LAWRENCE COUNTY, Pa. - The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has added Lawrence County to Pennsylvania's spotted lanternfly quarantine zone in wake of the spring 2023 hatching season.

Now, both Mercer and Lawrence Counties are among the 51 counties part of the quarantine zone. 

Department of Agriculture Secretary, Russell Redding said in a news release that through collective efforts such as implementing these quarantine zones, the commonwealth continues to slow the spread of these insects.

"This time of year, before the eggs hatch in spring, do your part to help manage the pest by scraping egg masses and reporting where they are found. Each egg mass destroyed eliminates 30-50 lanternflies before they have the opportunity to hatch and spread," Redding said.

In addition, the department announced on Friday opportunities for funding to help counties slow the spread of the lanternfly. Through the PA Farm Bill's Rapid Response and Disaster Preparedness Fund, $150,000 will be available for grants for county conservation districts.

The department will award grants of up to $25,000 to assist conservation districts with activities designed to enhance spotted lanternfly quarantine compliance by businesses and residents.

Application for these grants opens March 5 and lasts until April 7 at 5:00 p.m.