Warsaw, IL – The Warsaw FFA Chapter is part of a multi-state monitoring program looking for a corn pest that could cause major crop losses. The western corn rootworm is learning to cope with crop rotation. In eastern Illinois and western indiana, the beetle has learned to lay its eggs in soybean fields. Thus, next year's larvae are ready to attack corn plants. FFA advisor Don Bumphrey says the pests can cost a farmer up to half of his crop. The students planted pheromone traps in 30 fields, but found few rootworm beetles so far. However, since the pest is spreading westward, Bumphrey expects chapter will be asked to help monitor for the beetles next year.
FFA Monitors Fields for New Pest
