CONGRESSMAN MORELLE TAKES ACTION TO PROTECT NEW YORK’S AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY FROM INVASIVE SPECIES

(Washington, D.C) – Today, Congressman Joe Morelle called on U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Administration Kevin Shea to take action in addressing the presence of the Spotted Lantern Fly (SLF), an invasive species that can wreak havoc on New York's agricultural economy.

"I am deeply concerned by the rate at which this invasive population is spreading across the state, as well as the catastrophic impact it will have on New York agriculture if not contained," wrote Congressman Morelle. "The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets estimates that the state produces about 30 million bushels of apples each year and that the annual harvest of grapes in New York is valued at $52.8 million. Given these extraordinary numbers, the establishment of this invasive species in New York will clearly have a devasting economic impact on the Finger Lakes region and throughout upstate New York."

The USDA had previously committed $17.5 million to contain the spread of an SLF infestation in Pennsylvania in 2018. However, the SLF has continued to spread despite these mitigation efforts. What's more, the Administration has proposed to cut funding for the National Invasive Species Council, calling into question the agency's commitment to truly solving this looming concern New York farmers are facing.

The full letter is attached.

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