Research Reports

The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive insect species that is currently having a destructive impact on vulnerable agricultural crops and tree species within Pennsylvania. The analysis considers several scenarios, which vary based on geographic scope and the estimated potential severity of damages. To calculate the direct impacts of SLF on Pennsylvania agriculture, the researchers used data from the 2017 census of Agriculture and a survey of crop production experts. Best management practices (BMPs) developed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for SLF seek to slow the spread of SLF populations. Implementation of certain (BMPs) represent one-time costs like those for training and permitting, and others like ailanthus eradication, will have costs that will likely decline over time. Others, like inspection and phytosanitation, will continue for a long time. The use of these types of practices is necessary to provide the time needed to develop effective SLF management practices.