By Blake Jackson
Farmers are encouraged to enroll in the University of Missouri Pest Monitoring Network to receive free updates that can help them respond quickly to potential insect threats during the growing season.
The alert system provides timely information about pest activity across the state. According to MU Extension crops entomologist Ivair Valmorbida, “The free, timely pest alerts can be an early-warning system for farmers.”
Regular scouting and monitoring allow producers to detect pest populations before they reach levels that cause economic damage. By following economic thresholds and using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, farmers can make informed decisions to protect crop yields while reducing unnecessary insecticide applications.
The network currently tracks seven major insect pests affecting crops: Japanese beetle, Brown marmorated stink bug, Black cutworm, Corn earworm, Fall armyworm, True armyworm, and Corn leafhopper.
Extension agronomists and faculty members began placing monitoring traps across the state on March 9. Each week collected data is submitted to the MU Integrated Pest Management website, where it tracks insect abundance, activity, and distribution.
When trap counts reach certain levels within seven days, the network sends notifications by text and email. Farmers interested in receiving alerts can sign up through the Pest Monitoring Network website.
Photo Credit: pexels-amber-shadow
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Education