Timely Topic – Insect Management

When it comes to snow (Figure 1.), most producers growing winter crops, i.e. wheat, canola and/or peas, welcome the protection that a layer of snow cover can provide especially if below freezing temperatures are in the forecast. However, snow that remains on wheat greater than 100 days can lead to the development of “Snow Mold.”

Despite their name and characteristic male chirping, Mormon crickets are not true crickets, but rather shield-backed katydids. These pests got their name by endangering the livelihood of Mormon pioneers in the mid-1800s. Pest outbreaks are…