WESTERN COMMITTEE ON CROP PESTS 49th ANNUAL MEETING

Friday, October 16, 2009 Fort Garry Hotel

Winnipeg, MB Prepared by Ian Wise

1.0 Welcome and Introductions at 0806 hrs Chair: John Gavloski, Manitoba Agriculture, Food, and Rural Initiative, Carman, MB

Secretary: Ian Wise, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Winnipeg, MB - 26 members present at the start of the meeting

2.0 Additions to Agenda - none Motion to accept agenda (Soroka/Clodius) CARRIED 3.0 Review and Approval of Minutes of 2008 WCCP Meeting

Copies of minutes distributed, excluding appendices. Motion to accept minutes (Olfert/Carcamo) CARRIED

4.0 Business Arising from 2008 Meeting – 4.1 Change name of the WCCP Guide to Insect Pests on Plants. 4.2 Jim Bessel commented on the updates to the Website by Kelly Turkington.

5.0 Appointment of WCCP Resolutions Committee Scott Hartley and Jim Bessel agreed to comprise the Resolutions Committee. 6.0 Provincial Insect Pest Summaries for 2009 (Appendix I) 6.1 British Columbia – Markus Clodius, PARC, AAFC (compiled by Susanna Acheampong) 6.2 Alberta – Lloyd Dosdall, University of Alberta (compiled by Scott Meers) 6.3 Saskatchewan – Scott Hartley, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture and Food 6.4 Manitoba – John Gavloski, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives 6.5 Appointment of summarizers for 2010 – All summarizers agreed or were appointed to stand for 2010. Discussion – The Swede midge is now widespread but at very low populations in western Canada.

The midge is now deregulated, allowing anyone to monitor for its presence with pheromone traps. Mike Dolinski raised concerns about cutworms and wireworms. Many cutworm species have been

found in canola fields in Alberta, but most are not usually a concern. Wireworm problems appear to be increasing. Identification of species and use of traps for monitoring currently is lacking.

John Gavloski raised the need for speces identification of cutworms. Dr. Bob Byers, AAFC, is now retired and there is no taxonomist with expertise. Dave Holden proposed the use of the bar code of life system as one possibility. Jim Bessell observed a field of canola that was badly damaged by cutworms. The field was partially tilled in the fall with the untilled areas not being affected. Severasl cutworm species are known to be attracted to tilled soil for oviposition. Scott Meers and Mike Dolinski mentioned the warm conditions late in the growing season is conducive to cause high grasshopper populations in 2010. John Gavloski reported that Tetrastichus julis was released in areas of Manitoba where the cereal leaf beetle were found for the first time, and Chlamydatus associatus (lygus species) was found on sunflowers. Mike Dolinki queried about fertility effects on insect pest management for flea beetle. Jim Bessell mentioned growers are less inclined to fund such projects because it is viewed as a fertilizer company

responsibility. The current problem is that in zero till seedling growth is poor during cool weather because of poor uptake of P and Zn.

7.0 Provincial Entomology Research Summaries for 2008 (Appendix II) 7.1 British Columbia – Bob Vernon, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Agassiz 7.2 Alberta – Hector Cárcamo, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Lethbridge

7.3 Saskatchewan – Owen Olfert, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Saskatoon (compiled by Chrystel Olivier)

7.4 Manitoba – Ian Wise, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Winnipeg 7.5 Appointment of summarizers for 2010 – Markus Clodius (BC) and James Tansey (Alberta)

agreed to be new summarizers for 2010.

8.0 Agency Reports 8.1 CFIA Insect Pest Rep - Dave Holden Insect survey updates 1)Blueberry maggot – not found at 35 sites in BC 2) Apple maggot – not detected from 430 sites in BC Interior 3)Japanese beetle – not found in 600 traps set up in BC 4)Oriental fruit moth – not found in 200 traps in south BC 5)Cereal leaf beetle - deregulated, survey discontinued 6)Swede midge – deregulated, now found in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and eastern Canada Prairie to Forest Survey Shift

Survey to monitor gypsy moth , Asian gypsy moth (2 subspecies) and pink gypsy moth. Next year a risk-based survey plan is needed. Surveys need to be prioritized according to the potential for the insect to be invasive and cause severe damage. 1)Gypsy moth – detected in all western provinces. Spraying programs have been done in Winnipeg and Vancouver. 2)Asian and pink gypsy moth - arrive from ships (females are attracted to lights and lay eggs on ships in port). Pheromone the same as gypsy moth but placed at sites near and along vessel and container pathways. 3) Emerald ash borer – usually not found until after it has established. Traps placed in all provinces. Presently found in southern Ontario. 4)Sirex woodwasp – attacks pine. Widespread in southern Ontario and Quebec but not found in surveys in western Canada. 5)Spotted wing drosophila – found in the Fraser Valley area of BC. Native to east Asia, it attacks nearly major berries, cherries, etc. before and after harvest. Infested fruit liquefies and rots in 2 days. Females oviposit directly into fruit. Fecundity of 300+ eggs per female and there are multiple generations.

