Blumenthal proposes bill to stop spread of spotted lanternfly in Connecticut

HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) - U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal is proposing the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, a bill that would provide federal funding for research and mitigation projects to control and stop the spread of the invasive species.

The spotted lanternfly has been in Connecticut for about six years. Experts said the invasive insect is known for destroying crops and trees.

What experts are seeing on the ground

At the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, entomologist Dr. Gale Ridge said reports of the pest have become a constant presence in her office.

“Currently, every other call we have in our insect information office is to do with the spotted lanternfly,” Ridge said. “It was a realization that we had some work on our hands.”

Reports of spotted lanternflies have been coming from all corners of Connecticut, though larger populations are concentrated along the shoreline. Sightings are expected to increase as the insects — currently in the nymph stage — begin their adult life cycles later in the summer.

The spotted lanternfly does not spread primarily by flying. The insects are hoppers that hitchhike on vehicles and other objects.

What’s happening in Connecticut communities

In Newington, officials put the public on notice after two saplings along Route 91 were removed because of the pest. Town leaders encouraged residents to report sightings and remove trees where the insects are commonly found.

Ridge said the spotted lanternfly population will not begin to shrink until natural predators start to keep them in check. In the meantime, she said residents are the best line of defense.

“If you see a spotted lanternfly, dispatch it,” Ridge said.

See Digital Content Creator Anna Bonelli’s report below: