A Penn State study has found that the spotted lanternfly is costing Pennsylvania’s economy around $50 million and eliminating close to 500 jobs each year, writes Michael Rubinkam for The Washington Post.

The study is the first attempt by researchers to quantify the damage caused by the invasive pest from Asia that was first detected in the country in 2014 in nearby Berks County.

Economists from Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences estimated the monetary impact on industries most vulnerable to spotted lanternflies. These include nurseries, vineyards, and hardwood producers, among others.

It was determined that in southeastern Pennsylvania, which has been hit the hardest, the large plant hopper is causing $29 million in direct costs to growers and forest landowners. An additional $21 million in losses comes from secondary costs, including reduced business and household spending.

The research estimated that the insect could cause $325 million in damage and eliminate 2,800 jobs if it spread statewide. The forest products industry is especially vulnerable.

“This is a call to arms,” said Jay Harper, the study’s co-author.

Read more about the spotted lanternfly in The Washington Post here.

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