WHAT CHATGPT THINKS CALIFORNIA SHOULD DO FOR SPOTTED LANTERNFLY

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024.  BY STEPHANIE BOLTON, PhD, LODI WINEGRAPE COMMISSION.

If you haven’t sat down with ChatGPT to indulge your curiosity, you are missing out on some fun. You can ask this artificial intelligence system anything and even refine how you want the answer to be presented. Unlike some humans, ChatGPT doesn’t get frustrated with you if you disagree, if you get distracted and ignore it for a while, if you do not understand the first time or if you have 100 follow-up questions. You direct the conversation flow and have total freedom to exit the chat at your convenience.

For our upcoming January IPM Network Breakfast Meeting, we’re showcasing how growers, pest control advisors, consultants and wineries can best use ChatGPT to enhance their integrated pest management. See details below.

CD11 LODI IPM NETWORK BREAKFAST MEETING.

Date:  Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Time:  8:00 – 9:30am

Venue:  Burgundy Hall, Grape Festival Grounds, 413 E Lockeford St, Lodi, CA

Cost:  FREE, all are welcome

Credits:  1.5 hrs (DPR CE – OTHER) applied for

Topic:  Using ChatGPT for IPM

Who Should Attend:  Local Pest Control Advisers (PCAs), GROWERS who manage their own pest control (PRIVATE APPLICATORS) or who have pest control questions, anyone looking for viticulture DPR CE credits, viticulture TECHNICAL ADVISORS in Lodi, and winemakers/grower relations personnel interested in learning about vineyard pest management.

Description:  Our group meets monthly to discuss current vineyard pests and their management. The goal is to create a strong local network for communicating the best IPM strategies and for support in solving viticultural anomalies. This month, Dr. Stephanie Bolton will show you how to use ChatGPT to help with integrated pest management on your vineyard. ChatGPT is a form of artificial intelligence which can scan thousands of internet sites to answer our questions and summarize information on very specific topics in an understandable way. You’ll see how fun, easy and smart this artificial intelligence can be! No experience necessary.

RSVP:  To the Lodi Winegrape Commission by phone 209.367.4727 or email info@lodiwine.com.

Trees of Heaven growing in an abandoned vineyard in the Lodi AVA. Photo taken in summer 2024 by Dr. Stephanie Bolton.

As one example, I was pretty amazed when I asked ChatGPT for help with our spotted lanternfly prevention plan for California around the Tree of Heaven. Below is a transcript of my recent conversation with ChatGPT about what we could be doing, which provides a nice follow-up to our previous blog posts on this topic (“WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW RIGHT NOW ABOUT THE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY & THE TREE OF HEAVEN” and “NEW INFORMATION ABOUT SPOTTED LANTERNFLY PREVENTION FOR CALIFORNIA“).

 

Me:  We need help coordinating an effort to inspect the Tree of Heaven for spotted lanternfly egg masses and remove the trees. What do you suggest?
ChatGPT:  Coordinating an effort to inspect the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) for spotted lanternfly (SLF) egg masses and removing the trees requires a well-organized plan involving community outreach, education, and efficient execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Formulate a Strategy

  • Objective: Clearly define your goals: inspection, egg mass removal, and tree eradication.
  • Team: Assemble a team of volunteers, local experts, and community organizations.

2. Identify and Map Target Areas

  • Mapping Trees: Use GIS software or mapping tools to identify and mark locations of known Tree of Heaven populations.
  • SLF Hotspots: Cross-reference SLF infestation data to prioritize areas for inspection.

3. Educate and Train Participants

  • Workshops: Host training sessions on identifying Tree of Heaven, SLF egg masses, and proper tree removal techniques.
  • Materials: Distribute educational materials, including guides with pictures of SLF egg masses and safe removal methods.
  • Safety Protocols: Emphasize the importance of safety, especially when handling tools or chemicals.

4. Organize Inspection Events

  • Scheduling: Plan inspection days and divide the area into manageable zones for teams.
  • Equipment: Provide necessary tools like scrapers, plastic cards, magnifying glasses, and containers to collect egg masses.
  • Documentation: Instruct teams to record findings with photos and notes.

