Enhance early detection and rapid response to the presence and incidence of spotted lanternfly along high-risk pathways in tennessee

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) awarded a cooperative agreement valued at $135,422 to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Industries, effective July 17, 2025, through July 16, 2026, under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025). The agreement funds a statewide initiative to enhance early detection and rapid response to Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) infestations in Tennessee, addressing this economically injurious pest threat to state agriculture.

The Department of Agriculture will deliver targeted surveillance and management activities including: (1) statewide visual surveys and trapping operations at high-risk sites and areas with preferred host plants to identify and respond quickly to minor infestations; (2) targeted treatments at critical points in the pest's life cycle to prevent rapid spread within Tennessee or to neighboring states; and (3) outreach and education activities directed at businesses and the general public to raise awareness of identification methods, reporting procedures, and best practices for preventing pest spread. No subrecipient activities have been identified at the time of award. These deliverables are intended to benefit the state's agricultural stakeholders, producers, and the general public through pest eradication, containment, and prevention of economic losses to infested areas.

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to enhance early detection and rapid response to the presence and incidence of spotted lanternfly along high-risk pathways in tennessee. By conducting a statewide visual and trapping survey, this project focuses on a proactive approach to recognizing early populations of spotted lanternfly to reduce its spread and impact. Project will also provide support for control/containment of spotted lanternfly (lycorma delicatula, SLF) within tennessee.

Activities

Tennessee department of agriculture (TDA) will conduct the following activites during the performance period: 1) targeted treatments at critical points in spotted lanternfly's life cycle, 2) early detection surveys outside the known infestation areas focusing on high risk sites, and 3) outreach to businesses and the general public to encourage the reporting of SLF. Deliverables and expected outcomes: state-wide visual surveys for SLF and their preferred hosts at high-risk areas will increase opportunities to identify and respond quicky to minor SLF infestations and eradicate small populations. Outreach and education activities will raise awareness of the threat, how to identify and report suspect SLF to TDA, and best practices to prevent the spread of this pest. Treatment/management of known populations of SLF to prevent rapid spread within tennessee or to other states resulting in positive outcomes for businesses located within infested areas. Intended beneficiary(IES): the state's agriculture stakeholders, including producers and members of the public. Subrecipient activities, if known or specified at the time of award: none