Alfalfa Pest Concerns Drive Research

By Scout Nelson

In recent years, alfalfa growers across Minnesota and nearby states have reported increasing challenges with insect pests. Extension educators note that concerns are growing, especially around alfalfa weevil control and the effectiveness of current management practices.

Growers share that insect pressure often continues beyond the first cutting. In some cases, common insecticides no longer provide the same level of control seen in previous seasons. These challenges create uncertainty around how to manage alfalfa weevil alongside other insect pests that may appear during the growing season.

To better understand these issues, the University of Minnesota Extension is hosting a multi-state online survey. The survey focuses on grower experiences, concerns, and needs related to alfalfa insect management. It covers 2021 through 2025 growing seasons and includes 22 short questions https://z.umn.edu/alfalfapestsurvey.

The survey gives growers and agricultural professionals an opportunity to share what they see in their fields. Responses will help Extension specialists identify areas where insect problems are most severe and determine how widespread these challenges are across the region.

Survey results will guide future Extension education programs and research priorities. By understanding grower needs, universities can better design pest management tools, outreach materials, and training programs that support effective alfalfa production.

The survey is open to alfalfa growers and agricultural professionals throughout the Midwest. It is conducted in collaboration with multiple university forage and integrated pest management programs to ensure regional perspectives are represented.

Information collected will also help justify funding for future research and Extension support. Grower feedback plays an important role in shaping practical solutions for pest management challenges facing the alfalfa industry.

Extension encourages eligible participants to complete the survey and contribute to their experiences. Sharing field observations will help strengthen research efforts and improve long-term insect management strategies for alfalfa production. If you have any questions about the survey, contact Dr. Anthony Hanson - Integrated Pest Management Educator at hans4022@umn.edu.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-goodlifestudio