Insects
Insect pests may cause direct and or indirect injury to crops. Get more information on key insect pests in Iowa, how to scout for them, and how to implement integrated pest management tactics that utilize economic thresholds to know when action is warranted and minimize the spread of insecticide resistance.
Timely Insights on Insects
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January 29, 2026Authors
2025 was the sixth year of a coordinated effort to monitor corn rootworm adults across Iowa and the fifth year of combining this effort with the Regional Corn Rootworm Monitoring Network. The Hodgson Lab received funding from the Agricultural Stewardship Technical Committee to distribute traps to volunteer cooperators across corn-growing regions in the U.S. and Canada. The 2025 regional report is published, but this article summarizes the Iowa results in greater detail.
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January 29, 2026Content Author
The Iowa State University Pesticide Safety Education Program has revised several applicator manuals and exams to reflect the updated pesticide applicator certification and training rules implemented by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship on Jan. 1.
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January 13, 2026Content Author
Spray drones are increasingly being evaluated by Iowa farmers as an additional tool for crop input application. When used appropriately, these systems can provide flexibility for timely applications, reduce field traffic, and improve access to areas that are difficult to reach with traditional ground equipment.
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December 18, 2025Content Author
To maintain your private pesticide applicator certification, you must either pass an exam every three years or attend an approved Private Continuing Instruction Course (P-CIC) between December 1 and April 15 each year your certification card covers.
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December 15, 2025Authors
AMES, Iowa – The 2026 Crop Advantage Series will take place at 12 locations across the state Jan. 6–29. Each meeting will feature tailored topics selected based on local growing conditions and challenges, presented by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists.
