Low wheat midge threat boosts North Dakota farms

By Scout Nelson

Great news for wheat growers in North Dakota! The state's agricultural experts have found that the threat from wheat midge, a common pest, will be minimal in the 2024 growing season.

Janet Knodel, an expert at North Dakota State University Extension, shares insights from recent soil samples showing low wheat midge larvae counts. This means less worry and lower management costs for farmers.

In an extensive survey covering 22 counties, only a small fraction of fields showed any presence of wheat midge larvae. Most areas, especially key wheat-growing regions, reported virtually no threat.

This trend is a silver lining of the recent dry weather patterns, which, while challenging in other ways, have helped keep wheat midge numbers down.

The drought affects wheat midge in several ways. It hinders the larvae's ability to survive winter and makes them more vulnerable to predators.

The dry soil prevents them from preparing for overwintering effectively. These conditions contribute to the low populations seen for the fourth consecutive year.

Knodel emphasizes the importance of continued observance, especially in areas with continuous wheat cultivation or when weather conditions become more favorable for the pest.

The use of the wheat midige degree-day model, available on the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network website, is recommended for predicting potential outbreaks and timing scouting activities.

While the news is generally positive, farmers are reminded to stay alert during critical wheat growth stages. Fortunately, the economic thresholds for action remain clear, helping guide decisions on pest management.

The natural balance of the ecosystem is also highlighted by the low occurrence of parasitic wasps, which depend on wheat midge for survival. This natural control mechanism's effectiveness fluctuates with the midge populations, underscoring the interconnectedness of agricultural ecosystems.

The findings, supported by the North Dakota Wheat Commission, are a clear sign of the hard work of NDSU Extension and local county agents in protecting the state's wheat industry.

This year, North Dakota's wheat farmers can breathe a little easier, thanks to nature's hand in keeping one of their pests at bay.

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