In a recent article by Michaela Bourgeois titled “Oregon Dept. of Agriculture warns of possible spotted lanternfly sighting in Portland” (KOIN, May 22, 2025), the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) reported a sighting of the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF) in Portland’s Colonel Summers Park. The sighting was submitted via the iNaturalist platform, prompting ODA and the USDA to conduct surveys and install monitoring traps in the area. Despite these efforts, no physical evidence of SLF was found, and the sighting remains unconfirmed.
Although no established SLF populations have been documented in Oregon, ODA has intercepted dead adults and a live egg mass on equipment imported from out-of-state, underscoring the ongoing risk of introduction. The spotted lanternfly poses serious ecological and economic threats, particularly to Oregon’s grapevine and nursery industries. SLF is currently known to be established in 18 states, mainly across the Midwest and East Coast.
The ODA continues to monitor the situation and encourages the public to report any suspected sightings to the Oregon Invasive Species Hotline.
See the article here: https://www.koin.com/news/portland/oregon-dept-of-agriculture-warns-of-possible-spotted-lanternfly-sighting-in-portland/
Sonoma County Pest Control District Coalition 