8.2 PMRA Insecticide Update –Dean Morewood presented in the Pest Management Regulatory Agency report.

9.0 Special Reports

9.1 Mechanical control of stored grain insects: What works, and how effective is it. Noel White, Cereal Research Centre, Winnipeg The rusty grain (80% under seed coat) and red flour beetle (20% in seed) were the target

insects. A grain vac was used to move grain into storage. The movement of the grain caused nearly complete mortality of free living insects and 35-85% mortality of larvae in the seed. Insect mortality caused by the striking of insect or grain against the inside walls. Most

effective method is to reduce flow of grain so more grain strikes the inside of the vac. Most commercial vacs are not effective because large grain flow prevents most seeds from striking inside of walls. Mortality can be increased by aerating grain as soon as possible. 9.2 Detection of sprout and midge damaged kernels using NIR Noel White, RCR, Winnipeg NIR technology uses a reflectance spectrum to measure the chemical component of the seed

or to identify seed damage. For undamaged seed, the reflectance can be correlated with protein content of the seed. For damaged seed, classification accuracy is highly discriminatory in separating healthy and midge-damaged seed.

9.3 Review of Insect Pests of Sunflowers in North America John Gavloski, MAFRI, Carman The Sunflower Insect Trapping Network traps the sunflower moth (SM) and the banded

sunflower moth (BSM) in 7 states and Manitoba at 40 sites. Winged pheromone traps with rubber septa are used. BSM overwinters in all area survey areas but the SM does not. BSM traps capture more moths in northern areas and SM is trapped mostly in south. BSM counts were >100/week in July versus <10 in 2008.

Host plant resistance is being investigated for control of BSM (North Dakota), seed weevil (South Dakota), and SM (Kansas). At present, some varieties are less susceptible against BSM. The mechanism is not known. Field monitoring relies on ability to detect eggs on bracts. Adults are too hard to detect. Eggs should be counted on a minimum of five flower buds. A recent publication is available on the egg-count technique.

9.4 Overview of the AAFC Working Group on Biological Control Owen Olfert, AAFC, Saskatoon The Group was established in 1991 to prioritize projects and to accelerate development of

networks. Fifty AAFC scientists in 16 stations were involved. The topics include biocontrol, ecology, and biosystematics. CABI Europe, CFIAZ and the Pest Management Centre are partners. Updates are provided from a number of societies (CPS, CFB, IOBC, SIP). The Working Group initiatives include the Guide for Registration of Biopesticides, national quarantine facility, convention on biodiversity, and the Invasive Alien Species Initiative. The main concerns of the Group is under funding and the difficulty of co-ordinating biocontrol research in commodity-segregated research environments.

9.5. IPM adoption questionnaire Owen Olfert, AAFC, Saskatoon The PMC requested the questionnaire. Owen requested assistance on implementing the

survey. His concern is over the number of surveys being done, and whether it might be more effective to have this survey piggyback with another. A copy of the survey was distributed.

10.0 WCCP Guide 10.1 Review of Chapter Editors Special Crops - Brent Elliott replaced by John Gavloski on an interim basis. Commercial Vegetables – Brent Elliott and Rob Spencer Home Vegetable Crops – Motion to eliminate this chapter (Elliott/Dosdall) CARRIED

Greenhouse Crops – list of suitable candidates to be drafted. Interior Plantscapes and House Plants – Motion to replace this chapter with a website link to

a suitable site as determined by Julie Soroka and Scott Hartley (Elliott/Olfert). CARRIED Tree Fruits – Susanna Acheampong, Brent Elliott Shelterbelt, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs – Scott Hartley to check at PFRA Indian Head Seasoned Wood and Timber Structures – Hugh Philip to be contacted for a suitable web link Turf, Warehouse and Stored Grain, Hazard to Pollinators – no action Mushrooms – has been deleted Berry Crops – Mark Sweeney Bob Vernon to contact the PMC on whether they would be interested in develoiping a pest

management guide for crops grown on a national scale (berries, mushrooms, tree fruits, greenhouse crops, etc. that are not currently or can not be addressed sufficiently by the WCCP. Bob to report back at the next meeting.

11.0 New Business – Western Forum Chair The WCCP is responsible to fill this position as per rotation with WCPDC. Candidate to be

approached before the meeting. 12.0 2010 WCCP Executive and Meeting Location Next meeting is to be held in Alberta. Hector Caracamo to meet with Lloyd Dosdall to decide location. 13.0 Resolutions : 13.1 Two resolutions were forwarded by the Committee 1)A request for an increase in funding for biocontrol research. Motion: Hartley/Olfert CARRIED 2)Increase research on cutworms of field crops (Appendix III). Motion: Hartley/Bessell CARRIED 14.0 Adjournment - Motion to adjourn.

Appendix I – Provincial Insect Pest Reports Summary Grasshoppers continue to be an issue in dry and hot interior regions. There were several reports from both producers and homeowners this year. Lygus bugs were a problem in canola in the Peace River region. An unidentified caterpillar was found attacking alfalfa in the Fraser River (north of Williams Lake) and Kersley area (Quesnel). Apple clearwing moths continue to be an issue in the Similkameen valley, Oliver and Kelowna. Two secondary pests of concern are woolly apple aphids and apple leaf curling midge. In the coastal region, new pests includes flower thrips in strawberry, European blackberry leaf midge in Rubus, Yellow spider mite in raspberry, and Spotted-wing Drosophila in berries and soft fruit. Surveillance for Swede midge continues in BC cole crops. Eradication for North American gypsy moth in a Harrison hazelnut orchard is underway. Furadan is no longer available via emergency registration to rutabaga growers for control of Cabbage root maggot. Rhododendron leafhopper was identified. Apple maggot is still limited to the Coastal areas of B.C.

FORAGE CROPS

Grasshoppers continue to plague the Southern Interior of B.C. Grasshoppers impacted forage crops along the South Thompson River (between Salmon Arm and Kamloops) with most going untreated. About 100 acres were treated with insecticides. In the Kootenays grasshoppers were not widespread, but more in the Southern Trench where the rain was less frequent. There was an isolated grasshopper outbreak in the Oliver area.

FIELD CROPS

Alfalfa weevils (Hypera postica) seemed to be a bigger problem in the Creston Valley. In the East Kootenays, weevils seemed to be more abundant in younger fields (<3 yrs old) with inadequate irrigation. From the North Okanagan towards Kamloops, alfalfa weevil populations and impact were lower this year than in previous years, with most fields not being treated. Cereal leaf beetles (Oumela melanoplus) impacted about 300 acres of cereals in the North Okanagan which were treated with insecticides.

BRITISH COLUMBIA MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND LANDS

2009 INSECT PEST REPORT

presented to the WESTERN COMMITTEE ON CROP PESTS

October 15-17 2009

Pea leaf weevil (Sitona lineatus) in field peas caused significant damage in the North Okanagan with about 200 acres being treated. In the BC Peace River region, insect monitoring programs for flea beetle, diamondback moth, Bertha armyworm and lygus bugs on crops were not undertaken in 2009, owing to restrictions on staff and travel. Significant areas (more than in any of the past 5 years) of canola were treated with insecticide for lygus bugs (Lygus spp.). An unknown species of caterpillar was collected from alfalfa in the Fraser River (North of Williams Lake) and Kersley area (Quesnel). There were signs of feeding damage on leaves. Specimens were sent to Ottawa for identification.

HORTICULTURAL CROPS

Apple clearwing moth, (Synanthedon myopaeformis) continues to be an issue in the Similkameen and South Okanagan Valleys and the Ellison area of Kelowna. Surveillance of apple clearwing moth in the Kelowna area was undertaken by staff of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canda (AAFC), BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands (BCMAL) and Okanagan Tree Fruit Company (OKTFC). Apple clearwing moths are widely distributed in the Ellison area east of Kelowna. Their population levels are however lower than in the Similkameen valley. An emergency registration of Entrust (spinosad) was obtained for the control of apple clearwing moth in both organic and conventional orchards for the 2009 season. There is ongoing research on mass trapping, chemical and biological control of apple clearwing moth by AAFC - Summerland and grower organizations. This pest is present in Coastal BC. Woolly apple aphids (Eriosoma lanigerum): there is an increase in the incidence of woolly apple aphids in apple orchards with some orchards showing a second peak population in the fall. Bayer CropScience provided some Movento (spirotetramat) for demonstration trials in the Kelowna area. Surveys were carried out in the Kelowna area by BCMAL and OKTFC to determine the natural enemies of woolly apple aphids in apple orchards. Natural enemies present were Aphelinus parasitoids, syrphids, lacewings, lady beetles, and earwigs. Apple leaf curling midge (Dasineura mali): seems to be spreading in the Okanagan Valley. It has been reported in Naramata and Vernon. There are no registered products for this pest in BC. This pest is present in Coastal BC. Western grape rootworm (Bromius obscurus): a new pest found attacking roses and grapes in 2008 was found attacking raspberries this year. As part of the shift in direction towards a long term sustainable area-wide pest management program, the codling moth (Cydia pomonella) Sterile Insect Release Program ran pilot projects in the Similkameen valley, Fairview, Oliver and North Okanagan (Kelowna, Oyama, Vernon) to assess the impact of targeted releases of sterile codling moths. On Vancouver Island, wireworms and crane fly larvae caused slightly higher problems than other years in the Duncan region. In the Courtenay region, flea beetles were a significant problem earlier in the year for vegetable growers, wasps were an issue for some pick-your-own berry growers, but wireworms were not as bad, possibly because most of the corn growers are now planting insecticide-treated seed.

