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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OAK SPRING GARDEN FOUNDATION TAKES ACTION AGAINST INVASIVE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY IN FAUQUIER COUNTY
UPPERVILLE, Va., Sept. 24, 2023 – The Oak Spring Garden Foundation (OSGF) recently announced the discovery of the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) on its 700-acre campus, confirming the pest’s presence in Fauquier County, Virginia. Left uncontrolled, this invasive species poses a significant threat to the local ecosystem, ornamental plantings, and the region’s burgeoning viticultural industry.
In response to this troubling development, OSGF is mobilizing its efforts, working closely with regional agricultural agencies, community organizations, and local partners like the Clifton Institute and Piedmont Environmental Council. Together, they aim to implement effective control measures. Additionally, it will host a management workshop on October 21, 2023, where local residents can learn how to mitigate further infestation.
“The best strategy for pest management is always prevention,” emphasized OSGF’s staff entomologist, Dr. Ren Martins. “Now that they’re in our backyard, we need to focus on education. Our goal is to equip Fauquier residents with the knowledge, tools, and techniques needed to prevent the wider spread of this species.”
Native to China and southeastern Asia, Spotted Lanternflies were first detected in the U.S. in 2014. While the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources announced their arrival in the Commonwealth in 2018, they had largely remained isolated to counties west of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Distinguished by their vivid red wings and distinctive black spots, these insects are primarily found on Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). However, they also feed on a variety of fruit trees, ornamental plants, and grapevines, raising concerns about the potential damage to Virginia’s Piedmont landscapes and vineyards.
“We have always been deeply committed to preserving of our region’s unique landscapes,” said OSGF President Sir Peter Crane. “As upsetting as news like this is, the silver lining is that we are part of a community that shares our concerns. By collaborating with organizations like the Clifton Institute and Piedmont Environmental Council, as well as with motivated citizens, we can safeguard the diverse and vital plant life that makes our landscapes so special.”
To learn more about Spotted Lanternfly identification and management, and to register for OSGF’s upcoming management workshop, please visit www.osgf.org.
About the Oak Spring Garden Foundation
The Oak Spring Garden Foundation is a non-profit organization that works to foster a shared understanding and appreciation of plants, gardens, landscapes, and the natural world. Through various programs, research initiatives, and educational outreach, OSGF aims to advance the knowledge and stewardship of horticulture, agriculture, and conservation. Learn more about the Oak Spring Garden Foundation at www.osgf.org.
Media Contact:
Max Smith
Head of Communications
Oak Spring Garden Foundation
540-592-3038
www.osgf.org
Disclaimer: This piece of writing was created for a graduate level writing course and is not meant to be published nor to represent the organization(s) listed herein.