New Yorkers across the state have been dealing with spotted lanternflies all summer long, and experts from the state and Cornell University came to the Bronx to speak with residents about the problem.  

State officials say they’re receiving an average of 1,000 weekly calls from New York City residents and residents all the way up to Albany.  

The spotted lanternfly is categorized as an invasive species. Experts say they could cost New York $300 million annually in damages to agriculture, specifically for the grape and wine industry.  

“We all encourage the public to conduct outdoor inspections of outdoor equipment,” said Justin Perry, of the New York state Department of Environmental Conservation. Perry and other environmentalists warn that cars, camping gear and other outdoor items are prime places for the lanternflies to latch onto and lay eggs.  

Lanternflies are also prone to infesting yards, and experts from Cornell say that there are ways to combat them at home. 

“Having some screen around there… screen you can buy at just a hardware, home store,” said Brian Eshenaur, member of New York State Integrated Pest Management at Cornell.  

As the peak of lanternfly season continues into the fall, the state is encouraging people to step on the flies or make those screen traps to reduce the population.