Apple Maggot (Rhagoletes pomonella) continues to be limited to coastal regions of BC, where it is managed in commercial orchards. Unfortunately, there are many wild hosts and unmanaged trees present, making it difficult to limit the pest. Outreach activities to help make the public aware of the risks of moving fruit or plants into the Interior fruit growing regions of BC continue. Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and European Flower Thrips (F. intonsa) were found to be causing fruit damage to ever-bearing strawberries in mid-late summer 2008 and 2009. Though thrips are known to cause bronzing, russetting, and ‘seediness’ in other strawberry growing regions (i.e. California, Australia), this is the first time flower thrips have been recorded damaging coastal BC strawberries. Delegate (spinatoram) was sprayed and controlled the problem. Yellow Spider Mite (Eotetranychus borealis carpini) was initially confirmed in BC raspberries in 2009. Yellow spider mite is an early feeding mite species which damages plant leaves significantly in April and May, which is earlier than the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae), a common mid-summer mite pest. Yellow spider mite was first identified in Washington State raspberries in 1992. Fields with Yellow Mite need to be treated early to prevent mite build up and leaf damage as the season progresses. European Blackberry Leaf (or Gall) Midge (Dasineura plicatrix) was confirmed in BC blackberries and raspberries in 2008. This is the first record in North America of this European pest. Populations have been observed by crop consultants since 2004, and the range appears to be expanding. Growing tips appear puckered and deformed from midge larvae feeding within. Blackberry tips can be infested from May-September, and raspberry tips appear infested in August. Spotted-Wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) has been confirmed in coastal BC berry growing regions in September 2009. Spotted Wing Drosophila females lay eggs in sound fruit before it is ready for harvest, which contaminates fruit with larvae, and causes it to become soft and unmarketable. This temperate fruit fly is native to Southeast Asia. It infests thin-skinned fruit including blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, cherries, and grapes. This pest has not been identified in BC’s Interior fruit growing areas. A coastal BC working group is forming to discuss a surveillance and management strategy for 2010, and there will likely be coordination between the USA, as the pest is present in coastal regions there as well. Cabbage Root Maggot (Delia radicum) continues to plague BC rutabaga growers, particularly now that Furadan (carbofuran) will no longer be available for emergency registration. Growers have only Lorsban (chlorpyrifos) available for use and there is documented resistance in BC flies. Research in BC is underway for screening insecticides, row covers, and exclusion fencing. Swede Midge (Contarinia nasturtii) is now an un-regulated pest in Canada. BC does not have any record of this pest, however, it does exist and must be managed in eastern cole crop-growing areas of North America, including Ontario and Quebec. Surveillance in BC cole crops in 2009 indicates that we are still free of this pest. We intend to continue with annual surveillance. Rhododendron Leafhopper (Graphocephala fennahi) was identified in BC in 2009. This eastern North American pest was first recorded in BC in 1941, and not again until 1968. Now it occurs in western areas wherever rhododendrons are grown, but appears localized. It one of the largest leafhoppers in North America, measuring up to 12 mm long. It has a striking pattern of red

longitudinal stripes on green. Nymphs and adults feed on plant sap. Impact on rhododendrons is unthriftiness, particularly in drought-stressed plants. North American Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar) 2009 eradication program was initiated south of Harrison Hotsprings, BC. A hazelnut orchard appeared to be the center of the infestation. Aerial spray of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki was done 3 times in May-June. Treatment of a smaller area is planned for 2010. This is the most easterly treatment zone in BC, and the first time a commercial hazelnut orchard has harboured gypsy moth.

EXTENSION PROGRAMS The Ministry of Agriculture and Land’s new, expanded and updated edition of the Home and Garden Pest Management Guide was published in July 2009. Check the following link for more information: http://www.al.gov.bc.ca/cropprot/hg_guide.htm. 

Compiled by Susanna Acheampong, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, 200 - 1690 Powick Road, BC, V1X 7G5, Phone: (250) 861-7230, Susanna.Acheampong@gov.bc.ca and Tracy Hueppelsheuser, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford, BC, V3G 2M3, Phone: (604) 556-3031, Tracy.Hueppelsheuser@gov.bc.ca, with contributions from Kerry Clark, Wayne Haddow, Jill Hatfield, Kevin Murphy, Darrell Smith and Mike Witt.

Alberta Crop Insect Update 2009

Scott Meers

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development Crop Diversification Centre South

301 Horticultural Station Road East Brooks, AB T1R 1E6 scott.meers@gov.ab.ca

Presented by Lloyd Dosdall

Summary

Cabbage seedpod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus) was the dominant pest species responsible for the greatest economic damage to Alberta cropland in 2009. Extensive areas of commercial canola fields south of the TransCanada Highway were once again treated with insecticide to reduce infestations of cabbage seedpod weevil. In central Alberta, the insects of most concern were grasshoppers, principally the clear-winged grasshopper (Camnula pellucida) and the two-striped grasshopper (Melanoplus bivittatus). These species were the targets of some insecticidal spraying to control their numbers in localized areas throughout the province. Pest species of grasshoppers have evidently increased substantially over those observed in 2008, and the situation is a serious concern for the 2010 cropping season. Most other insects were either low in numbers or were of less impact than expected. High populations of flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.) in the fall of 2009 may indicate a threat to canola crops in the spring of 2010. Wireworms continued to cause crop damage in 2009. Cereal leaf beetle (Oulema melanopus) continued to expand its range, but to date it has not caused economic damage to crops. Lygus bug infestations were damaging to crops in parts of southern Alberta.

