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

The Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Industries, $135,000 through Cooperative Agreement AP26PPQFO000C128 on July 17, 2026, to enhance early detection and rapid response to spotted lanternfly infestations along high-risk pathways in Tennessee.

The recipient will conduct statewide visual surveys and trapping at high-risk sites to identify spotted lanternfly populations outside known infestation areas, perform targeted treatments at critical points in the pest's life cycle, and execute outreach activities to encourage reporting by businesses and the public. Deliverables include identification and eradication of minor infestations, increased public awareness of identification and prevention practices, and management of known populations to prevent spread within Tennessee or to other states. The agreement benefits the state's agriculture stakeholders, including producers and the general public.

Performance runs through July 16, 2027, with place of performance in Tennessee. Cost categories include personnel ($52,500 for one forestry aid position), fringe benefits ($15,750), travel ($11,416), and supplies ($55,334). No sub-recipients are identified.

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

TE nnessee 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. Large cost categories: personnel: 1 forestry aid @3500 HRS @$15/HR = $52,500. Fringe benefits: 30% of personnel = $15,750. Travel: mileage, perdiem, conference registration = $11,416. Supplies= $55,334