Committee member urges county coordination on rising spotted lanternfly sightings

During committee reports, a member raised persistent and increasing sightings of spotted lanternflies in Ithaca and asked what role the county should play in response, coordination and public education. The member said the insects pose potential economic and environmental risks to apple orchards and grape vineyards and asked whether advisory boards or county departments should lead coordination.

Committee colleagues suggested partners that could be contacted, including Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE), the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Soil & Water Conservation District. One member encouraged local outreach and practical steps: "In the spring you can put traps around the bases of trees..." Another member recounted personal observations: "I found 20 on a grapevine next to my house and I knocked them off and squished them." The committee agreed to follow up with partner boards and explore communication channels to inform farmers and residents.