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Psyllid numbers stop climbing; eleven more Lso-positive psyllids
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: September 3, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
• This week we received traps from 40 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring; many fields have now undergone vine kill.
• We captured a total of 199 psyllids spread across 20 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
• Of the 281 psyllids captured last week, 11 tested positive for Lso. Six were from Canyon County, three were from Elmore County, and two from Twin Falls County.
• For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Overall psyllid captures continue to be relatively high, but thankfully the total captures (and captures per trap) declined relative to last week. Lso incidence has been relatively low for the most part, though we have recently seen several “hot” psyllids from the Treasure and Magic valleys. Canyon, Elmore, and Twin Falls counties have tended to have the most psyllids and the most Lso-positive psyllids in recent weeks. The high captures last week were likely related to psyllids dispersing from senescing fields, and the more moderate captures this week were likely related to cooler temperatures. We urge growers to keep their IPM programs going, especially for areas that might be at slightly higher risk. In our research with Russet Burbank, tubers still have some risk of showing ZC symptoms in storage if infection occurs within 1-2 weeks before vine kill.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Final call for topics - 2026 IAPP Annual Meeting
All Crops All Locations
Posted on: September 2, 2026 by Kasia Duellman
Hello All,
This is the final call for topics for the annual meeting of the Idaho Association of Plant Protection. The 2026 IAPP meeting will be held Wednesday, November 4 to Thursday, November 5 at the Herrett Center for Arts & Science on the College of Southern Idaho campus in Twin Falls. We hope you can join us!
Pesticide credits for Idaho and CEUs for certified crop advisors are anticipated.
Deadline for topics: September 15
If you would like to share data or observations related to crop protection, we invite you to submit a presentation topic. Please provide a title and a brief description (3-4 sentences) of what you would like to present and send to one of the 2026 Co-Chairs via email.
Industry Co-Chair:
Mitchell Bauske, mitchell.bauske@bayer.com, (208) 501-6330
University Co-Chair:
Kasia Duellman, kduellman@uidaho.edu, (208) 757-5476
More information can be found here:
https://millerresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IAPP-2026-Meeting-Invitation.pdf
The topic submission form can be found here:
https://sites.google.com/uidaho.edu/extensionseedpotato/events
» https://millerresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IAPP-2026-Meeting-Invitation.pdf
» https://sites.google.com/uidaho.edu/extensionseedpotato/events
Watch for Armyworms in Treasure Valley Lawns
All Crops Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon
Armyworm, Order Lepidoptera: Family Noctuidae
Posted on: August 31, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
A homeowner in Kuna recently reported large numbers of caterpillars in a lawn following accidental flooding, along with noticeable turf injury. The caterpillars appear consistent with armyworms, although species identification has not yet been confirmed. Homeowners and landscape professionals in the Treasure Valley are encouraged to inspect lawns showing unusual thinning, browning, or rapidly developing patches of damaged grass.
What to Look For
Armyworms are the caterpillar stage of noctuid moths and feed primarily on foliage. Depending on the species and age, larvae may be green, tan, brown, gray, or nearly black and often have distinct longitudinal stripes along the body. Mature larvae of some species may reach approximately 1½–2 inches long.
Armyworms get their name from their tendency, when populations are high, to move together across vegetation in large numbers.
- Numerous caterpillars in or near the turf
- Ragged, chewed, or closely clipped grass blades
- Brown or thinning patches that may initially resemble drought or heat stress
- Damage that appears to expand rapidly across the lawn
- Caterpillars hiding near the soil surface or in thatch during the day
- Increased bird activity in the lawn, which may indicate abundant caterpillars
Armyworms frequently feed during the evening and nighttime, so scouting around dusk or early morning may make them easier to find.
How to Scout
Inspect both the damaged turf and the green turf immediately bordering damaged areas. Separate the grass canopy and examine the thatch and soil surface for caterpillars.
A simple soap-flush method can also help bring turf-feeding caterpillars to the surface. The PNW Pest Management Handbook recommends a soap-flush scouting method for caterpillar pests of turfgrass. Apply a dilute solution of lemon-scented dish soap and water to a small section of turf and watch for several minutes for caterpillars emerging from the thatch.
If you find caterpillars, collect several specimens or take clear photographs showing the head and markings along the body for identification (https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/horticulture/insect-id).
Correct identification is important because armyworms can be confused with cutworms and sod webworms.
Management
Do not automatically treat simply because caterpillars are present. Armyworms have many natural enemies, including predatory insects, parasitic wasps and flies, and naturally occurring pathogens. Unnecessary broad-spectrum insecticide applications can disrupt these beneficial organisms.
For lawns with limited injury, continue scouting and maintain appropriate turf health. Avoid excessive irrigation or prolonged saturated conditions and manage excessive thatch where present.
If caterpillars are numerous and turf injury is actively expanding, management may be warranted. Biological insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be useful against young caterpillars, and some spinosad products are also available for caterpillar management. Effectiveness depends on larval size, application timing, and whether the product is labeled for the intended turfgrass site.
Because many armyworm larvae are most active after dark, applications targeting actively feeding larvae are generally most effective during the late afternoon or evening.
Before applying any pesticide, confirm the pest and read and follow the pesticide label. The application site such as residential turf must be listed on the product label.
Why Scout Now?
Armyworm populations can develop quickly, and larger larvae consume substantially more foliage than younger larvae. Early detection provides more time to confirm the pest, evaluate the amount of injury, conserve natural enemies, and determine whether treatment is actually necessary.
Treasure Valley homeowners and landscape professionals who notice large numbers of caterpillars or rapidly developing turf damage are encouraged to scout and document what they are seeing.
Resources: University of Idaho Extension, Integrated Pest Management of Armyworms (BUL 1063) https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/outputs/report/IPM-of-Armyworms/996749725401851 and the Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbooks https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/hort/landscape/common/landscape-cutworm-fruitworm-armyworm
Psyllid captures climb; two psyllids from last week Lso positive
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 27, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
• This week we received traps from 38 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring; many fields have now undergone vine kill.
• We captured a total of 281 psyllids spread across 23 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
• Of the 116 psyllids captured last week, two of them from Canyon County tested positive for Lso.
• For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Overall psyllid captures continue to be relatively high, and captures per trap were notably higher this week than for the same time during the previous several seasons. Thankfully, Lso incidence has been relatively low for the most part, though there have been some positives over the last two weeks in Canyon County. The increased abundance of psyllids this week is also somewhat localized, with most psyllids captured in Canyon, Elmore, and Twin Falls counties. We urge growers to keep their IPM programs going, especially for areas that might be at slightly higher risk. In our research with Russet Burbank, tubers still have some risk of showing ZC symptoms in storage if infection occurs within 1-2 weeks before vine kill.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
August 20, 2026 – Psyllid captures still relatively high; one psyllid from last week Lso positive
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 20, 2026 by Erik Wenninger
- This week we received traps from 35 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring (the remaining fields should be delivered to us early next week).
- We captured a total of 119 psyllids spread across 16 fields.
- Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
- Of the 140 psyllids captured last week, one of them from Canyon County tested positive for Lso.
- For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
- We received traps late from one field from last week; those traps captured 3 psyllids. We expect to have results for those psyllids next week as well.
