Managing Corn Rootworm and a New Control Option for New York Farmers
Joshua Putman, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program
Across the U.S. and within NY, corn rootworm (CRW) is developing resistance to the Bt-Rootworm traits in our corn hybrids, causing increased root damage and decreasing yields. Yield losses from CRW root feeding can surpass 10% without any above ground symptoms, making this type of loss difficult to detect. Dr. Elson Shields, Field Crops Entomologist with Cornell University, has been working with a biocontrol nematode to combat alfalfa snout beetle in Northern NY and most recently, to battle CRW in the state. "New York research data indicates a single soil inoculation establishes these NY adapted biocontrol nematodes in the soil profile for many years, where they attack a wide range of pest soil insects across a wide variety of crops. During the corn years, these biocontrol nematodes attack rootworm larvae and during the alfalfa years, attack wireworms, white grubs, clover root curculio feeding on the alfalfa and grass in the field" says Shields. With 2020 harvest coming to an end, did you notice any fields of lodged corn? Contact Josh Putman if interested in learning more about this yield-robbing pest.
Upcoming Events
2025 NYBPA Annual Conference & Membership Meeting
January 24 - January 25, 2025
East Syracuse, NY
The 2025 Annual Conference starts Friday afternoon with a cash bar, registration, and annual membership meeting. Dinner to follow with keynote speaker Kevin Ochsner, Beef Farm of Excellence Awards Presentation, and Supreme Show Program Sponsorship auction. Trade show and silent auction to benefit the Jr Scholarship Fund all weekend long. Saturday starts with the trade show and breakfast at 8:00AM followed by speakers at 8:30AM. Lunch includes the Annual NYBPA Awards and Junior Awards Program. Hotel accommodations can be found below. Be sure to book your room today!
Setting Your Farm Financial Resolutions - Erie County
January 25, 2025
East Aurora, NY
The start of a new year is the perfect time for farm businesses of all shapes and sizes to reset their financial management. Join this INTERACTIVE workshop to start your farm off on the right path towards financial success in 2025.
Topics include: Record Keeping, Tax Management, Financial Goals, and Strategies for Profitability.
Participants will receive handouts that can be used throughout the year and a quarterly farm financial checklist.
Untangling Land Rental Rates, Ag Districts and Leasing Considerations
January 29, 2025 : Free Webinar hosted by CCE Broome
Join us on January 29th for this informative webinar with Farm Business Management Specialist, Katelyn Walley at 5:30 pm.
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