Penn State Extension Offers Spotted Lanternfly Permit Training Workshop

Butler, Pa. – Penn State Extension, in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, will hold a live-streamed Spotted Lanternfly Permit Training workshop from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 25, at the Butler Township Park Building, 468S. Duffy Road, Butler, PA 16001.
Spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect from Asia that was discovered in Berks County in 2014. This pest has the potential to cause considerable damage to Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry.

To help contain the spread of the spotted lanternfly, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has identified a 14-county quarantine zone and is requiring businesses, agencies, and organizations that move vehicles, equipment, and goods within and out of the quarantined area to obtain a permit.

The Spotted Lanternfly Permit Training for Businesses is designed as a “train the trainer” course for designated employees. Once employees successfully pass the course exam, their companies will receive spotted lanternfly permits for company vehicles from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Employees then also will be responsible for training fellow employees to work in the quarantine zone without inadvertently spreading these insects and endangering agriculture and commerce.

There is no cost to register, and although it is not required, registration it is encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome, but registered participants will receive preference if location capacity is met. Registration is available online at https://extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly-permit-training-for-businesses or by calling 1-877-345-0691.