Overall psyllid captures continue to be relatively high, with captures being similar to those observed at this time in 2020 (the last time we had relatively high captures at this time). Risk of ZC continues to be moderate to low this year given this combination of moderately high psyllid captures and relatively low Lso prevalence. Much of the psyllid pressure continues to be focused in the Treasure Valley, especially Canyon County, and we did find one “hot” psyllid in this area last week. Relatively few psyllids have been captured in our Magic Valley sites, though we did see a slight uptick in captures in Twin Falls County. Psyllid captures often peak near the end of the season, likely in relation to dispersal from fields that are undergoing vine kill. We urge growers to keep their IPM programs going for areas that might be at slightly higher risk.
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
» https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
Psyllid captures slightly higher this week; one psyllid from last week Lso positive
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 13, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
• This week we received traps from all 55 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 140 psyllids spread across 23 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Gooding, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, Minidoka, Bingham, and Bannock.
• Of the 92 psyllids captured last week, one of them from Twin Falls County tested positive for Lso.
• For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
• We received one field from last week late; those traps captured 3 psyllids. We expect to have results for those psyllids next week as well.
Overall psyllid captures were slightly higher than last week, and captures were similar to those observed at this time in 2020 and 2021 (the last time we had relatively high captures). Risk of ZC continues to be moderate to low this year given this combination of moderately high psyllid captures and relatively low Lso prevalence. Psyllid captures often peak around late July to August, so we will have to see whether captures climb next week. Much of the psyllid pressure continues to be focused in the Treasure Valley. Relatively few psyllids have been captured in our Magic Valley sites. Though we have found scarcely any psyllids in the Upper Snake sites, we did capture 4 psyllids in that region this week.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
2026 Idaho Association of Plant Protection - Annual Meeting and call for topics
All Crops All Locations
General Announcement related to Agriculture
Posted on: August 10, 2026 by Kasia Duellman
Idaho Association of Plant Protection 2026 Annual
Meeting
The 2026 Idaho Association of Plant Protection (IAPP) annual meeting will be held November 4-5 at the Herrett Center at the College of Southern Idaho. The IAPP meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about plant protection. Topics will cover all aspects of plant protection including entomology, nematology, weed science, and plant pathology. 4-6 ISDA pesticide credits and CEUs are anticipated.
Registration is $30 ($20 for students). The fee is the same if you attend one or both days of the program.
More information can be found here:
https://millerresearch.com/event/2026-idaho-association-of-plant-protection/
If you have any questions, please contact the 2026 co-chairs:
- Mitchell Bauske (mitchell.bauske@bayer.com) – Industry co-chair
- Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu) – University co-chair
» https://millerresearch.com/event/2026-idaho-association-of-plant-protection/
Psyllid captures slightly lower this week; all psyllids from last week Lso negative
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 6, 2026 by Erik Wenninger
- This week we received traps from 54 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring.
- We captured a total of 92 psyllids spread across 23 fields.
- Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
- Of the 123 psyllids captured last week, none of them tested positive for Lso.
- For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Overall psyllid captures were slightly lower than last week, and captures were similar to those observed at this time in 2020 and 2021 (the last time we had relatively high captures). Thankfully, no Lso was detected in psyllids last week. Risk of ZC continues to be moderate to low this year given this combination of moderately high psyllid captures and relatively low Lso prevalence. Psyllid captures often peak around late July to August, so we will have to see whether captures climb next week. Much of the psyllid pressure continues to be focused in the Treasure Valley. Relatively few psyllids have been captured in our Magic Valley sites, and scarcely any over the season in our Upper Snake sites.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
» https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
2026 University of Idaho August Field Days and other events
All Crops All Locations
General Announcement related to Agriculture
Posted on: August 4, 2026 by Kasia Duellman
Please mark your calendars for the following events organized by University of Idaho Extension faculty and staff and forward to all who may be interested:
UI Parma Field Day
August 13
Free Registration: 7:15-8:00 AM (MDT), including breakfast, posters and displays
8:00 AM - 12:00 pm (MDT): Tour and speaker presentations
Tour includes onion, hops, sugar beets, beans, potatoes, pollinators, apples, field and orchard tours.
CCA and pesticide credits have been requested for this event.
Contact: Gina Day (gday@uidaho.edu) 208-795-5350
UI Aberdeen Field Day
August 19
Free Registration: 8:30-9:00 AM (MDT)
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM (MDT): Tour and speaker presentations
Tour includes potatoes, mustard, small grains
1 ISDA pesticide credit, 2 CCA credits
Contact: Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu) or Chad Jackson (chadj@uidaho.edu)
More information: https://sites.google.com/uidaho.edu/extensionseedpotato/events
UI Ag Talk Tuesdays
Last session for 2026: August 18 - Ag Economic Outlook with Dr. Pat Hatzenbuehler
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (MDT)
Free registration link (required to attend): https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/xJRvquC7T66Czb_qpW0A_A#/registration
More information: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/events/ag-talk
Ag Talk Tuesday YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6g6ZYcM47s85ASnhBlMHbFMD-x-zAGt6
UI Fresh Pack Potato Symposium
Nov. 17-18 at Canyon Crest Event Center in Twin Falls
Contact: Gustavo Teixeira (208-423-6678 or gteixeira@uidaho.edu)
More information: https://go.uidaho.edu/fresh-pack-potato-symposium
2026 Miller Research Potato Pest Management Field Day - August 20
All Crops All Locations
Posted on: August 4, 2026 by Jeff Miller
<p>The 2026 Miller Research Potato Pest Management field day will be Thursday, August 20 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Cost is $20. Three ISDA pesticide recertification credits and three CCA PM credits have been awarded for the meeting. Lunch will be provided. More information can be found at the website and in the attached flier.</p>
» https://millerresearch.com/event/2026-miller-research-potato-pest-management-field-day/
Psyllid captures ramping up in Treasure Valley; two Lso positive psyllids captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 30, 2026 by Erik Wenninger
- This week we received traps from all 55 fields that we are monitoring.
- We captured a total of 123 psyllids spread across 28 fields.
- Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Gooding, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
- Of the 72 psyllids captured last week, two from Canyon County tested positive for Lso.
- For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid captures this week were higher than at this time than in the last five years. However, Lso incidence is still relatively low. Overall psyllid captures continue to climb. Psyllid captures often peak around late July to August, so this is not surprising. It is notable that most of the increase in psyllid captures is from Treasure Valley sites. Risk of ZC so far looks to be moderate to low given the relatively high captures in some areas but relatively low Lso incidence.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Potato Black Dot Survey
Potato All Locations
Black dot
Posted on: July 24, 2026 by Nora Olsen
We are seeking your input on black dot. A research initiative on managing black dot is being organized and would like to know the significance of black dot to your organization, the current management practices you are using, and how well you think they are working. Please take a moment to answer these questions in this short survey:
https://ndstate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0wRJGV9gYStqIzY
The survey can also be accessed through this QR code.
