LWC Officially Partners to “Scrape for the Grape”

What is Scrape for the Grape?

Scrape for the Grape is an annual volunteer-driven event designed to combat the invasive Spotted Lanternfly in Loudoun County and protect vineyards, fruit trees, and other crops from its destructive impact.

Scrape for the Grape is a registered trademark of Visit Loudoun, and the campaign was launched in 2024 through a partnership between Visit Loudoun, the Loudoun Invasive Removal Alliance (LIRA), Loudoun County, the Virginia Cooperative Extension of Loudoun County, and the Loudoun Wineries & Winegrowers Association.

This year, we have some big news, as Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is joining the campaign as an official partner to support expanded outreach and volunteer engagement!

“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 will showcase its most ambitious efforts yet this year, with three volunteer days (up from one in 2024 and two in 2025). Residents of all ages are invited to participate in these easy, family-friendly events from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 21, April 4, and April 12 at 16 wineries and vineyards, Ida Lee Park, and two HOAs.

Volunteers will be trained to identify Spotted Lanternfly egg masses and destroy them using credit-card-sized scrapers. Each egg mass eliminated prevents dozens of Lanternflies from emerging later in the spring to feed on sap from the vines and severely damage or kill them. Plus, volunteers get free T-shirts, bandanas, and some great rewards from participating wineries!

Loudoun Wildlife is calling on its incredible network of volunteers to support this collaborative effort and help make this the largest, most impactful Scrape for the Grape ever! Click the button below or this link to head to the LIRA website where you can learn full details about this year’s Scrape for the Grape and register to participate!

We can’t wait to see you for this Scrape-tacular event (sorry, we couldn’t resist) to protect Loudoun’s rural economy!

Read the full press release for this year’s Scrape for the Grape and check out some of the photos from previous years.