OILSEED INSECTS The cabbage seedpod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus) has firmly established itself as a perennial insect concern in southern Alberta. Spraying is now routine for many canola producers south of the TransCanada Highway, and economic threshold densities occurred in many fields and near-threshold densities in most others. Spraying was widespread in the Lethbridge region, although weevil populations in most fields in this region were comparatively lower than in 2008. As has been the pattern for many years, the earliest seeded and therefore the first canola fields in bloom attract weevil adults into the fields. Environmental conditions for weevil larval development were favorable in 2009, so this insect is expected to be a potentially severe problem in 2010. The 2009 survey showed that the cabbage seedpod weevil has not increased its range in Alberta. Bertha armyworm (Mamestra configurata) numbers were very low throughout most of the province. A total of 89 monitoring sites were set up through excellent cooperation within the agricultural industry. Only two monitoring sites showed an elevated risk, and in the end no spraying occurred. Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) was monitored in Alberta at 22 sites across the province.

No insecticidal applications were needed to control infestations of this pest in 2009. The highest diamondback moth populations were found in canola fields near Lethbridge, but populations further north in Edmonton, Vegreville, Morinville, and Lacombe were practically zero. Striped (Phyllotreta striolata) and crucifer flea beetle (P. cruciferae) caused little concern in 2009. Populations in fall in southern Alberta were high, however, and may indicate an increased threat for the spring of 2010. Lygus bugs were found in canola in moderate to high densities in the early flowering stage throughout much of southern Alberta. Fields that were sprayed for cabbage seedpod weevil most often did not require additional insecticidal treatments for lygus after flowering. Many fields, however, were sprayed after flowering to control lygus. This strongly suggests that it may be possible to forecast lygus numbers based on an early flowering count. It also puts an interesting spin on the spraying decision for cabbage seedpod weevil at early flower. A dry spring favored the buildup of lygus. Root maggot (Delia spp.) populations in Alberta were decimated by the droughts in 2002 and 2003, and by 2008 their populations has once again increased to quite damaging levels in eastcentral Alberta. In spite of drought conditions again 2009, root maggot populations were high in some locations, including Fort Saskatchewan and Lacombe. It is likely, however, that overall populations of root maggots will be low in 2010 in central Alberta. Swede midge (Contarinia nasturtii) has been confirmed in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, but to date, the species has not been confirmed in Alberta. However, photographs of crop damage circulated by Canola Council of Canada agronomists are strongly suggestive of a swede midge infestation in central Alberta in 2009 near Vegreville. Plans are underway to monitor this site in 2010 with pheromone traps. Thrips (mainly Thrips tabaci) were damaging in drought-stricken canola fields near Morinville, Onoway, and Fort Saskatchewan. Large numbers of adults and immatures were found feeding on canola racemes causing plant stress and wilting.

CEREAL INSECTS

Wireworm (Elateridae) were once again a concern in 2009. Severity of wheat stem sawfly (Cephus cinctus) damage was low in much of southern Alberta. There still remain several areas with sawfly concerns in the Special Areas, County of Forty Mile, M.D. of Taber, and Willow Creek. Populations are generally reduced from previous years, but these pockets remain and a population rebound is possible with favorable weather conditions. An unconfirmed report of wheat stem sawfly damage originated in the Camrose area. Orange wheat blossom midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana) occurred in very low numbers this year with very little spraying taking place. Spray decisions were confounded by the extremely dry conditions throughout much of the production area where midge infestations are a concern. The wheat midge survey samples have been collected and remain to be processed. We continue to take samples in irrigated areas of southern Alberta due to our experience of midge issues in irrigated wheat in Newell County.