Sincerely,
Jeff Miller
Ken Frost
» https://ndstate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0wRJGV9gYStqIzY
Loopers in Potato
Potato All Locations
Loopers
Posted on: July 23, 2026 by Desiree Wickwar, Erik Wenninger
Loopers have been detected in some potato fields across the state. Both cabbage looper (Trichoplusia ni) and alfalfa looper (Autographa californica) may be present, although research has shown that cabbage looper is the more common and impactful species in potato. Loopers are small caterpillars that moving in a "looping" fashion, like an inchworm. These caterpillars feed on potato foliage, chewing irregular holes and ragged leaf edges. Potatoes can sustain a considerable amount of defoliation without affecting marketable yield. The crop is most sensitive during full bloom, but even at this stage, defoliation of approximately 10% appears to cause little or no yield loss. No established economic thresholds exist, and insecticide applications are generally not warranted unless defoliation exceeds this level during bloom (and likely much higher levels later in the season).
Before making a treatment decision, confirm that loopers are actively present on the foliage. Feeding damage and frass are often more obvious than the caterpillars themselves, though loopers do remain on the foliage and can be detected during normal scouting. However, keep in mind that in some cases larvae have already pupated before damage is noticed. If treatment is necessary, choose insecticides carefully. Broad-spectrum products can wipe out beneficial insects that help suppress loopers, as well as beneficials that suppress aphids; therefore, such products can flare aphids. Accurate identification is also important: caterpillars of other species, including the highly visible cabbage white butterfly, are not a concern in potato. For more information, including insecticide options, see the PNW Insect Management Handbook page on loopers in potato: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/irish-potato/potato-irish-looper.
» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/irish-potato/potato-irish-looper
More psyllids found; one Lso positive psyllids captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 23, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
·
This week we received traps from all 55 fields that
we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 72 psyllids spread across
28 fields.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Owyhee,
Canyon, Elmore, Gooding, Jerome, Twin Falls, Minidoka, and Cassia.
·
Of the 42 psyllids captured last week, one from
Twin Falls County tested positive for Lso.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid
captures this week were higher than at this time last year, though Lso
incidence is still relatively low at this time. Psyllid captures appear to be
creeping up a bit, which is not surprising given the high temperatures and the
time of the season. Overall captures this year have so far tended to be higher
than for the last four years, but still not nearly as high as some prior years.
Risk of ZC so far looks to be moderate to low.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
More psyllids found; two Lso positive psyllids captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 16, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
·
This week we received traps from 54 fields of
the 55 fields that we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 42 psyllids spread across
17 fields.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Owyhee,
Canyon, Elmore, Jerome, Twin Falls, Minidoka, Bingham, and Bannock.
·
Of the 54 psyllids captured last week, two
tested positive for Lso.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid
captures this week were higher than at this time last year, though Lso
incidence is still low at this time.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Psyllid captures rise slightly; one Lso positive psyllid captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 9, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
·
This week we received traps from all 55 fields
that we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 54 psyllids spread across
20 fields.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Canyon,
Elmore, Jerome, Gooding, Twin Falls, Minidoka, Cassia, and Bannock.
·
Of the 26 psyllids captured last week, one
tested positive for Lso.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid
captures this week were higher than at this time last year, though Lso
incidence still seems low at this time. Stay tuned for next week’s Lso results.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
2026 Potato psyllid monitoring program underway in Idaho
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 2, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
The University
of Idaho and our crop consultant collaborators across the state are once again
monitoring potato psyllids, zebra chip disease (ZC), and liberibacter (Lso),
the bacterium associated with ZC. The monitoring program covers commercial
potato fields throughout southern Idaho and is funded largely by the Idaho
Potato Commission and generous in-kind contributions from our cooperators.
Our official
monitoring season began last week with the wide deployment of traps and will
continue for at least 10 weeks. We have 55 fields across the state this year,
using 4 sticky traps per field at all sites.
·
This week we received traps from all 55 fields
that we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 26 psyllids.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Canyon,
Elmore, Twin Falls, Minidoka, and Cassia.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
We captured
more psyllids this week than at this time last year, though not as many as the
year before. It remains to be seen what kind of pressure we’ll see this year,
so stay tuned.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Stripe rust in spring wheat
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley
Stripe rust
Posted on: June 26, 2026 by Juliet Marshall
Stripe rust is starting to show up in susceptible spring wheat varieties, WB7696 and UI Gold in eastern Idaho. This is a late-season infection, but if the crop is within the PHI for fungicide applications (up to anthesis), consider spraying susceptible varieties with a systemic fungicide. (See the attached Fungicide Efficacy table for effective fungicides. Do not use a strobilurin fungicide at this late date, due to the potential impact on increasing DON levels from Fusarium fungi.)
Much of the spring wheat crop will be post-anthesis (flowering) and in the grain fill stage, which is too late to apply fungicides.
Stripe can still cause yield loss at this late stage of crop growth, but consider economic implications, crop growth stage and host resistance. High-temperature adult plant resistance will be of limited effectiveness depending on the strain of stripe rust and the temperatures (which are going lower this weekend).
Susceptible spring wheat: WB7696, WB9707, UI Stone, UI Gold, Dagmar
Moderately Susceptible: LCS Hammer AX, UI Cookie, Jefferson, UI Platinum
Thanks to Mark Morgan and Dale Clark for reporting stripe rust in commercial and Extension variety trial fields in the area! Please report occurrences to your local UI Extension county educator or to the UI Cereals Extension Team.
Juliet
-- Juliet M. Marshall, Ph.D.
Associate Director of the Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station
Endowed Research Professor, Cereals Pathology and Agronomy
Idaho Falls R&E Center
1776 Science Center Drive Suite 205
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
208-529-8376 office
208-390-4859 cell
http://www.uidaho.edu/extension/cereals/scseidaho
Cereals Field Days - Lions and Tigers and Bears! Oh my...
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley
Stripe rust, bacterial blight, black chaff, freeze damage, soilborne diseases and viruses - all present this year
Posted on: June 26, 2026 by Juliet Marshall
The Cereals Team is hosting Cereal Field Days at the following dates and locations:
Tuesday July 7th, Rupert starting at 9:30 AM
Thursday, July 9th - ABERDEEN R&E Center - the main event! Joint UI/LCS starting at 8 AM
Friday, July 10th - Rockland dryland winter field day - Joint field day with Wheat Breeding Program
Tuesday, July 15th - Idaho Falls starting at 9:30 AM
Wednesday, July 22nd - Soda Springs - starting at 10 AM
Thursday, July 23rd - Tetonia R&E Center starting at 10 AM
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE at one event or at all ;-)
Screwworm Alert
All Crops All Locations
Screworms
Posted on: June 22, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
⚠️ LIVESTOCK ALERT: New World Screwworm Expanding
New World Screwworm (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax, is a devastating livestock pest whose larvae (maggots) feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. NWS was eradicated from the United States in 1966, but recent outbreaks have spread northward through Central America and into Mexico, raising concerns for the U.S. livestock industry.
Why This Matters
Historically, New World Screwworm cost the U.S. livestock industry more than $100 million annually before eradication. Infestations can cause severe animal welfare issues, production losses, trade restrictions, and costly eradication efforts.
