Insect and disease surveys across the Prairies have moved in recent years to a permission-based system to access fields for monitoring. Survey results to create forecast maps, guide research decisions, detect and track new or emerging pests, and support management decisions. The wheat midge survey will begin in September and access to additional wheat fields are still needed. Data collected from the wheat midge survey is used to create an annual forecast map which is posted on Sasktchewan.ca.
Read MoreA relatively small number of insect species can be major limiting factors in wheat production. Several parts of plants are attacked by specific species and each can cause damage that reduces yields and quality. One of the more important of these is the Sitodiplosis mosellana, more commonly known as the wheat midge. This small (2-3 mm) fly lays eggs under the glumes or floret grooves of newly emerged heads. Eggs are laid late June to early July in the evening, near sunset, individually or in clusters of 3-4.
Read MoreThe 2019 Grasshopper Survey was completed on 1,160 sites throughout Saskatchewan in August. Light populations were seen throughout the province, with some exceptions. Most moderate counts (five to 10 m2) were found in the southeast, with a few moderate counts near Saskatoon, Biggar and Rosetown. The highest populations (more than 10 m2) were seen primarily in the southeast.
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