State Rep. Gary Day (R-Lehigh/Berks) is inviting local residents to join him Thursday, Aug. 8, at the Good Will Fire Company No. 1 in Trexlertown for a seminar about the spotted lanternfly and how it could affect them.

“The spotted lanternfly can harm crops, which can affect the quality and price of food for local residents,” Day said. “This problem affects farmers, but it also has the potential to affect the broader community.”

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive planthopper native to China, India and Vietnam.

It was first discovered in Pennsylvania in Berks County and has spread to other counties in the Commonwealth. The insect has the potential to greatly impact agricultural crops such as grapes, hops and hardwoods. It also is reducing the quality of life for people living in heavily infested areas.

Day will be joined by staff from the Penn State Extension at the seminar. They will provide information about steps the state government is taking to address the issue as well as what residents can do to combat the problem.

“We want people to have the information they need in order to make good decisions that help reduce the problem,” Day said.

Seating at the seminar is limited. Reservations are required. Those who wish to attend can RSVP by calling Day’s New Tripoli office at 610-760-7082 or by registering on his website under the “events” tab at www.RepGaryDay.com.

Good Will Fire Company No. 1 is located at 7723 Hamilton Blvd. in Trexlertown.

Residents can follow Day on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RepGaryDay to learn more bout this and future upcoming events in the 187th Legislative District.