While NWS has not been detected in Idaho, producers should remain vigilant and aware of the signs and symptoms. Current Status: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/current-status?page=1
Animals at Risk
- Cattle
- Sheep and goats
- Horses
- Swine
- Wildlife
- Pets
- Any warm-blooded animal, including humans
What to Look For
Inspect animals regularly and watch for:
• Maggots present in wounds
• Wounds that enlarge rapidly or fail to heal
• Foul-smelling discharge or odor of decay
• Excessive irritation or unusual behavior
• Head shaking or rubbing
• Animals separating themselves from the herd
• Reduced appetite or depression
Even small wounds, including tick bites, ear tags, branding sites, castration wounds, dehorning sites, foot lesions, and newborn umbilical cords can attract NWS flies.
What do you need to know? https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/stop-screwworm#comp-32826
Prevention
✅ Promptly treat and monitor all wounds.
✅ Reduce unnecessary procedures that create wounds during peak fly activity.
✅ Inspect livestock frequently during warm weather.
✅ Repair equipment, corrals, and fencing that may cause injuries.
✅ Work closely with your veterinarian regarding wound management and fly control.
If You Suspect New World Screwworm
Immediately contact:
- Your veterinarian
- Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA)
- USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Early detection and rapid reporting are essential for preventing establishment and spread.
Idaho Producers: Stay Prepared
Although New World Screwworm remains a southern concern, livestock movement, wildlife, pets, and travel can contribute to its spread. Increased awareness and monitoring today can help protect Idaho's livestock industry tomorrow.
For the latest updates and current detections, visit the USDA APHIS Screwworm Status Page.
Parma 2026 Field Day
All Crops All Locations
Field Day at Parma on August 13th, 2026
Posted on: June 22, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
2026 Snake River Weed Management Tour and Field Day at Kimberly, ID
All Crops All Locations
Posted on: June 12, 2026 by Nora Olsen
Please save the dates for the 2026 Snake River Weed Management Tour and Field Day:
Wednesday, June 24th - UI Kimberly Research and Extension Center, 3806 N 3600 E, Kimberly, ID 83341
Registration: 8:00 to 9:00 AM
Tour: 9 AM to noon
Followed by a sponsored lunch.
Please see the attached flyer for details.
You do not need to pre-register/ RSVP
We anticipate that three Idaho pesticide recertification credits will be available after the tour.
See the attached flyer for more information.
For questions about the tour, please contact:
Albert Adjesiwor
Ph: 2084236616
OR
Angela Jackson
amjackson@uidaho.edu
208-423-6606
Pacific Northwest Pest Alert Network – 25 Year Celebration Reminder!
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon
Posted on: May 19, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
Codling Moth Monitoring in Idaho Report - 2026
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon
Codling Moth
Posted on: May 18, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
Codling Moth Pest Alert
Idaho Orchard Monitoring Update
April-May 2026
Codling moth activity has now been detected across multiple regions of Idaho, with biofix dates established from April 20 through May 11, 2026. Monitoring efforts through the PNW Pest Alert Network and University of Idaho Extension indicate that codling moth emergence is progressing statewide, with earlier activity reported in southeastern and southwestern Idaho and later emergence occurring in northern and cooler production regions.
Biofix represents the first sustained moth capture in pheromone traps and serves as the starting point for Growing Degree Day (GDD) accumulation used to predict egg hatch and optimize management timing.
Reported Codling Moth Biofix Dates – Idaho 2026
| Location | Biofix Date | |
|---|---|---|
| Malad (83252) | April 20 | |
| Montpelier (83254) | April 20 | |
| Pocatello (83201) | April 24 | |
| Boise (Spaulding Ranch) | May 1 | |
| Twin Falls | May 2 | |
| Moscow (83843) | May 6 | |
| Sandpoint | May 8 | |
| Hope | May 10 | |
| Menan | May 11 |
What Growers Should Be Watching For
Adult codling moth flight is now underway in many Idaho orchard systems. Following biofix, degree-day accumulation becomes critical for predicting egg hatch and larval emergence. Under the standard codling moth model (50°F lower threshold; 88°F upper threshold), first egg hatch generally begins around 220–250 accumulated GDD after biofix.
Growers should:
- Continue checking pheromone traps weekly
- Begin tracking degree-day accumulations from local biofix dates
- Intensify scouting as egg hatch approaches
- Monitor fruit clusters and leaves for early larval activity
- Maintain orchard sanitation and remove infested fruit when possible
Why Biofix Matters
Codling moth development varies considerably across Idaho due to differences in elevation, temperature, and local climate conditions. Using local biofix dates and GDD accumulation provides more accurate timing for scouting and management than relying solely on calendar dates.
In warmer regions of southern Idaho, codling moth development may advance rapidly during warm weather periods. Cooler northern and higher-elevation areas may experience delayed development and later management windows.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Reminder
Effective codling moth management should combine:
- Pheromone trap monitoring
- Growing Degree Day models
- Field scouting
- Economic thresholds
- Timely management applications when necessary
Proper timing is essential because insecticide applications targeting newly hatched larvae are generally more effective than applications made after larvae enter the fruit.
Important Codling Moth GDD Benchmarks
Using the standard codling moth model:
- Lower threshold: 50°F
- Upper threshold: 88°F
Key biological events include:
- 100 DD: sustained adult flight increases
- 220–250 DD: first egg hatch begins
- 350 DD: peak early larval activity
- 500–600 DD: increasing first-generation pressure
What This Means Right Now
- Southern Idaho locations such as Boise and Twin Falls are likely already within the first egg hatch window and should intensify scouting and management timing.
- Southeastern Idaho sites like Malad and Montpelier are likely progressing into active larval emergence.
- Northern Idaho locations (Moscow, Sandpoint, Hope) are still earlier in codling moth development because of cooler spring temperatures.
The Boise monitoring site at Spaulding Ranch officially reported:
- Biofix: May 1
- Current accumulation: 262 DD (Base 50°F) as of May 8
You can track live degree-day accumulation for each location directly through the PNW Pest Alert GDD Dashboard.
For codling moth management recommendations and spray timing guidance, consult the PNW Pest Management Handbook – Codling Moth Management in Apples.
Please continue submitting local codling moth observations and biofix information to support statewide monitoring and forecasting efforts through the PNW Pest Alert Network.
First codling moth flight of 2026 (biofix) detected in Latah County
All Crops All Locations
Codling Moth
Posted on: May 16, 2026 by Samuel DeGrey
Multiple codling moths were captured in a monitoring trap in Moscow, Latah County, Idaho on May 6th, 2026.
The first detected flight date of May 6th will
serve as the biofix, or the date where we begin accumulating degree
days, for Moscow, Idaho. Degree days provide an estimate for life cycle
stages of insect pests, and can be a tool to better time management
decisions for farmers, horticultural professionals, and gardeners.
Please visit our degree day dashboard to track degree days for codling moth in Moscow - https://pnwpestalert.net/gdd/index
Please consult the Pacific Northwest Pest Management handbook for degree-day based management recommendations for codling moth - https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth .
Psyllid numbers stop climbing; eleven more Lso-positive psyllids
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: September 3, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
• This week we received traps from 40 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring; many fields have now undergone vine kill.
• We captured a total of 199 psyllids spread across 20 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
• Of the 281 psyllids captured last week, 11 tested positive for Lso. Six were from Canyon County, three were from Elmore County, and two from Twin Falls County.
