Montana is playing a key role in a multi-state Wheat Stem Sawfly survey, alongside Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Kansas. The goal of this project is to increase awareness of issues and associated losses caused by Wheat Stem Sawflies. The survey will examine both producers who’ve struggled with the insect for many years and those who are seeing the damage for the first time. Ultimately, we hope that our efforts will lead to increased federal funding for further research.
The Details…
First, Montana growers are asked to complete a survey, which will take about 30 minutes. The collected responses will be compiled by the project leader, Dr. Jeff Bradshaw of the University of Nebraska. You’ll find a link to the survey site below.
Second, Montana State University and the United States Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), in Sidney will conduct a postharvest sampling of Wheat Stem Sawfly damage throughout the state. Sampling will focus on field borders which will showcase the severity of the damage. This information will highlight areas that have had long-standing WSS losses and establish records in locations that are just beginning to experience problems.
The efforts for Montana State University are being led by Dr. David Weaver, while Dr. Tatyana Rand is leading the efforts for USDA-ARS.
Contacts: David Weaver (weaver@montana.edu) Tatyana Rand (tatyana.rand@usda.gov).