If you come across any of these bugs in New York, the DEC is still asking that you stomp on them, but has changed part of its “See it. Report it. Stomp it” campaign.

Earlier this year, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) launched a new campaign, urging all New Yorkers to help prevent the spread of the invasive spotted lanternfly.

Spotted Lanternfly in New York

CJSpotted Lanternfly Problems in New York

At one time or another, most New Yorkers have come across a spotted lanternfly (above) in the last few months. Some residents living in Dutchess, Ulster, Orange, and Sullivan counties have reported seeing more than just a few of the invasive insects flying around.

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Regardless of the number of insects you encounter, the DEC is reminding everyone that they remain a significant problem and is seeking the public’s help in stopping their spread.

“See it. Report it. Stomp it.” in New York

Back in July, we told you about the “See it. Report it. Stomp it.” campaign informing all New Yorkers about the dangers involving spotted lanternflies (SLF) and how they can negatively affect agricultural and tourism across New York.

At the time, the DEC asked the public to inspect outdoor items such as firewood, vehicles, and furniture, and report any and all sightings of the insects. Once that was done, they asked you to kill the insect by stomping on it.

New York Counties No Longer Need to Report Spotted Lanternfly Sightings

The NYSDEC is still asking all New York residents who see the insect to kill it by stepping on it or crushing it, but is no longer asking people to report the sightings in the following counties:

DutchessNassauNew York City countiesOrangePutnamRocklandSuffolk – except for North ForkSullivanUlsterWestchester

Each female SLF insect eliminated can reduce next year’s population by 60-100 insects, according to the NYSDEC.

Report Spotted Lanternflies in New York

CJ/CanvaReport Spotted Lanternfly Sightings in Select New York Counties

If you live OUTSIDE of the counties listed above, and see a SLF, the DEC is asking that you report it immediately by following these steps:

Take a photo.Collect a sample and place it in a freezer or in a jar with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer.Contact the SLF responders by emailing spottedlanternfly@agriculture.ny.gov

After placing the report for your area, you should kill any additional SLF. Find more information about SLF online here.

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