• For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Overall psyllid captures continue to be relatively high, but thankfully the total captures (and captures per trap) declined relative to last week. Lso incidence has been relatively low for the most part, though we have recently seen several “hot” psyllids from the Treasure and Magic valleys. Canyon, Elmore, and Twin Falls counties have tended to have the most psyllids and the most Lso-positive psyllids in recent weeks. The high captures last week were likely related to psyllids dispersing from senescing fields, and the more moderate captures this week were likely related to cooler temperatures. We urge growers to keep their IPM programs going, especially for areas that might be at slightly higher risk. In our research with Russet Burbank, tubers still have some risk of showing ZC symptoms in storage if infection occurs within 1-2 weeks before vine kill.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Final call for topics - 2026 IAPP Annual Meeting
All Crops All Locations
Posted on: September 2, 2026 by Kasia Duellman
Hello All,
This is the final call for topics for the annual meeting of the Idaho Association of Plant Protection. The 2026 IAPP meeting will be held Wednesday, November 4 to Thursday, November 5 at the Herrett Center for Arts & Science on the College of Southern Idaho campus in Twin Falls. We hope you can join us!
Pesticide credits for Idaho and CEUs for certified crop advisors are anticipated.
Deadline for topics: September 15
If you would like to share data or observations related to crop protection, we invite you to submit a presentation topic. Please provide a title and a brief description (3-4 sentences) of what you would like to present and send to one of the 2026 Co-Chairs via email.
Industry Co-Chair:
Mitchell Bauske, mitchell.bauske@bayer.com, (208) 501-6330
University Co-Chair:
Kasia Duellman, kduellman@uidaho.edu, (208) 757-5476
More information can be found here:
https://millerresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IAPP-2026-Meeting-Invitation.pdf
The topic submission form can be found here:
https://sites.google.com/uidaho.edu/extensionseedpotato/events
» https://millerresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IAPP-2026-Meeting-Invitation.pdf
» https://sites.google.com/uidaho.edu/extensionseedpotato/events
Watch for Armyworms in Treasure Valley Lawns
All Crops Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon
Armyworm, Order Lepidoptera: Family Noctuidae
Posted on: August 31, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
A homeowner in Kuna recently reported large numbers of caterpillars in a lawn following accidental flooding, along with noticeable turf injury. The caterpillars appear consistent with armyworms, although species identification has not yet been confirmed. Homeowners and landscape professionals in the Treasure Valley are encouraged to inspect lawns showing unusual thinning, browning, or rapidly developing patches of damaged grass.
What to Look For
Armyworms are the caterpillar stage of noctuid moths and feed primarily on foliage. Depending on the species and age, larvae may be green, tan, brown, gray, or nearly black and often have distinct longitudinal stripes along the body. Mature larvae of some species may reach approximately 1½–2 inches long.
Armyworms get their name from their tendency, when populations are high, to move together across vegetation in large numbers.
- Numerous caterpillars in or near the turf
- Ragged, chewed, or closely clipped grass blades
- Brown or thinning patches that may initially resemble drought or heat stress
- Damage that appears to expand rapidly across the lawn
- Caterpillars hiding near the soil surface or in thatch during the day
- Increased bird activity in the lawn, which may indicate abundant caterpillars
Armyworms frequently feed during the evening and nighttime, so scouting around dusk or early morning may make them easier to find.
How to Scout
Inspect both the damaged turf and the green turf immediately bordering damaged areas. Separate the grass canopy and examine the thatch and soil surface for caterpillars.
A simple soap-flush method can also help bring turf-feeding caterpillars to the surface. The PNW Pest Management Handbook recommends a soap-flush scouting method for caterpillar pests of turfgrass. Apply a dilute solution of lemon-scented dish soap and water to a small section of turf and watch for several minutes for caterpillars emerging from the thatch.
If you find caterpillars, collect several specimens or take clear photographs showing the head and markings along the body for identification (https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/horticulture/insect-id).
Correct identification is important because armyworms can be confused with cutworms and sod webworms.
Management
Do not automatically treat simply because caterpillars are present. Armyworms have many natural enemies, including predatory insects, parasitic wasps and flies, and naturally occurring pathogens. Unnecessary broad-spectrum insecticide applications can disrupt these beneficial organisms.
For lawns with limited injury, continue scouting and maintain appropriate turf health. Avoid excessive irrigation or prolonged saturated conditions and manage excessive thatch where present.
If caterpillars are numerous and turf injury is actively expanding, management may be warranted. Biological insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be useful against young caterpillars, and some spinosad products are also available for caterpillar management. Effectiveness depends on larval size, application timing, and whether the product is labeled for the intended turfgrass site.
Because many armyworm larvae are most active after dark, applications targeting actively feeding larvae are generally most effective during the late afternoon or evening.
Before applying any pesticide, confirm the pest and read and follow the pesticide label. The application site such as residential turf must be listed on the product label.
Why Scout Now?
Armyworm populations can develop quickly, and larger larvae consume substantially more foliage than younger larvae. Early detection provides more time to confirm the pest, evaluate the amount of injury, conserve natural enemies, and determine whether treatment is actually necessary.
Treasure Valley homeowners and landscape professionals who notice large numbers of caterpillars or rapidly developing turf damage are encouraged to scout and document what they are seeing.
Resources: University of Idaho Extension, Integrated Pest Management of Armyworms (BUL 1063) https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/outputs/report/IPM-of-Armyworms/996749725401851 and the Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbooks https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/hort/landscape/common/landscape-cutworm-fruitworm-armyworm
Psyllid captures climb; two psyllids from last week Lso positive
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 27, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
• This week we received traps from 38 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring; many fields have now undergone vine kill.
• We captured a total of 281 psyllids spread across 23 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
• Of the 116 psyllids captured last week, two of them from Canyon County tested positive for Lso.
• For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Overall psyllid captures continue to be relatively high, and captures per trap were notably higher this week than for the same time during the previous several seasons. Thankfully, Lso incidence has been relatively low for the most part, though there have been some positives over the last two weeks in Canyon County. The increased abundance of psyllids this week is also somewhat localized, with most psyllids captured in Canyon, Elmore, and Twin Falls counties. We urge growers to keep their IPM programs going, especially for areas that might be at slightly higher risk. In our research with Russet Burbank, tubers still have some risk of showing ZC symptoms in storage if infection occurs within 1-2 weeks before vine kill.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
August 20, 2026 – Psyllid captures still relatively high; one psyllid from last week Lso positive
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 20, 2026 by Erik Wenninger
- This week we received traps from 35 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring (the remaining fields should be delivered to us early next week).
- We captured a total of 119 psyllids spread across 16 fields.
- Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
- Of the 140 psyllids captured last week, one of them from Canyon County tested positive for Lso.
- For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
- We received traps late from one field from last week; those traps captured 3 psyllids. We expect to have results for those psyllids next week as well.
Overall psyllid captures continue to be relatively high, with captures being similar to those observed at this time in 2020 (the last time we had relatively high captures at this time). Risk of ZC continues to be moderate to low this year given this combination of moderately high psyllid captures and relatively low Lso prevalence. Much of the psyllid pressure continues to be focused in the Treasure Valley, especially Canyon County, and we did find one “hot” psyllid in this area last week. Relatively few psyllids have been captured in our Magic Valley sites, though we did see a slight uptick in captures in Twin Falls County. Psyllid captures often peak near the end of the season, likely in relation to dispersal from fields that are undergoing vine kill. We urge growers to keep their IPM programs going for areas that might be at slightly higher risk.