5. Remove Trees Strategically

  • Permit and Guidelines: Ensure compliance with local regulations for tree removal.
  • Tree Removal Methods:
    • Cut Stump Treatment: After cutting the tree, treat the stump with herbicides to prevent regrowth.
    • Biological Controls: If available, explore biocontrols for SLF or Tree of Heaven.
  • Professional Assistance: For large or hazardous trees, hire certified arborists.

6. Dispose of Waste Properly

  • Egg Masses: Destroy egg masses by placing them in a sealed bag with alcohol or soapy water.
  • Tree Debris: Dispose of removed trees and branches in accordance with local waste management protocols to prevent SLF spread.

7. Spread Awareness

  • Community Involvement: Partner with local schools, businesses, and environmental groups to promote the project.
  • Social Media: Use platforms to share progress and engage more volunteers.

8. Monitor and Evaluate

  • Follow-Up Inspections: Schedule periodic checks to ensure that egg masses and regrowth are controlled.
  • Report Findings: Share results with local environmental agencies to contribute to larger SLF management efforts.

9. Seek Funding and Support

  • Grants: Apply for grants from environmental or agricultural organizations.
  • Donations: Encourage local businesses to contribute tools, supplies, or funds.
  • Partnerships: Collaborate with state or regional SLF management programs.

Would you like assistance with specific aspects, such as creating training materials or mapping tools?
Me:  Yes
ChatGPT:  Here’s how we can assist with creating training materials and mapping tools for your Tree of Heaven and spotted lanternfly management effort:

Training Materials

  1. Egg Mass Identification Guide:
    • A visual guide with clear photos of SLF egg masses, Tree of Heaven bark, and nearby surfaces where eggs might be laid.
    • Include descriptions of look-alike species or objects to avoid false alarms.
  2. Tree of Heaven Identification Guide:
    • Highlight distinguishing features (e.g., smooth gray bark, long compound leaves with a “peanut butter” smell when crushed).
    • Contrast with similar native trees to prevent misidentification.
  3. Step-by-Step Manual for Volunteers:
    • Instructions for scraping SLF egg masses safely (tools, containers, and methods).
    • Guidance on how to photograph and document findings.
    • Safety tips for working outdoors (e.g., protective clothing, awareness of hazardous plants/insects).
  4. Presentation/Workshop Slides:
    • Slide deck for training events, covering SLF lifecycle, Tree of Heaven characteristics, and removal techniques.
    • Include videos or animations showing the scraping process and stump treatment.
  5. Quick Reference Cards:
    • Small, laminated cards for volunteers with egg mass and tree identification tips, plus a checklist for inspections.

Mapping Tools

  1. Tree of Heaven Mapping:
    • Use free or low-cost GIS tools like Google Earth Pro or QGIS to map known Tree of Heaven populations.
    • Collaborate with local environmental agencies or universities for access to existing data layers.
  2. Volunteer-Friendly Data Collection:
    • Set up a simple mobile app for field data entry (e.g., iNaturalist, Survey123, or Google Forms).
    • Fields to include: GPS location, tree condition, egg mass presence, and removal status.
  3. Interactive Map for Coordination:
    • Use platforms like Google My Maps or ArcGIS Online to create a shareable, real-time map.
    • Color-code areas by priority level (e.g., green for low priority, red for high priority).
  4. Heatmaps:
    • Generate heatmaps of SLF sightings using tools like Excel Power Map or GIS software.
    • Overlay these maps with Tree of Heaven data to pinpoint inspection priorities.

Immediate Steps

Let me know which materials you’d like to start with, or if you need help drafting specific content like:

  • A detailed guide for volunteers
  • Templates for a presentation/workshop
  • A setup for mapping data collection (e.g., Google Forms/Maps)

I can provide a draft or guide tailored to your needs!

Me:  Yes, please provide a detailed draft guide for volunteers
ChatGPT:  Volunteer Guide Slf

Volunteer Guide for Tree of Heaven and Spotted Lanternfly Management

Introduction

Welcome, and thank you for joining the effort to combat the spread of the spotted lanternfly (SLF) and manage Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Your work will help protect our environment, agriculture, and communities. This guide provides all the information you need to safely and effectively inspect for SLF egg masses, remove them, and assist in tree removal efforts.

