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2008 Grasshopper Forecast | |
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The potential risk of economically significant grasshopper populations in 2008 has increased dramatically in north-central Alberta and parts of the Peace region. However, the 2008 Alberta grasshopper forecast map shows low populations of grasshoppers throughout much of south central and southern Alberta.
Areas indicated with moderate to severe risk could experience problems with grasshoppers if environmental conditions favor the hatching and development of grasshoppers in late May through June.
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The 2008 grasshopper forecast map is based on adult grasshoppers counts conducted in early August of 2007 by participating Agriculture Fieldmen across the province (link to participating fieldmen). These adult counts give an indication of the number of adults at the end of the season that are capable of reproduction and egg laying. Environmental factors can result in higher or lower actual populations than forecast. Individual producers need to be aware of the potential risks in their area and monitor fields in order to be prepared to make the appropriate decisions to implement control measures.
On individual farms, particular attention should be paid to areas that traditionally have higher grasshopper populations. In addition, grasshoppers tend to lay their eggs near areas of green growth in the fall that will provide potential food sources for emerging young the following spring. Areas with early green plant growth such as field margins, fence-lines and roadsides are also areas that will give early indications of potential grasshopper problems.
If insecticides are needed, note label precautions regarding user safety, proper application techniques and instructions to reduce impacts on non-target organisms. It is important to remember that control measures are intended to protect the crops from economic damage and are never successful in totally eliminating grasshopper populations.
Alberta Agriculture and Food acknowledges the commitment and support of the Agriculture Fieldmen across the province in conducting the surveys essential to the creation of this forecast. This survey was coordinated by Debbie Oyarzun, Maureen Vadnais and Scott Meers of Alberta Agriculture and Food.
For more information on grasshoppers and their management contact the Ag-Info Centre at 310-FARM (3276). |
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For more information about the content of this document, contact Scott Meers.
This document is maintained by Shelley Barkley.
This information published to the web on February 6, 2008.
Last Reviewed/Revised on December 15, 2009.
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