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
» https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
Psyllid captures slightly higher this week; one psyllid from last week Lso positive
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 13, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
• This week we received traps from all 55 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 140 psyllids spread across 23 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Gooding, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, Minidoka, Bingham, and Bannock.
• Of the 92 psyllids captured last week, one of them from Twin Falls County tested positive for Lso.
• For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
• We received one field from last week late; those traps captured 3 psyllids. We expect to have results for those psyllids next week as well.
Overall psyllid captures were slightly higher than last week, and captures were similar to those observed at this time in 2020 and 2021 (the last time we had relatively high captures). Risk of ZC continues to be moderate to low this year given this combination of moderately high psyllid captures and relatively low Lso prevalence. Psyllid captures often peak around late July to August, so we will have to see whether captures climb next week. Much of the psyllid pressure continues to be focused in the Treasure Valley. Relatively few psyllids have been captured in our Magic Valley sites. Though we have found scarcely any psyllids in the Upper Snake sites, we did capture 4 psyllids in that region this week.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
2026 Idaho Association of Plant Protection - Annual Meeting and call for topics
All Crops All Locations
General Announcement related to Agriculture
Posted on: August 10, 2026 by Kasia Duellman
Idaho Association of Plant Protection 2026 Annual
Meeting
The 2026 Idaho Association of Plant Protection (IAPP) annual meeting will be held November 4-5 at the Herrett Center at the College of Southern Idaho. The IAPP meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about plant protection. Topics will cover all aspects of plant protection including entomology, nematology, weed science, and plant pathology. 4-6 ISDA pesticide credits and CEUs are anticipated.
Registration is $30 ($20 for students). The fee is the same if you attend one or both days of the program.
More information can be found here:
https://millerresearch.com/event/2026-idaho-association-of-plant-protection/
If you have any questions, please contact the 2026 co-chairs:
- Mitchell Bauske (mitchell.bauske@bayer.com) – Industry co-chair
- Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu) – University co-chair
» https://millerresearch.com/event/2026-idaho-association-of-plant-protection/
Psyllid captures slightly lower this week; all psyllids from last week Lso negative
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: August 6, 2026 by Erik Wenninger
- This week we received traps from 54 of the 55 fields that we are monitoring.
- We captured a total of 92 psyllids spread across 23 fields.
- Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
- Of the 123 psyllids captured last week, none of them tested positive for Lso.
- For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Overall psyllid captures were slightly lower than last week, and captures were similar to those observed at this time in 2020 and 2021 (the last time we had relatively high captures). Thankfully, no Lso was detected in psyllids last week. Risk of ZC continues to be moderate to low this year given this combination of moderately high psyllid captures and relatively low Lso prevalence. Psyllid captures often peak around late July to August, so we will have to see whether captures climb next week. Much of the psyllid pressure continues to be focused in the Treasure Valley. Relatively few psyllids have been captured in our Magic Valley sites, and scarcely any over the season in our Upper Snake sites.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through the current week and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
» https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
2026 University of Idaho August Field Days and other events
All Crops All Locations
General Announcement related to Agriculture
Posted on: August 4, 2026 by Kasia Duellman
Please mark your calendars for the following events organized by University of Idaho Extension faculty and staff and forward to all who may be interested:
UI Parma Field Day
August 13
Free Registration: 7:15-8:00 AM (MDT), including breakfast, posters and displays
8:00 AM - 12:00 pm (MDT): Tour and speaker presentations
Tour includes onion, hops, sugar beets, beans, potatoes, pollinators, apples, field and orchard tours.
CCA and pesticide credits have been requested for this event.
Contact: Gina Day (gday@uidaho.edu) 208-795-5350
UI Aberdeen Field Day
August 19
Free Registration: 8:30-9:00 AM (MDT)
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM (MDT): Tour and speaker presentations
Tour includes potatoes, mustard, small grains
1 ISDA pesticide credit, 2 CCA credits
Contact: Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu) or Chad Jackson (chadj@uidaho.edu)
More information: https://sites.google.com/uidaho.edu/extensionseedpotato/events
UI Ag Talk Tuesdays
Last session for 2026: August 18 - Ag Economic Outlook with Dr. Pat Hatzenbuehler
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (MDT)
Free registration link (required to attend): https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/xJRvquC7T66Czb_qpW0A_A#/registration
More information: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/events/ag-talk
Ag Talk Tuesday YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6g6ZYcM47s85ASnhBlMHbFMD-x-zAGt6
UI Fresh Pack Potato Symposium
Nov. 17-18 at Canyon Crest Event Center in Twin Falls
Contact: Gustavo Teixeira (208-423-6678 or gteixeira@uidaho.edu)
More information: https://go.uidaho.edu/fresh-pack-potato-symposium
2026 Miller Research Potato Pest Management Field Day - August 20
All Crops All Locations
Posted on: August 4, 2026 by Jeff Miller
<p>The 2026 Miller Research Potato Pest Management field day will be Thursday, August 20 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Cost is $20. Three ISDA pesticide recertification credits and three CCA PM credits have been awarded for the meeting. Lunch will be provided. More information can be found at the website and in the attached flier.</p>
» https://millerresearch.com/event/2026-miller-research-potato-pest-management-field-day/
Psyllid captures ramping up in Treasure Valley; two Lso positive psyllids captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 30, 2026 by Erik Wenninger
- This week we received traps from all 55 fields that we are monitoring.
- We captured a total of 123 psyllids spread across 28 fields.
- Captures were from the following counties: Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Gooding, Jerome, Twin Falls, Cassia, and Minidoka.
- Of the 72 psyllids captured last week, two from Canyon County tested positive for Lso.
- For psyllids captured this week, we expect to have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid captures this week were higher than at this time than in the last five years. However, Lso incidence is still relatively low. Overall psyllid captures continue to climb. Psyllid captures often peak around late July to August, so this is not surprising. It is notable that most of the increase in psyllid captures is from Treasure Valley sites. Risk of ZC so far looks to be moderate to low given the relatively high captures in some areas but relatively low Lso incidence.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Potato Black Dot Survey
Potato All Locations
Black dot
Posted on: July 24, 2026 by Nora Olsen
We are seeking your input on black dot. A research initiative on managing black dot is being organized and would like to know the significance of black dot to your organization, the current management practices you are using, and how well you think they are working. Please take a moment to answer these questions in this short survey:
https://ndstate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0wRJGV9gYStqIzY
The survey can also be accessed through this QR code.
Sincerely,
Jeff Miller
Ken Frost
» https://ndstate.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0wRJGV9gYStqIzY
Loopers in Potato
Potato All Locations
Loopers
Posted on: July 23, 2026 by Desiree Wickwar, Erik Wenninger
Loopers have been detected in some potato fields across the state. Both cabbage looper (Trichoplusia ni) and alfalfa looper (Autographa californica) may be present, although research has shown that cabbage looper is the more common and impactful species in potato. Loopers are small caterpillars that moving in a "looping" fashion, like an inchworm. These caterpillars feed on potato foliage, chewing irregular holes and ragged leaf edges. Potatoes can sustain a considerable amount of defoliation without affecting marketable yield. The crop is most sensitive during full bloom, but even at this stage, defoliation of approximately 10% appears to cause little or no yield loss. No established economic thresholds exist, and insecticide applications are generally not warranted unless defoliation exceeds this level during bloom (and likely much higher levels later in the season).
