Black cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon) is an occasional pest of corn and soybean in Iowa. This insect cannot overwinter here, so spring storms deliver moths to Iowa each year. Because they are migratory, their occurrence in the state is sporadic, and scouting is essential to determine whether fields require treatment for black cutworm larvae. Trapping for moths is a relatively simple way to understand which regions may be at higher risk and predict when larvae may be active in fields.

Outside of northwest Iowa, which has missed more of the recent rains, field activity across the state has either been limited or brought to a halt due to the wet conditions. With much of the state waiting to get back into the field and get a start on planting, ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomists provide updates on what they are seeing and what’s happening in their respective regions across the state.

A few months ago, we discussed the upcoming 2026 modernization of the U.S. coordinate system and what it could mean for precision agriculture. As the transition date approaches, more details have been released, and it’s time for Iowa growers to start preparing.

In 2026, the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) will officially replace:

Calves are on the ground and various crop fields are turning green with cover crops. As cattle are turned out to these annual forages, it’s good to review some timely reminders.

We are starting to see signs of warmer weather, which means that planting is around the corner, and cover crops are starting to green up and grow. Overwintering cover crops, such as cereal rye, will require termination, and now is the time to make those plans. For beginning cover croppers, it is recommended to terminate cover crops 10 to 14 days before planting. This is especially important before planting corn, while beans will be more forgiving if planted into green cover crops.