Cereal leaf beetle (Oulema melanopus) is established in southern Alberta. Beetle numbers increased in our surveys in 2009 over those recorded in 2006 to 2008 inclusive. Population levels remain low, but surveys to date have found the beetle continues to disperse over an increasingly large area. The most severe infestation was observed in a barley field near Taber; this field was very early in its development and highly fertilized. Several Alberta populations of cereal leaf beetle are parasitized. In 2008, parasitism of larvae by the eulophid hymenopteran, Tetrastichus julis, was observed in winter wheat fields near Pincher Creek to Lethbridge and Taber, but in 2009 parasitized populations expanded further eastward to Bow Island and Burdette. Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor) was common in low numbers throughout much of southern Alberta, often in areas where wheat stem sawfly has previously caused crop damage. In some fields, infestations of both Hessian fly and wheat stem sawfly occurred simultaneously. In the Edmonton area, severe Hessian fly damage was observed in fields of CPS wheat. Puparia were found in large numbers and the wheat was severely drought-stressed. This infestation evidently began in 2008, and there were unexplained reports of lodging in wheat fields in the same area and recorded by crop consultants. Mealy bugs were present in the same field. Mealy bug (Trionymus spp.) was reported to infest cereal crops in Alberta (principally barley), but unlike earlier reports when such infestations were found in more southern regions of the province, in 2009 the reports were from central Alberta. Many reports suggested this was Haanchen mealy bug, Trionymus haancheni, but it could also be T. americanus, the American grass mealy bug which actually fits the damage symptoms better. This is a case where we, as professionals, should be taking samples and having them identified in Ottawa! On a side note, control is relatively easy, a year or two of rotation away from cereals should break the cycle as the problem is almost exclusive to continuous cropping of a cereal (usually barley for silage). Cutworms (Noctuidae) were a common complaint in several areas of the province in 2009. Some interesting problems are being presented by current cutworm infestations. First, cutworms seem to be more scattered in the fields, not in distinct areas of infestation. Secondly, the seasonality of the attack appears to have changed with earlier cutworms in some fields and cutworms that remain later than usual in other fields. Thirdly, these differences may (or very well may not) be the result of new species. Certainly dingy cutworm (Feltia spp.) is more common in southern Alberta and there are suggestions that another “new” species may be causing the later season damage. It may be time to reexamine the species complex that we are generically referring to as cutworms across the prairie provinces. In central Alberta near Morinville, Onoway, Fort Saskatchewan, Lamont, Vegreville, Lacombe, and Wetaskiwin, severe infestations of redbacked cutworm (Euxoa ochrogaster) were reported in May and June. Some farmers did spray crops, but in general, foliar insecticidal applications were not widespread. Patchy plant stands remained in several of these fields throughout the growing season. Barley thrips (Limothrips denticornis Haliday) were a problem in several fields but this was not a widespread concern.

PULSE CROP INSECTS In 2009, pea leaf weevil (Sitona lineatus) damage was found in the same general area as in 2007 and 2008 and was generally less severe than in previous years. Spring flights were much later than in previous years and weevil populations were generally much lower early in the season. Warmer temperatures later in the spring resulted in late infestations of pea leaf weevil.

GRASS CROPS, PASTURES AND GENERAL INSECTS

Grasshopper (various species) numbers and concerns relating to damage increased this year in central Alberta and in the Peace River region. The main area of the province affected by grasshoppers was the Peace River area. Several producers in this region reported high populations, and in some cases producers sprayed crops with insecticide repeatedly. While this situation had not been forecast, it is not unexpected due to the long open fall of 2008, heavy snow cover in 2008-2009, and the drier conditions that dominated Alberta in the early part of the growing season.

Dan Johnson has provided detailed information on Alberta grasshopper diversity and abundance, and noted, “This is an odd year for localized population increase.” The red-legged grasshopper species, Melanoplus femurrubrum and M. dawsoni (which generally prefers moister sites), were common at a site near Medicine Hat. Melanoplus femurrubrum also made up the majority of specimens from a site near Lamont and was found in many collections in northeastern and central Alberta.

Dan sent the following notes after a collecting trip in central Alberta. The notes are interesting because many of the species mentioned are not the common pest species of grasshoppers:

▪ Melanoplus bruneri: Bruner's spur-throated grasshopper, occurs in sites of grass with plenty of forbs present, or mixed pasture and roadsides, and comprises ca. 50% or more of the population.

▪ Melanoplus bivittatus: Two-striped grasshopper, usually comprises 10% of grasshopper populations this year, and this represents a decline because other species have increased.

▪ Melanoplus packardii: Packard’s grasshopper, usually comprises 5-10% of the current grasshopper population, with numbers somewhat low this year.

▪ Melanoplus sanguinipes: Lesser migratory grasshopper, also usually comprises 5-10% of the current grasshopper population, but their numbers may increase in subsequent years.

▪ Melanoplus borealis: Northern grasshopper, occurred in isolated pockets, with their populations usually less than 5% of overall grasshopper numbers.

▪ Chorthippus curtipennis: Marsh meadow grasshopper, was common, usually comprising 10-60% of the grasshopper complex.

▪ Camnula pellucida: Clear-winged grasshopper, was becoming more common and its numbers may increase in 2010 and 2011.

▪ Pseudopomala brachyptera: Bunch-grass grasshopper, was rare but noticed because it looks like long toothpick.

▪ Melanoplus confusus: Pasture grasshopper; occurred in isolated pockets, usually at less than 1% of overall grasshopper numbers.

▪ Melanoplus dawsoni: Dawson's grasshopper, usually comprised 5% of the grasshopper complex.

▪ Melanoplus fasciatus: Huckleberry grasshopper, was rare this year except in woodland, and it was usually even rare there.

▪ Melanoplus femurrubrum: Red-legged grasshopper, occurred in isolated pockets but was usually less than 1% of the population

▪ Melanoplus kennicottii: Kennicott's grasshopper, was rare but comparatively abundant along the bank of the North Saskatchewan River.

▪ Melanoplus gladstoni, Gladston's grasshopper, and Phoetaliotes nebrascensis: Large-headed grasshopper, were rare in central Alberta, but in southern Alberta comprised about 5% of the grasshopper popualation.

▪ On drier rangeland, the following species were found: Melanoplus infantilis: Little spur-throated grasshopper, typically 40%;

▪ Aeropedellus clavatus: Club-horned grasshopper

▪ Ageneotettix deorum: White whiskers grasshopper, a small species with black 'knees', usually 2 to 5% of the population;

▪ Arphia pseudonietana: Red-winged grasshopper, out now flying (red wing)

▪ Spharagemon equale: Barren ground grasshopper, and a fair number of other rangeland spp. (this one has yellow wings)

Dan Johnson's collections from Viking to Hanna included many more rangeland species but none were high in density.

For the past five years, red clover casebearer larvae (Coleophora deauratella) has been causing economically damaging infestations in red clover seed fields. This insect is now prevalent throughout the Peace River region. Second-year clover production is no longer worth even attempting and sometimes significant damage is found in first-year stands. Acreage of red clover for seed have dropped to almost non-existent as a result of this insect problem. Insecticide control trials and pheromone trials are ongoing.

OTHER INSECT REPORTS

▪ Populations of the leafy spurge hawkmoth, Hyles euphorbiae, a species released in Alberta for biological control of leafy spurge, appear to be increasing in central and eastcentral Alberta. A number of reports and specimens submissions on the species occurred in 2009.

▪ Several stored product insect samples were received. Hairy fungus beetles, Typhaea stercorea

(L.), were identified, and were indicative of poor grain storage conditions because they do not damage stored grain, but rather feed on mold.

▪ Long-horned beetles (Cerambycidae) and carpenter ants (Camponotus sp.) were common

submissions from home owners, and their increase in incidence may be indicative of the drought in Alberta.

▪ Several horntail (Sirex sp.) reports were received, and a number of concerns of high aphid

populations were reported late in fall. ▪ A number of specimens of whitemarked tussock moth, Orgyia leucostigma, were submitted,

which are not usual for central Alberta. ▪ Casebearing moths, called the "pup-tent casebearer” were reported climbing on the exterior of

houses. Populations are associated with lichens. Thank you to the following people for their contributions to this report: Jim Broatch, Mark Cutts (and Ag-Info Centre staff), Héctor Cárcamo, Lloyd Dosdall, Dan Johnson

2009 Saskatchewan Insect Report presented to the

Western Committee on Crop Pests October 16, 2009

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Summary Climatic conditions in 2009 were generally not favourable for insect pests resulting in low pest pressure for most crops. There were nine consecutive months of below normal temperatures leading into September when the situation was reversed with the second hottest September on record. Seeding progress in the spring was variable from region to region, depending on precipitation including a late snowfall event in May on the west side of the Province along the Alberta border. For most of the Province seeding was estimated to be a week to two weeks behind normal. Cool conditions resulted in slow crop germination and development particularly in May and June. Similarly the cool temperatures affected hatching emergence and development of insect pests. As the growing season progressed the West Central region experienced very dry conditions. Some of the heaviest rainfall events occurred later in July and August. Because crops were so far behind, some of the later seeded commodities were still filling and benefited from the moisture, resulting in better than expected yields. The main insect pests exceeding economic levels in 2009 were cutworms, pea leaf weevil (SW), cabbage seedpod weevil (SW), wheat midge and grasshoppers. Survey and forecast maps are posted on the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture website. Richardson’s ground squirrels continue to be a serious crop and pasture pest, particularly with respect to crop establishment in the spring. Although the SW has been most affected in recent years, populations have increased in the West Central region due to dry conditions favouring the ground squirrels. Cereal Insects: Orthoptera: grasshoppers – The annual grasshopper forecast / risk map was released in early January 2009. The 2009 risk map for grasshoppers indicated low risk for most areas of Saskatchewan but with increasing populations in the Central part of the Province, and higher risk areas extending into the Southwest. Climatic conditions were not conducive to good grasshopper development early in the season. However, when temperatures warmed in July, there were a number of reports of late season infestations in cereals, primarily durum. Nolo Bait (Nosema locustae) received full registration in Canada just prior to the growing season. Data from a fall 2009 survey of adult grasshopper populations (Saskatchewan Crop Insurance field personnel) is being compiled. Over 1200 sites were observed and will be used to generate a 2010 Grasshopper Risk Map. Diptera: Cecidomyiidae - Sitodiplosis mosellana (Gehin) - wheat midge - The 2009 Wheat Midge Forecast indicated a reduced risk compared to the previous year, but with hot spots in a few locations. With the slow accumulation of heat units in 2009, wheat midge emergence was delayed. The effect of dry conditions in some areas also delayed development and emergence of the adult midge. AAFC, Saskatoon has identified that midge development in the spring requires a minimum of 20 mm of precipitation prior to the end of May. If this does not occur midge emergence tends to be later and over a more prolonged period. The various factors (lack of precipitation, variable staging of wheat crops, due to various seeding dates and slow development) resulted in considerable variation in wheat midge infestations. The necessity for spraying varied dramatically around the Province. In most areas the start of wheat midge emergence was noted during the second week in July, at least a week to 10 days later than most years. The fall soil survey to estimate the number of midge cocoons and parasites is underway. Data will be compiled and a risk map produced for Saskatchewan in 2010.

