Protecting Our Forests: USDA Calls for Action Against Invasive Pests

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued an urgent call to action for residents to be on the lookout for spongy masses growing outdoors. These masses, which are the eggs of the spotted lanternfly and spongy moth, pose a significant threat to the health and economic viability of our forests. As a company dedicated to responsible forestry and land management, Carolina Forestry & Realty is committed to spreading awareness about this issue and encouraging our clients and community to take action.

The Threat of Invasive Pests

Invasive insects and plant diseases, such as the spotted lanternfly and spongy moth, are a major problem for our nation’s forests and agricultural systems. According to the USDA, these pests cost the U.S. an estimated $40 billion each year in damages to crops, trees, and other plants. The spotted lanternfly and spongy moth, in particular, are known for their ability to hitchhike on vehicles and outdoor items, allowing them to spread rapidly to new areas.

Identifying the Egg Masses

To effectively combat these pests, it’s crucial to know what their egg masses look like. Spotted lanternfly egg masses are flat and mud-like, while spongy moth egg masses are fuzzy, spongy, and cream or brown-colored. These masses can be found on a variety of outdoor surfaces, including tree bark, cars, and outdoor furniture, especially during late fall, winter, and early spring.

Taking Action: “Smash and Scrape”

If you find these egg masses on your property or belongings, the USDA recommends a simple but effective method for destroying them: “smash and scrape.” Crush the masses and scrape them into a plastic bag, seal it, and dispose of it in the trash. Pressure washing is also an effective way to remove the masses from hard, outdoor surfaces. By taking these steps, you can prevent the eggs from hatching in the spring and spreading to new areas.

In addition to destroying egg masses, there are several other steps you can take to prevent the spread of these invasive pests:

1. Review guidance from your state’s agriculture department if you live in a quarantine area for either pest.
2. Check vehicles and belongings for pests if you are passing through or leaving a quarantine area.
3. Inspect outdoor furniture, recreational vehicles, and camping equipment for egg masses before moving them.
4. Avoid transporting untreated firewood to new locations, as it can easily introduce invasive pests. Instead, buy certified, heat-treated firewood or source it locally.
5. If you live in an area where these pests are not yet established and spot one, report the sighting to your state’s department of agriculture.

More Important Than You Think

At Carolina Forestry & Realty, we understand the vital importance of protecting our forests from invasive pests like the spotted lanternfly and spongy moth. As stewards of the land, it’s our responsibility to stay informed about these threats and take action to prevent their spread. We encourage all of our clients and neighbors to join us in this effort by staying vigilant, destroying egg masses, and following the guidelines set forth by the USDA. Together, we can help preserve the health and beauty of our nation’s forests for generations to come.