Virginia lifts failed quarantine for spotted lanternfly

Efforts to quarantine spotted lanternflies in Virginia have been deemed ineffective.

The state’s Department of Agriculture repealed the quarantine last month after efforts to slow the pest failed. The quarantine was established back in 2019 when the pest was first detected in Frederick County.

Sixty-seven Virginia localities now face the pest which feeds on grapes, hops, stone fruits, and hardwood trees.

Spotted lanternflies have also been found in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, and Connecticut.

Related Stories
An economist says U.S. ag exports could fall next year due to several factors.
According to the latest Cattle on Feed report, drought brought placement numbers lower.
Experts predict consumers will pay nearly double the price per pound for certain types of turkey than the average cost just five years ago.