Trucking companies operating in and out of the southeast corner of Pennsylvania will need to

comply with the state’s designation of a 13-county agricultural quarantine zone. The area includes

Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Allentown, and major freight lanes along Interstates 76, 78, 81, 83, and

95. The culprit is the spotted lanternfly, a Southeast Asia species discovered first in 2014 and

now spreading. It is highly destructive to hardwoods and various fruit trees. Carriers that pick up

and deliver freight in the quarantine zone must have a manager take an online course from the

state’s department of agriculture. The manager will then train the drivers, dispatchers, and other

personnel on the required procedures and will obtain permits to be put onboard all trucks in the

affected area. Drivers must also possess records of inspection activities, such as vehicle washes.

Trucks driving through the area and not making freight stops do not have to register.

Enforcement of the permit requirements by state officials will begin on May 1.

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