2015 Western Bean Cutworm Risk

Accumulated growing degree days are now at a point where corn fields across the corn-growing region are beginning to tassel especially along and south of I-80. With tasseling corn and ear growth comes the potential for insect-related crop damage in some fields.Western bean cutworms are now beginning to emerge and take flight, especially across portions of the central Plains and upper Midwest/Great Lakes region where this particular insect is most prevalent. As the crop continues to develop ears, growers should monitor local western bean cutworm trap counts and take appropriate action, if needed, where moth presence is high and subsequently where egg-laying is most likely to occur. Damage from this insect can be sporadic in nature, so assessments of local versus regional populations is recommended in the next several weeks as the annual western bean cutworm flight takes shape and becomes more intense.