Saskatchewan Expects Grasshopper Problems in 2004

REGINA - Jan 19/04 - SNS -- Levels of grasshopper infestations in Saskatchewan will be severe and very severe in many areas of the province.

"The risk of 'Severe' grasshopper infestations appears to be greatest in a wide diagonal band from the northwest to the southeast of the province, with several areas of 'Severe' risk also identified in the area south of this band. Areas of 'Very Severe' infestations - more than 24 grasshoppers per square meter - have been identified throughout these regions," says Scott Hartley, insect control specialist, Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization (SAFRR).

"The most significant change from last year's forecast is an increase in the areas rated as 'Moderate,' a level that is above the economic threshold for most crops, and 'Light.' This increase is largely at the expense of the 2003 areas indicated as 'Very Light' and 'None.'"

SAFRR's 2004 Grasshopper Forecast map is based on adult grasshopper populations observed by SAFRR's extension agrologists during the 2003 fall survey of more than 2,400 sites.

The subscriber version of the article is available by Clicking here