Overview of the Spotted Lanternfly Problem

  • What is the Spotted Lanternfly? The SLF is an invasive insect native to Asia that feeds on a variety of plants, causing damage to crops, forests, and ornamentals.
  • Why Target the Tree of Heaven? Tree of Heaven is a preferred host for SLF, providing a breeding ground for the pest. Removing these trees and egg masses disrupts their lifecycle.

Identifying the Tree of Heaven

  • Leaves: Compound leaves with 10-40 leaflets, each having a smooth edge and a small glandular bump near the base.
  • Bark: Smooth and gray with a light tan inner layer when scratched.
  • Smell: Crushed leaves or stems have a strong odor resembling burnt peanut butter.
  • Growth Habits: Rapid-growing with clusters of yellow-green flowers and winged seed pods.

Identifying SLF Egg Masses

  • Appearance: Egg masses look like mud smears, about 1 inch long, with a grayish or brown protective coating.
  • Location: Found on tree trunks, branches, rocks, fences, and even man-made objects.
  • Timing: Most visible from fall through early spring.

Inspection Process

  1. Tools You’ll Need:
    • Scraper tool (e.g., plastic card or putty knife).
    • Small plastic container or zip-top bag.
    • Alcohol or soapy water (for egg mass destruction).
    • Smartphone or GPS device for recording locations.
    • Gloves and safety gear.
  2. Inspection Steps:
    • Start at the base of the Tree of Heaven and inspect the trunk for egg masses.
    • Look on nearby surfaces within a 15-foot radius.
    • Use the scraper to gently remove egg masses into the container.
    • Submerge egg masses in alcohol or soapy water to destroy them.
    • Document the location and number of egg masses found using the provided data sheet or app.

Tree Removal Guidelines

  1. Assess the Tree:
    • Verify it is a Tree of Heaven.
    • Determine if it’s a candidate for removal (priority trees are larger and in SLF hotspots).
  2. Removal Methods:
    • Cut Stump Treatment:
      • Cut the tree close to the ground.
      • Immediately treat the stump with an herbicide labeled for Tree of Heaven to prevent regrowth.
    • Safety First: Use proper tools and protective equipment. If the tree is large or near power lines, contact a professional arborist.
  3. Dispose of Debris:
    • Chip or burn wood if local regulations allow.
    • Do not transport tree material outside the infestation zone to prevent SLF spread.

Safety Guidelines

  • Wear gloves, long sleeves, and sturdy footwear.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, including wildlife, hazardous plants, or uneven terrain.
  • Follow chemical application guidelines if using herbicides.
  • Always work in pairs or groups for safety.

Data Collection and Reporting

  • Recording Data:
    • Note the tree’s location (GPS coordinates or nearby landmarks).
    • Record the number of egg masses found and removed.
    • Document tree removal details (date, size, and method).
  • Reporting:
    • Submit findings to the project coordinator via the provided app, online form, or paper log.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What if I can’t identify the tree or egg masses?
    • Take clear photos and share them with the coordinator for confirmation.
  2. Can I remove trees on private property?
    • Obtain permission from the property owner before performing any work.
  3. What should I do if I encounter a large infestation?
    • Report it to the project coordinator immediately for specialized intervention.

Thank You!

Your dedication is vital to controlling the spread of the spotted lanternfly and protecting our environment. Together, we can make a significant impact. If you have questions or need support, contact the project coordinator at [contact information].

I’ve created a detailed draft guide for volunteers. Please review it and let me know if you’d like to make any adjustments or add more sections!

 

 

Me:  Thank you. Can you add photographs?
ChatGPT:  Unfortunately, I cannot directly embed photographs into the document at the moment. However, I can guide you on how to include them or provide captions and descriptions for the types of images to add. Here’s a list of suggested photographs and their captions for the guide:

Photographs to Include

  1. Tree of Heaven Identification:
    • Photo of a Tree of Heaven trunk, showing its smooth gray bark.
    • Close-up of a compound leaf with the glandular bump at the base of each leaflet.
    • Full tree in its natural setting.
  2. Spotted Lanternfly Egg Masses:
    • Close-up of egg masses on tree bark.
    • Example of egg masses on man-made surfaces (e.g., fence posts or vehicles).
    • Before-and-after photos of egg mass removal.
  3. Volunteer Tools:
    • Photo of scraper tools, plastic containers, gloves, and soapy water.
    • Example of a volunteer performing an inspection.
  4. Tree Removal:
    • Image of a Tree of Heaven being cut down (if possible, show the stump being treated with herbicide).
    • Disposal methods like wood chipping.
  5. Safety and Teamwork:
    • Volunteers working in pairs or groups inspecting trees.
    • Example of proper protective gear.

