By Jamie Martin
Bayer has launched the eighth season of its farmer-focused initiative, The Watch 2025, to help U.S. corn producers stay ahead of corn rootworm, a pest responsible for about $1 billion in crop losses annually.
The program offers free tools, education, and scouting support to ensure farmers can protect their yields.
Corn rootworm causes damage throughout its life cycle, from larvae that feed on roots underground to adult beetles above ground. "Corn rootworm is a yield-robbing pest that attacks at every stage of its life cycle,” said Safeer Hassan, Bayer’s technical product lead for corn traits. “When root systems are compromised, the plant’s ability to take up water and nutrients suffers, leading to reduced yield potential.”
The Watch provides farmers with scouting methods like sticky trap placement, expert insights, and updates throughout the season.
A major highlight is the free Corn Rootworm Pressure Starter Kit, which includes sticky traps and is available until July 7, 2025.
In addition, farmers are encouraged to join the #RootwormWatch social media contest for a chance to win a premium portable electric cooler.
To enter, participants must post a photo of their sticky trap setup to Facebook or X by August 20, tagging @BayerTraits and using hashtags #RootwormWatch and #sweepstakes.
Key dates include:
- June 1–7: Corn Rootworm Week with special content online
- July 7: Kit request deadline
- August 20: Contest entry deadline
Bayer also promotes its advanced corn trait solutions like SmartStax® PRO and VT4PRO™ with RNAi Technology, offering superior protection for varying levels of rootworm pressure.
“It’s critical that we help raise awareness around corn rootworm and empower farmers to act early,” Hassan emphasized.
Farmers can join The Watch and access all resources at traits.bayer.com/thewatch.
Categories: National