Attention gardeners: a warning from the NYSDEC

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is asking you to keep a look out for an unwanted pest that could invade our area.

It’s called the spotted lanternfly.

According to officials, it's considered a destructive, invasive pest and has the potential to cause major damage to important crops like apples, grapes, and hops.

If you think you spotted one, you're asked to email the D.E.C. at spottedlanternfly@dec.ny.gov. 

Photo courtesy: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture