The subject of bugs was a major topic of discussion at the Oct. 18 Lower Macungie Township Board of Commissioners meeting.

Many residents raised concerns about the Spotted Lantern Fly infestation. Residents were told they should begin implementing Penn State Extension’s recommendations in the Spotted Lantern Fly calendar.

It was suggested egg casings should be removed immediately. In certain areas, the egg masses are quite evident. It is also important to pay attention to other flat surfaces such as automobiles and patio furniture. These insects are considered hitchhikers and will infest a new area just by latching on to an object. This is where they get their nickname “hitchhiker.”

Community education should be a priority for this bug. Some Emmaus High School students from the AP environmental group are assisting as well as the Boy and Girls Scouts.

There is some funding available. Gov. Tom Wolf approved $3 million in state funding regarding the Spotted Lantern Fly. There is also federal funding.

Residents of Ancient Oak near Woodbine and Catalpa expressed concern over mosquitoes due to the standing water in that area. They said it is a public health concern. Residents expressed concern for their children with fears of West Nile virus. One resident said she went outside and her baby was covered with bites in a short amount of time.

Residents were encouraged to meet with the Environmental Advisory Council. Another suggestion was to add bat boxes as bats eat large amounts of insects.

In other business, a resident expressed his concern for school buses traveling on Schoeneck Road, near the railroad crossing. There is poor visibility at the crossing with the road narrowing making it difficult to share the road with another vehicle, much less a school bus. This is being referred to committee.

Some Mertztown Road residents raised a concern over a stormwater problem. This was referred to the roads and sewer committee.