Before making a treatment decision, confirm that loopers are actively present on the foliage. Feeding damage and frass are often more obvious than the caterpillars themselves, though loopers do remain on the foliage and can be detected during normal scouting. However, keep in mind that in some cases larvae have already pupated before damage is noticed. If treatment is necessary, choose insecticides carefully. Broad-spectrum products can wipe out beneficial insects that help suppress loopers, as well as beneficials that suppress aphids; therefore, such products can flare aphids. Accurate identification is also important: caterpillars of other species, including the highly visible cabbage white butterfly, are not a concern in potato. For more information, including insecticide options, see the PNW Insect Management Handbook page on loopers in potato: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/irish-potato/potato-irish-looper.
» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/irish-potato/potato-irish-looper
More psyllids found; one Lso positive psyllids captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 23, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
·
This week we received traps from all 55 fields that
we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 72 psyllids spread across
28 fields.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Owyhee,
Canyon, Elmore, Gooding, Jerome, Twin Falls, Minidoka, and Cassia.
·
Of the 42 psyllids captured last week, one from
Twin Falls County tested positive for Lso.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid
captures this week were higher than at this time last year, though Lso
incidence is still relatively low at this time. Psyllid captures appear to be
creeping up a bit, which is not surprising given the high temperatures and the
time of the season. Overall captures this year have so far tended to be higher
than for the last four years, but still not nearly as high as some prior years.
Risk of ZC so far looks to be moderate to low.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
More psyllids found; two Lso positive psyllids captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 16, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
·
This week we received traps from 54 fields of
the 55 fields that we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 42 psyllids spread across
17 fields.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Owyhee,
Canyon, Elmore, Jerome, Twin Falls, Minidoka, Bingham, and Bannock.
·
Of the 54 psyllids captured last week, two
tested positive for Lso.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid
captures this week were higher than at this time last year, though Lso
incidence is still low at this time.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Psyllid captures rise slightly; one Lso positive psyllid captured last week
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 9, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
·
This week we received traps from all 55 fields
that we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 54 psyllids spread across
20 fields.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Canyon,
Elmore, Jerome, Gooding, Twin Falls, Minidoka, Cassia, and Bannock.
·
Of the 26 psyllids captured last week, one
tested positive for Lso.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
Psyllid
captures this week were higher than at this time last year, though Lso
incidence still seems low at this time. Stay tuned for next week’s Lso results.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
2026 Potato psyllid monitoring program underway in Idaho
Potato All Locations
potato psyllid
Posted on: July 2, 2026 by Tasha Stanzak
The University
of Idaho and our crop consultant collaborators across the state are once again
monitoring potato psyllids, zebra chip disease (ZC), and liberibacter (Lso),
the bacterium associated with ZC. The monitoring program covers commercial
potato fields throughout southern Idaho and is funded largely by the Idaho
Potato Commission and generous in-kind contributions from our cooperators.
Our official
monitoring season began last week with the wide deployment of traps and will
continue for at least 10 weeks. We have 55 fields across the state this year,
using 4 sticky traps per field at all sites.
·
This week we received traps from all 55 fields
that we are monitoring.
·
We captured a total of 26 psyllids.
·
Captures were from the following counties: Canyon,
Elmore, Twin Falls, Minidoka, and Cassia.
·
For psyllids captured this week, we expect to
have results on Lso incidence next week.
We captured
more psyllids this week than at this time last year, though not as many as the
year before. It remains to be seen what kind of pressure we’ll see this year,
so stay tuned.
More information on
management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/food/ipm/ag-pests/psyllids
To view the
weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit
the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid
captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as
the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/
Stripe rust in spring wheat
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley
Stripe rust
Posted on: June 26, 2026 by Juliet Marshall
Stripe rust is starting to show up in susceptible spring wheat varieties, WB7696 and UI Gold in eastern Idaho. This is a late-season infection, but if the crop is within the PHI for fungicide applications (up to anthesis), consider spraying susceptible varieties with a systemic fungicide. (See the attached Fungicide Efficacy table for effective fungicides. Do not use a strobilurin fungicide at this late date, due to the potential impact on increasing DON levels from Fusarium fungi.)
Much of the spring wheat crop will be post-anthesis (flowering) and in the grain fill stage, which is too late to apply fungicides.
Stripe can still cause yield loss at this late stage of crop growth, but consider economic implications, crop growth stage and host resistance. High-temperature adult plant resistance will be of limited effectiveness depending on the strain of stripe rust and the temperatures (which are going lower this weekend).
Susceptible spring wheat: WB7696, WB9707, UI Stone, UI Gold, Dagmar
Moderately Susceptible: LCS Hammer AX, UI Cookie, Jefferson, UI Platinum
Thanks to Mark Morgan and Dale Clark for reporting stripe rust in commercial and Extension variety trial fields in the area! Please report occurrences to your local UI Extension county educator or to the UI Cereals Extension Team.
Juliet
-- Juliet M. Marshall, Ph.D.
Associate Director of the Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station
Endowed Research Professor, Cereals Pathology and Agronomy
Idaho Falls R&E Center
1776 Science Center Drive Suite 205
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
208-529-8376 office
208-390-4859 cell
http://www.uidaho.edu/extension/cereals/scseidaho
» NCRA184_Wheat_fungicide_table_2026_FINAL.pdf
Cereals Field Days - Lions and Tigers and Bears! Oh my...
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley
Stripe rust, bacterial blight, black chaff, freeze damage, soilborne diseases and viruses - all present this year
Posted on: June 26, 2026 by Juliet Marshall
The Cereals Team is hosting Cereal Field Days at the following dates and locations:
Tuesday July 7th, Rupert starting at 9:30 AM
Thursday, July 9th - ABERDEEN R&E Center - the main event! Joint UI/LCS starting at 8 AM
Friday, July 10th - Rockland dryland winter field day - Joint field day with Wheat Breeding Program
Tuesday, July 15th - Idaho Falls starting at 9:30 AM
Wednesday, July 22nd - Soda Springs - starting at 10 AM
Thursday, July 23rd - Tetonia R&E Center starting at 10 AM
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE at one event or at all ;-)
» UI_Extension_2026_Cereals_Field_Days.pdf
Screwworm Alert
All Crops All Locations
Screworms
Posted on: June 22, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
⚠️ LIVESTOCK ALERT: New World Screwworm Expanding
New World Screwworm (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax, is a devastating livestock pest whose larvae (maggots) feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. NWS was eradicated from the United States in 1966, but recent outbreaks have spread northward through Central America and into Mexico, raising concerns for the U.S. livestock industry.
Why This Matters
Historically, New World Screwworm cost the U.S. livestock industry more than $100 million annually before eradication. Infestations can cause severe animal welfare issues, production losses, trade restrictions, and costly eradication efforts.
