince Edward Island, leading some nurseries to cancel orders and warn producers about the risks.

“One of the major nurseries that provides tips sent out a letter on August 19, 2024, acknowledging the problem, and other nurseries are following suit,” said Phil Brannen, Professor in the Plant Pathology Department at the University of Georgia.

The situation has led to concerns about the availability of healthy plants for producers, with some growers advised to take plants at their own risk.

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