SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — The California wine industry is facing a new threat. Spotted lanternfly eggs, from an invasive insect known for devastating vineyards, have been discovered in the state.
This has put wineries across San Diego County on high alert.
“If the lanternfly comes into the area, it would have devastating effects on growers throughout the state, especially since they lack tools to deal with it,” said Ed Embly, co-owner of Hungry Hawk Vineyard and Winery. As per to the source cbs8
Embly and his wife are particularly vigilant, as the lanternfly is notorious for its destruction of grapevines.
Originally from Asia, the spotted lanternfly has plagued the East Coast for years. Recently, its eggs were found on an art installation bound for California’s wine country.
“The worst damage occurs when the grapes are ripe,” Embly explained. Grapes are harvested from July through October, and most effective insecticides can’t be used within a month of harvest, making the timing of this threat particularly troubling.
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The red and black spotted bugs feed on a variety of plants but have a preference for grapevines. Given that California produces more than 80 percent of the wine in the U.S., the potential impact is immense.
These bugs could decimate wine crops, leading to significant price increases.
State officials are urging the public to be vigilant. The egg masses resemble a light grayish splotch of mud. If spotted, they should be reported to the California Department of Food and Agriculture immediately.
Local wineries and their patrons are hopeful that the lanternfly can be stopped before it causes significant damage.
As the situation develops, the wine community remains on edge, bracing for the possible arrival of this invasive pest and its potentially devastating consequences.