Insect Management

Nebraska map of Japanese beetle distribution

Japanese Beetles Migrating West

April 13, 2017

A newly released map of confirmed Japanese beetle populations in Nebraska shows their westward movement from where they were first identified near Lincoln and Omaha several years ago. 

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Emerging New Technologies for Insect Pest Management

March 31, 2017

Ravdeep Mutti, with the Du-Pont Pioneer Research and Development Center in Johnston, Iowa, will present the seminar, “Emerging New Technologies for Insect Pest Management” on Tuesday, April 4, at 4 p.m. in the Nebraska East Union. Refreshments will be served.

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western bean cutworm in corn
Figure 1. (left) Western bean cutworm causing feeding damage in corn. (Photo by Jim Kalisch and Silvana Paula-Moraes) (right) A green lacewing beneficial insect eating western bean cutworm eggs. (Photo by Julie Peterson)

Which Bt Traits Do You Need to Purchase?

March 24, 2017
When it comes to buying corn seed, one way to save money can be to ensure that you don't invest in GMO insect protection traits that you do not need for your particular farm or field. Which corn rootworm, western bean cutworm, or European corn borer traits do you need? This article can help you determine which of the nine types of Bt proteins might best serve your needs.

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western corn rootworm beetle

Considering Non-Bt Traited Corn in 2017? Plan for More Scouting

February 8, 2017
If you're considering planting non-Bt corn this year, entomologists urge you to plan for the additional pest management practices (and associated costs) you may need to adopt, given this decision.

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Japanese beetle
Figure 1. Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) (Photo by Jim Kalisch)

Nebraska Extension Pest of the Month: Japanese Beetle

February 1, 2017

Insects are a part of our environment. Most are beneficial, not problematic. In fact, only a small percentage — less than one percent of all insects — are considered pests. However, some pests can be very problematic because they are invasive insects that came here from another country and they came here without their natural predators.

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Western Bean Cutworm: Pest Status & IPM Options

January 6, 2017

A USDA-NIFA Outreach Webcast
hosted by the Plant Management Network

(34 min 48 sec)

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Western bean cutworm damaging an ear of corn
Western bean cutworm damaging an ear of corn

Nebraska Perspective on Efficacy of Cry1F Bt Corn Against Western Bean Cutworm

October 21, 2016
While entomologists in the Eastern Corn Belt this month reported reduced efficacy of the Cry1f Bt protein against western bean cutworm in corn, Nebraska growers have been facing this for several years. While Cry1F products will still help control other pests, growers are advised to scout for WBC and determine whether treatment is necessary.

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Soybean stem borer larva
Soybean stem borer larva

Soybean Stem Borers Feeding in South Central Nebraska

August 16, 2016
We are starting to see dead leaves caused by feeding of soybean stem borer larvae in south central Nebraska soybeans. No control measures are appropriate at this time, but monitor your fields and be aware that high populations of soybean stem borers may predispose the field to lodging and make harvest difficult.

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