Last Dates for Scrape for the Grape are April 11 & 12

A coalition of Loudoun County organizations has launched its most ambitious “Scrape for the Grape” campaign yet, rallying volunteers across the region to combat the destructive spotted lanternfly and protect local vineyards, fruit trees and crops.

The annual initiative, now in its third year, continues to expand in scale and community participation. Organizers say the effort reflects growing public awareness of the invasive insect and its threat to Loudoun’s agricultural economy and environment.

This year’s campaign featured three volunteer events held at wineries, parks and residential communities throughout the county, concluding with a final days of volunteer activity on April 11 and 12. Participants were trained to identify and remove spotted lanternfly egg masses — a simple act that can prevent dozens of insects from hatching and feeding on plant sap later in the season.

Since the program began, nearly 1,200 volunteers have helped prevent an estimated 9 million Spotted Lanternflies from emerging, according to organizers.

“Many of our volunteers have already experienced firsthand how rewarding and impactful this effort can be,” said Tom Kercheval, Executive Director of Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy. “We’re so proud to join as an official partner and help engage even more residents in protecting Loudoun’s agricultural heritage.”

The campaign is a partnership among Visit Loudoun, the Loudoun Invasive Removal Alliance (LIRA), Loudoun County, Virginia Cooperative Extension of Loudoun County, and the Loudoun Wineries & Winegrowers Association. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy joined as a partner this year, helping expand outreach and volunteer engagement, while Amazon returned as a sponsor.

“Loudoun’s vineyards are not only a source of economic vitality but also a cherished part of our identity,” said Beth Erickson, President and CEO of Visit Loudoun. “It’s inspiring to see this community effort grow each year, uniting residents to protect Loudoun’s agritourism and DC’s Wine Country®.”

“At Amazon, we believe the most meaningful community collaborations start with listening,” said Sarah Georgiades, Head of Community Engagement, Amazon Data Centers. “Returning for a second year as a sponsor of Scrape for the Grape reflects our belief in letting community needs lead the way. When LIRA first reached out about the threat the Spotted Lanternfly poses to Loudoun’s wine country, we knew this was exactly the kind of grassroots effort we want to stand behind. We’re proud to deepen that partnership and see this campaign continue to grow.”

“Residents are just now beginning to realize how invasive plants threaten Loudoun’s economy, health, safety, and environment,” said Mike Littman, president of LIRA. “Scrape for the Grape has emerged as a powerful public awareness event, uniting eastern and western Loudoun into one of the county’s largest volunteer movements. And it’s a whole lot of fun.” The Spotted Lanternfly poses a significant threat to Loudoun’s rural economy, particularly grapevines, fruit trees and ornamental trees. Loudoun—DC’s Wine Country®—leads the state with more than 850 acres under vine producing 2,300 tons of grapes annually. The destination is a celebrated wine region with more than 50 wineries producing 25-plus varieties of grapes.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is a huge threat to our vineyards and our livelihood,” said Bill Hatch, owner of Zephaniah Farm Vineyard. “My hope is that Scrape for the Grape will continue to build awareness of the threat that all invasive species have on farming and on the beautiful Loudoun natural environment.”

In addition to removing egg masses, volunteers also learned to identify the invasive Tree of Heaven, the Lanternfly’s preferred host plant, which can later be marked for removal.

Organizers emphasized that the campaign is designed to be accessible and family-friendly, with participants of all ages contributing to the effort. Several participating wineries offered discounts to volunteers, while Mom’s Apple Pie provided Spotted-Lanternfly-shaped cookies for children who took part.

Residents interested in participating in future efforts can learn more and register at LoudounInvasives.com.

Additional information about participating organizations is available online: Visit Loudoun (visitloudoun.org), Loudoun Invasive Removal Alliance (loudouninvasives.com), Virginia Cooperative Extension (ext.vt.edu), Loudoun Wineries & Winegrowers Association (loudounwine.org), and Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy (loudounwildlife.org).