Soybean Cyst Nematode Keeps Spreading, Economic Losses Increasing
Joshua Putman, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

-Information provided my Julianne Johnston, The SCN Coalition-
"In just the past three years, soybean cyst nematode (SCN) has spread to 55 new U.S. counties in 11 states," says Dr. Greg Tylka, Iowa State University (ISU) nematologist and co-leader of The SCN Coalition. "SCN is now widespread in New York," says Dr. Gary Bergstrom. "Soybean growers are fortunate that in most fields where SCN has been detected, population densities are low, although it's concerning that a few counties had higher numbers." Growers are asking questions about SCN-resistant varieties, nematicide seed treatments, and soil testing for SCN. In 2020, researchers concluded that from 1996 to 2016, SCN caused yield losses of $32 billion dollars; averaging $1.5 billion annually. Research and sampling will be continued into the 2021 growing season in SWNY and throughout the state.
Upcoming Events
MILKING IT: Moving Milk Quality Forward
April 14, 2026
Springville, NY
April 14th from 11am-1pm
Education sessions by:
- CCE SWNY Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops
- Springville Veterinary Services, P.C.
- Quality Milk Production Services
New York Application for Dairy of Distinction
April 15, 2026
Purpose of Program
Attractive dairy farms give the consumer greater confidence in the wholesomeness of milk and stimulate milk sales which encourages public support of the dairy industry. The award gives recognition to the dairy farmer for maintaining a well-kept farmstead.
Virtual Egg Count Training for Sheep and Goats
April 23, 2026 : Virtual Fecal Egg Count Training for Sheep and Goats
Amy Barkley and Rachel Moody, Livestock Specialists with Cornell Cooperative Extension, will take attendees through the why, how, and interpretation of fecal egg count testing for sheep and goats using the McMaster method.
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