While NWS has not been detected in Idaho, producers should remain vigilant and aware of the signs and symptoms. Current Status: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/current-status?page=1
Animals at Risk
- Cattle
- Sheep and goats
- Horses
- Swine
- Wildlife
- Pets
- Any warm-blooded animal, including humans
What to Look For
Inspect animals regularly and watch for:
• Maggots present in wounds
• Wounds that enlarge rapidly or fail to heal
• Foul-smelling discharge or odor of decay
• Excessive irritation or unusual behavior
• Head shaking or rubbing
• Animals separating themselves from the herd
• Reduced appetite or depression
Even small wounds, including tick bites, ear tags, branding sites, castration wounds, dehorning sites, foot lesions, and newborn umbilical cords can attract NWS flies.
What do you need to know? https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animals/animal-health/livestock-and-poultry-disease/stop-screwworm#comp-32826
Prevention
✅ Promptly treat and monitor all wounds.
✅ Reduce unnecessary procedures that create wounds during peak fly activity.
✅ Inspect livestock frequently during warm weather.
✅ Repair equipment, corrals, and fencing that may cause injuries.
✅ Work closely with your veterinarian regarding wound management and fly control.
If You Suspect New World Screwworm
Immediately contact:
- Your veterinarian
- Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA)
- USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Early detection and rapid reporting are essential for preventing establishment and spread.
Idaho Producers: Stay Prepared
Although New World Screwworm remains a southern concern, livestock movement, wildlife, pets, and travel can contribute to its spread. Increased awareness and monitoring today can help protect Idaho's livestock industry tomorrow.
For the latest updates and current detections, visit the USDA APHIS Screwworm Status Page.
Parma 2026 Field Day
All Crops All Locations
Field Day at Parma on August 13th, 2026
Posted on: June 22, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
» Parma_Field_Day_-_2026_-_3.pdf
2026 Snake River Weed Management Tour and Field Day at Kimberly, ID
All Crops All Locations
Posted on: June 12, 2026 by Nora Olsen
Please save the dates for the 2026 Snake River Weed Management Tour and Field Day:
Wednesday, June 24th - UI Kimberly Research and Extension Center, 3806 N 3600 E, Kimberly, ID 83341
Registration: 8:00 to 9:00 AM
Tour: 9 AM to noon
Followed by a sponsored lunch.
Please see the attached flyer for details.
You do not need to pre-register/ RSVP
We anticipate that three Idaho pesticide recertification credits will be available after the tour.
See the attached flyer for more information.
For questions about the tour, please contact:
Albert Adjesiwor
Ph: 2084236616
OR
Angela Jackson
amjackson@uidaho.edu
208-423-6606
Pacific Northwest Pest Alert Network – 25 Year Celebration Reminder!
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon
Posted on: May 19, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
» 25th_Celebration_PNW_Pest_Alert_Network.jpg
Codling Moth Monitoring in Idaho Report - 2026
All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon
Codling Moth
Posted on: May 18, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa
Codling Moth Pest Alert
Idaho Orchard Monitoring Update
April-May 2026
Codling moth activity has now been detected across multiple regions of Idaho, with biofix dates established from April 20 through May 11, 2026. Monitoring efforts through the PNW Pest Alert Network and University of Idaho Extension indicate that codling moth emergence is progressing statewide, with earlier activity reported in southeastern and southwestern Idaho and later emergence occurring in northern and cooler production regions.
Biofix represents the first sustained moth capture in pheromone traps and serves as the starting point for Growing Degree Day (GDD) accumulation used to predict egg hatch and optimize management timing.
Reported Codling Moth Biofix Dates – Idaho 2026
| Location | Biofix Date | |
|---|---|---|
| Malad (83252) | April 20 | |
| Montpelier (83254) | April 20 | |
| Pocatello (83201) | April 24 | |
| Boise (Spaulding Ranch) | May 1 | |
| Twin Falls | May 2 | |
| Moscow (83843) | May 6 | |
| Sandpoint | May 8 | |
| Hope | May 10 | |
| Menan | May 11 |
What Growers Should Be Watching For
Adult codling moth flight is now underway in many Idaho orchard systems. Following biofix, degree-day accumulation becomes critical for predicting egg hatch and larval emergence. Under the standard codling moth model (50°F lower threshold; 88°F upper threshold), first egg hatch generally begins around 220–250 accumulated GDD after biofix.
Growers should:
- Continue checking pheromone traps weekly
- Begin tracking degree-day accumulations from local biofix dates
- Intensify scouting as egg hatch approaches
- Monitor fruit clusters and leaves for early larval activity
- Maintain orchard sanitation and remove infested fruit when possible
Why Biofix Matters
Codling moth development varies considerably across Idaho due to differences in elevation, temperature, and local climate conditions. Using local biofix dates and GDD accumulation provides more accurate timing for scouting and management than relying solely on calendar dates.
In warmer regions of southern Idaho, codling moth development may advance rapidly during warm weather periods. Cooler northern and higher-elevation areas may experience delayed development and later management windows.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Reminder
Effective codling moth management should combine:
- Pheromone trap monitoring
- Growing Degree Day models
- Field scouting
- Economic thresholds
- Timely management applications when necessary
Proper timing is essential because insecticide applications targeting newly hatched larvae are generally more effective than applications made after larvae enter the fruit.
Important Codling Moth GDD Benchmarks
Using the standard codling moth model:
- Lower threshold: 50°F
- Upper threshold: 88°F
Key biological events include:
- 100 DD: sustained adult flight increases
- 220–250 DD: first egg hatch begins
- 350 DD: peak early larval activity
- 500–600 DD: increasing first-generation pressure
What This Means Right Now
- Southern Idaho locations such as Boise and Twin Falls are likely already within the first egg hatch window and should intensify scouting and management timing.
- Southeastern Idaho sites like Malad and Montpelier are likely progressing into active larval emergence.
- Northern Idaho locations (Moscow, Sandpoint, Hope) are still earlier in codling moth development because of cooler spring temperatures.
The Boise monitoring site at Spaulding Ranch officially reported:
- Biofix: May 1
- Current accumulation: 262 DD (Base 50°F) as of May 8
You can track live degree-day accumulation for each location directly through the PNW Pest Alert GDD Dashboard.
For codling moth management recommendations and spray timing guidance, consult the PNW Pest Management Handbook – Codling Moth Management in Apples.
Please continue submitting local codling moth observations and biofix information to support statewide monitoring and forecasting efforts through the PNW Pest Alert Network.
First codling moth flight of 2026 (biofix) detected in Latah County
All Crops All Locations
Codling Moth
Posted on: May 16, 2026 by Samuel DeGrey
Multiple codling moths were captured in a monitoring trap in Moscow, Latah County, Idaho on May 6th, 2026.
The first detected flight date of May 6th will
serve as the biofix, or the date where we begin accumulating degree
days, for Moscow, Idaho. Degree days provide an estimate for life cycle
stages of insect pests, and can be a tool to better time management
decisions for farmers, horticultural professionals, and gardeners.
Please visit our degree day dashboard to track degree days for codling moth in Moscow - https://pnwpestalert.net/gdd/index
Please consult the Pacific Northwest Pest Management handbook for degree-day based management recommendations for codling moth - https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth .
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