Crop Lookout is a new interactive tool on the Crop Protection Network. This interactive map shows real-time what has been observed in fields this growing season, not only in Iowa but across the U.S. and in Canada. It can help farmers and agronomists see what’s being found in fields to help guide local scouting and management decisions.
With the map, you can zoom in and out. If county is highlighted, you can click it and see what’s been reported. Currently in Iowa (as of June 25, 2026), you’ll see there have been four reports of tar spot (Figure 1).
Another disease that is on the minds of growers after last year is southern rust. The Crop Lookout map can help. Southern rust doesn’t overwinter in Iowa, instead spores need to blow-up from the south. Tracking detections in the southern U.S. with this tool helps guide if we should start scouting for it in Iowa. As of June 25, 2026, no southern rust detections have been reported in the U.S. (Figure 2).
Report a Pest on Crop LookOut
If you observe a pest that isn’t showing up on the map, you can submit a report through the online form (Figure 3). With the form, you’ll select what crop it’s in, pest observed, county observed in, upload a photo, and provide your contact information. After review and if confirmed, it will be added to the map.
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- Field Agronomist in EC/SE Iowa
- Professor of Plant Pathology and Microbiology
- Extension Field Crops Pathologist