Early Detection and Management of Spotted Lanternfly in the Hudson Valley

  • Date: June 15 -  August 15, 2023
  • Location: CCE Ulster, Sullivan and Orange Counties
  • Faculty sponsor: Alejandro Calixto, NYS Integrated Pest Management
  • Campus-based mentor/supervisor: Brian Eshenaur
  • Field mentor/supervisor: Christian Malsatzki
  • Stipend: $6,000
An adult spotted lanternfly sitting on a branch
An adult spotted lanternfly. Photo by Alejandro Calixto/Provided

This project supports the ongoing extension and research efforts in early detection, rapid response, and management of the Spotted lanternfly (SLF) in vineyards and urban areas in the Hudson Valley. Extension efforts include developing programs to train Spanish-speaking farm employees on SLF identification who will likely encounter this invasive and to help early detection efforts lead by federal, state, and county agencies. Research efforts include conducting small laboratory bioassays in the Hudson Valley Research Lab (HVRL) to screen for the efficacy of different biological products on the various life stages of SLF.

Roles and responsibilities 

The student will participate in extension and applied research efforts, including scouting in vineyards, evaluating different biological options to mitigate the impact of SLF, and participating in outreach and education efforts targeting grape growers and Spanish-speaking farm employees in the region.

Qualifications and previous coursework

This opportunity is available to non-graduating students in Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Must be able to work outdoors for long periods of time, must be able to travel to different locations in the area Preferred coursework: Invertebrate Zoology, Entomology, Ecology, Agronomy Keen interest in basic IPM principles, entomology and invasive species Not required but bilingual students (English-Spanish) would be a plus

Learning outcomes 

Understanding of Cooperative Extension work and basic IPM principles  Application of scouting and early detection protocols to help protect local vineyards Increase familiarity local fruit and vineyard crop production systems. Learning basic concept of experimental design and data collection Understanding of the risks of invasive species in specialty crops Understanding that underserved communities play an important role for effective and sustainable IPM practices including early detection of invasive species