Thomas Hunt - Extension Entomologist

Tom Hunt

volunteer, emeriti
  • Emeritus Professor University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Work
57905 866 Rd Concord NE 68728-2828
US

Faculty Bio

brown stink bug

A New Stink Bug IPM Resource for Midwest Corn and Soybean Growers

May 5, 2017
In a new article in the Journal of Integrated Pest management the authors review the biology, ecology, and management of several species of stink bugs common to the Midwest, including the green stink bug, brown marmorated stink bug, redshouldered stink bug, brown stink bug, and onespotted stink bug, all of which are found in Nebraska. Photos and drawings would aid in identification in the field.

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alfalfa weevils

Scouting Advised for Alfalfa and Clover Leaf Weevils

April 20, 2017
Alfalfa weevils have been reported damaging alfalfa in north central Kansas and western Nebraska. As temperatures warm up, expect to see alfalfa weevil larvae in southern Nebraska and slightly later, in northern Nebraska. Even with the pressure of planting row crops, it is essential that producers growing high quality alfalfa hay make time to monitor fields for weevils now and over the next few weeks. See the article for a table of treatment thresholds for various alfalfa prices.

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Center pivot irrigated soybeans
Management in a successful soybean-after-soybean cropping system may require growers to make some slight adjustments in their practices, including irrigation, seed selection, and pest management.

Planting Soybean after Soybean (Part 2): In-Season Management Considerations

April 13, 2017

In Part 1 of this article, we look at considerations for planting soybean after soybean. In this article, Part 2, we share considerations for in-season management.

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soybean field

Planting Soybean after Soybean (Part 1): Planting Considerations

April 13, 2017
Farmers are increasing their soybean plantings for 2017, which likely means some are shifting to soybeans-after-soybeans. This article looks at what you should be considering at planting time as you consider changing your cropping sequence.

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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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Soybean aphid speed scouting app
Soybean aphid speed scouting app

Soybean Aphid Scouting and Management

July 28, 2016

The current recommended economic threshold for late vegetative through R5 stage soybeans is 250 aphids per plant with 80% of the plants infested and populations increasing. Depending on economic conditions, this generally gives you about five to seven days to schedule treatment before populations reach economically damaging levels.

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Soybean Aphid
Soybean Aphid

Soybean Aphids Found in Northeast Nebraska; Scouting Warranted

July 28, 2016

This week soybean aphids were found in several northeast Nebraska fields at low numbers. Although it has been too hot for soybean aphids to thrive, populations could quickly increase with cooler temperatures. Scouting is recommended at this time.

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