Franklin Conservation Department Reminds Residents to Watch for Spotted Lanternfly

Franklin Conservation Department Reminds
Residents to Watch for Spotted Lanternfly

The Franklin Conservation Department is reminding residents to remain vigilant for the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF), as egg masses have begun hatching across Massachusetts. Franklin is among the communities in the Commonwealth with known infestations of the species.

According to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), tiny black SLF nymphs are now active in some parts of the state, with hatch expected to continue over the next several weeks depending on weather conditions. Residents are encouraged to inspect outdoor surfaces on their property for unhatched egg masses and scrape and crush them when found to help reduce the spread of the invasive pest.

MDAR has provided several helpful resources for residents, including animated educational videos, a Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide available in 12 languages, and a statewide infestation map.

Additional information and resources are available through the MDAR Spotted Lanternfly webpage.