SLF Mitigation Partnership Initiative Pilot Program

The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) offers grants of up to $15,000 (with a required 10% match, funds or in-kind) to organizations working to control the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF) and its primary host, tree of heaven, which threaten Ohio's grapes, hops, and stone fruits. Grants are paid as reimbursement after project completion and reporting. Eligible activities include tree-of-heaven removal, herbicide and insecticide treatment, egg-mass identification and treatment, and community SLF-control events. Funding is provided under a cooperative agreement with USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine.

State and local government agencies, park systems, and nonprofit organizations (such as cooperative weed management associations and land conservancies) with a track record in invasive plant or pest management. Universities and extension offices are excluded. Priority is given to applicants working in the most heavily infested areas. Recipients must register on SAM.gov (with a UEI), hold an Ohio ID, and be set up as a state payee.

Complete the SLF Community Control Grant application and submit it to plantpest@agri.ohio.gov; direct questions to Jonathan Shields (Jonathan.Shields@agri.ohio.gov). Round 2 applications are due September 30, 2026. Applicants must provide a 10% match and an itemized budget; a final report is due within 30 days of the award end date. Grants are reimbursement-based.