Grim Grasshopper Forecast: Stockgrowers to Host Informational Webinar on Issue

January 17, 2024 - As the grasshopper forecast for 2024 continues to raise concerns for producers across the state, the Montana Stockgrowers Association is taking action. MSGA in coordination with USDA-APHIS has scheduled two webinars for agency experts to educate members on the opportunities available to mitigate the negative effects of an elevated grasshopper population. 

MSGA will offer two opportunities for ranchers to participate. Webinars will take place on Monday, January 22 at 6:00 p.m. and the second on Tuesday, January 30 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting content will be the same for both. Following the detailed presentation there will be time for Q & A.

“With many indicators forecasting extreme grasshopper populations for this upcoming season, MSGA is aiming to provide ranchers across the state the most timely and relevant information possible to assist landowners in making the best decisions for their operations,” shared Raylee Honeycutt, MSGA Executive Vice President.

It is critical that producers who expect to face extreme grasshopper damage, communicate and coordinate their need for treatment as soon as possible with the agency. In order for USDA-APHIS to secure enough funding to manage the elevated insect numbers, it has been requested that anticipated acres requiring treatment are submitted before the end of January. The webinars will include information on how to submit a request. 

It is critical that producers who expect to face extreme grasshopper damage, communicate and coordinate their need for treatment as soon as possible with the agency. In order for USDA-APHIS to secure enough funding to manage the elevated insect numbers, it has been requested that anticipated acres requiring treatment are submitted before the end of January. The webinars will include information on how to submit a request. 

Each informational webinar is intended to give producers the tools necessary to stay ahead of the problem. Each meeting will focus on grasshopper biology and population and the USDA Rangeland Grasshopper Suppression Program. Gary Adams, Montana’s State Plant Health Director, who has more than 35-years with APHIS’ Plant Protection and Quarantine office in Montana will be discussing grasshopper management options in rangeland; available treatments and their limitations, and existing federal spraying programs and private cost share options. 

Click to register: 

https://bit.ly/grasshopperJan22

https://bit.ly/grasshopperJan30

To learn more about the Montana Stockgrowers Association visit www.mtbeef.org/news.

Source: MSGA, Western Ag Network