spotted lanternfly

The spotted lanternflies have taken over New Jersey and they're not going anywhere unless you help.

These things are a real problem and you’re urged to kill them to protect our environment. Here are a few ways to get it done.

The best example of lanternfly media is a new app called “Squishr.”

"They're just on a roll. They're going to continue to populate and flourish and move onward into new territories," said New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas Fisher.

The spotted lanternfly is dreaded by farmers and many others across the Garden State.

I’ve stomped a few at home. I squished a few to death at work. What I didn’t do is report it. I didn’t realize I was supposed to.

One novel appeal the county is making to locals is to stop buying, and stop supporting organizations that sell, exotic or non-native plants.

"The populations are definitely increasing across the state," an expert says.

The colder weather will kill off any adult lanternflies bugging New Jersey right now, but come spring, the destructive pest is predicted to continue its spread throughout the state.

"We are targeting areas where severe infestations have been confirmed, and we also encourage residents to destroy the Spotted Lanternfly if possible when they see it," said New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher.