Spotted lanternfly participatory science project

The Terrestrial Invasive Species Participatory Science (TIPS) program invites volunteers in Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Olmsted, Wabasha and Winona counties to help us survey for spotted lanternfly and its host plants.

Trees and crops at risk

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect which primarily uses tree of heaven and grapes as host plants. Tree of heaven is not widely present in Minnesota, and it is possible that spotted lanternfly would not thrive in Minnesota without this important host.

Outside of its native range, spotted lanternfly has been recorded attacking 65 different species; many of these same genera occur in Minnesota, including apple, grape, willow, oak, walnut, silver maple, common lilac, poplar, eastern white pine, and rose. If spotted lanternfly did become established in Minnesota, it could impact grape, apple and nursery production.

How you can help

Visit our project website to learn how to identify spotted lanternfly and its host plants, how and where to survey for the presence of these species, and how to report your findings.