Crush the Pest: Learn about the Spotted Lanternfly on June 13

When: Tuesday, June 13 from 7 to 8 p.m. 

Where: This is a virtual lecture (but it’s interesting – we promise!)   

The Spotted Lanternfly has been discovered in parts of New Jersey including Cape May County and it is believed that this insect has the potential to greatly impact the grape, hop, small fruit, vegetable, and horticultural industries in Cape May County.  

The Agriculture and Natural Resources Department of Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County will host a virtual presentation on the Spotted Lanternfly on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, from 7 to 8 p.m. This free, one-hour informational class, is open to the public via Zoom. 

The presenter will be Jennifer Sawyer Caraballo, ANR County Program Associate for Commercial Agriculture for Cooperative Extension of Cape May County. Sawyer Caraballo will provide information on how to recognize the Spotted Lanternfly and what to do if you see it. The Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive planthopper, is native to China, India, Vietnam, and introduced to Korea where it has become a major pest. 

Claudia Gil Arroyo, County Agent III, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Cooperative Extension of Cape May County, said, “Early detection is necessary to protect agriculture in Cape May County and throughout New Jersey since the Spotted Lanternfly can be easily transported to other areas.” 

To register for this free virtual program, go to https://go.rutgers.edu/xir9cxuw. For more information, please contact us at 609-465-5115, ext. 3601.