Next Steps

If you have access to these images, you can embed them into the document where they fit naturally (e.g., under “Identifying the Tree of Heaven” or “Inspection Process”). If needed, I can help create an outline specifying where to place each image. Alternatively, I can generate detailed visual descriptions or diagrams upon request. Let me know how you’d like to proceed!

 

 

As you can tell, ChatGPT did an excellent and impressive job at developing a Tree of Heaven inspection and removal outreach strategy for spotted lanternfly prevention in California that closely matches what we at the Lodi Winegrape Commission have been trying to do since this summer. ChatGPT is not perfect – it’s meant to provide a starting point rather than sound advice. Often in our collaborative efforts, we’ve found it helpful to have a document in writing for people to review. This really helps get the conversation flowing. Without having something in writing to discuss, meetings often become conversations rather than strategical action brainstorming sessions.

 

The main thing I would correct from above is the method to remove the Tree of Heaven. We do not recommend the cut stump method. So, I asked ChatGPT to refine that section.

 

Me:  Can you refine the Tree of Heaven removal process based on information shared here: https://lodigrowers.com/treeofheaven/ ?
ChatGPT:  Based on the latest insights from the Lodi Winegrape Commission, it’s crucial to adopt a strategic approach for the effective removal of Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) to combat the spread of the spotted lanternfly (SLF). Here’s an updated guide:

1. Importance of Tree of Heaven Removal

  • SLF Preferred Host: Tree of Heaven is a primary host for SLF, facilitating its growth and reproduction. Removing these trees can significantly disrupt the SLF lifecycle and help protect local agriculture.
    Lodi Growers

2. Identification of Tree of Heaven

  • Leaves: Compound leaves with 10-40 leaflets, each having a smooth edge and a small glandular bump near the base.
  • Bark: Smooth, gray bark with a light tan inner layer when scratched.
  • Smell: Crushed leaves or stems emit a strong odor resembling burnt peanut butter.
  • Growth Habits: Rapid-growing with clusters of yellow-green flowers and winged seed pods.

3. Timing for Removal

  • Optimal Period: The best time to remove Tree of Heaven is from July through early fall, before leaf drop. During this period, the tree’s root system is at its weakest, and carbohydrates are moving downward, making treatments more effective.
    Lodi Growers

4. Recommended Removal Methods

  • Avoid Simple Cutting: Simply cutting down the tree can lead to vigorous resprouting from the extensive root system, exacerbating the problem.
  • Herbicide Application:
    • Foliar Spray: Apply a suitable herbicide to the foliage during the growing season when the tree is actively transporting nutrients to the roots.
    • Basal Bark Treatment: Apply herbicide directly to the bark at the base of the tree.
    • EZ-Ject System: Utilize devices like the EZ-Ject herbicide injection system, which injects herbicide capsules directly into the tree, ensuring effective distribution throughout the plant.
      Lodi Growers
  • Combination Approach: Combining mechanical removal with chemical treatments can enhance effectiveness. For instance, after applying herbicide, allow time for it to translocate to the roots before cutting the tree down.

5. Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Regular Inspections: Monitor treated areas for signs of regrowth or new seedlings.
  • Repeat Treatments: Be prepared to conduct follow-up treatments over several years, as complete eradication often requires persistent effort.

6. Safety and Environmental Considerations

  • Herbicide Use: Always follow label instructions and local regulations when using herbicides.
  • Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective equipment during application to ensure personal safety.
  • Non-Target Species: Take care to minimize exposure to non-target plants and animals.

Implementing these refined strategies will enhance the effectiveness of Tree of Heaven removal efforts, thereby contributing to the control of the spotted lanternfly population and the protection of local ecosystems.

 

 

Learn more at our first IPM Breakfast Meeting of 2025 on Tuesday, January 7, at Burgundy Hall. We’ll share real-world examples of how growers, pest control advisors and consultants use ChatGPT to enhance their efficiency and protection of our vineyards from pests and diseases. All experience levels and people are welcome to attend.

 

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