DEM to treat targeted sections of RI for lanternflies

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has announced that they will continue treating pockets of spotted lanternfly infestations that have been found in Lincoln, Smithfield, North Providence, Providence and Pawtucket.

DEM said they will spray with insecticide starting on Wednesday, July 31.

These treatments, targeted for trees and bushes infested with spotted lanternflies, are EPA-approved pesticides Bifenthrin and Dinotefuran to limit the spread of this destructive pest.

According to a release, spraying for lantern fly’s started in 2022 in Rhode Island.

Spraying are continuing to be targeted in transportation areas, highly impacted areas, areas of movement, parks, and areas that are closer to agricultural areas.