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2010 Grasshopper Forecast | |
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The risk of economically significant grasshopper populations in 2010 has increased in the northwest portion of central Alberta and the Peace region. The 2010 Alberta grasshopper forecast map shows low populations of grasshoppers throughout much of central and southern Alberta with the exception of northwest central Alberta, parts of the Special Areas and south of Lethbridge. Based on this survey and the excellent fall weather of extended warm and dry conditions which allowed ample time for egg laying these areas are poised for a further increase in grasshopper numbers.
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. Localized factors such as light soils or south facing slopes result in an elevated risk of grasshopper infestations. Conditions in late spring 2010 will determine the extent of the grasshopper problems later this growing season.
2010 Grasshopper Forecast Map |
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The 2010 grasshopper forecast map is based on adult grasshoppers counts conducted in early August of 2009 by participating Agriculture Fieldmen across the province. 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. Infestation levels in individual fields are NOT indicated in this forecast map
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 Maureen Vadnais Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development.
For more information on grasshoppers and their management contact the Ag-Info Centre at 310-FARM (3276).
Follow this link for a page size printable version of the forecast map.
Follow this link for economic threshold information for grasshoppers |
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For more information about the content of this document, contact Scott Meers.
This document is maintained by Stacey Tames.
This information published to the web on January 21, 2010.
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