Oilseed Insects: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae – Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze) – crucifer flea beetle – Flea beetle populations have been gradually increasing over the past few years. In 2009 there were some situations where foliar sprays were required. In most cases, the seed treatments used with the seed were sufficient for controlling the beetles, but due to the slow growth of canola and extended period of insect feeding, there were situations where the insecticide was no longer effective. In addition, there were reports of late infestations as the new adult generation emerged and affected podded canola. This pest may be a greater problem in 2010 where fall populations were high and if spring conditions are warm and dry. The Ministry of Agriculture cooperated with Dr. Julie Soroka for a second year to collect flea beetles using sticky cards in a study to investigate species shift (crucifer and two-striped flea beetles) to determine changes in population composition.

Curculionidae – Ceutorhynchinae – Ceutorhyncus obstrictus – cabbage seedpod weevil – The cabbage seedpod weevil has continued to expand east and north, out of the Southwest. Although the main economic infestations are still reported in southwest Saskatchewan, surveys have found weevils near Regina, and in 2008, within 70 km of Saskatoon. Samples from the 2009 late June survey are currently being processed and data will be mapped by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) this fall. Diptera: Anthomyiidae: Delia radicum (L.) - Cabbage root maggot – There were fewer reports of root maggots as compared to 2008. However it was noted that for dry conditions root maggot populations were higher than expected in fields in the North West (N. Battleford) and North Central (Prince Albert) Regions. Lepidoptera: Noctuidae – cutworms various species (most common species – Euxoa ochrogaster (Guenee) - redbacked cutworm in eastern regions, Agrotis orthogonia Morrison / pale western cutworm in western regions, Feltia jaculifera (Gn.) dingy cutworm and Euxoa auxiliaris (Grt.) army cutworm, Nephelodes minians bronzed cutworm, Lacinipolia renigera bristly cutworm – The latter two species were found in northeast Saskatchewan. - Cutworms were the most common insect pest reported in June for many areas of the Province. There were a number of different cutworms noted, including both below ground and foliar feeding species. Due to the cool temperatures in 2009, feeding extended longer than most years, with some reports of damage continuing into early July. There are no reliable methods for forecasting cutworm populations, but similar to the past few years, cutworms will likely be a problem in 2010. Foliar applied insecticides (chlorpyrifos and synthetic pyrethroids depending on crop and registrations) were used for control.

Plutellidae – Diamondback moth – Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) – Diamondback moths were not a serious issue for producers in 2009 although the Canola Council reported isolated areas of spraying for the pest. Wind trajectories were reviewed by AAFC in Saskatoon. A number of pheromone traps were distributed around the Province. The highest number of diamondback moths was found in the Indian Head area. Noctuidae – Hadeninae – Mamestra configurata Walker - Bertha armyworm – The Bertha Armyworm Monitoring Program, utilizing traps with pheromone lures, were set up in about 200 locations in Saskatchewan in 2009. As with the other insects, emergence of the moths was later than most years, with no occurrences reported until late June. No high risk areas were identified this year. There were reports (Canola Council) of foliar application of insecticides to control bertha armyworm in some fields. Orthoptera: grasshoppers - Similar to 2008, there were late infestations of grasshoppers also some concerns of higher populations of grasshoppers feeding on canola pods. The damage was evident but actual yield losses have not been quantified. There were also reports of late infestations of grasshoppers in flax, consuming the green bolls. Other Crops:

Dry Pea – Coleoptera: Curculionidae -Sitona lineatus (L.) – pea leaf weevil - First found in Saskatchewan in 2007, the 2009 survey (June) noted continued expansion of the affected area, particularly to the east. The range of this weevil in Saskatchewan now extends from the Alberta border to east of Highway #4 (running north-south through Swift Current). The northern boundary of the distribution appears to be the South Saskatchewan River. Control can be achieved through seed treatment or foliar treatment. Due to the recent introduction of this pest, seed treatments may not be a cost-effective measure unless damage was noted in the previous year. Damage has been variable from field to field, with some serious infestations requiring foliar insecticide application. - Hompoptera: Aphids – Aphids were a problem in pea crops later in the season (July and August). Many situations did not require control due to the later infestations. However there was wide variation in crop maturity across the Province. Lentil and Chickpea - Orthoptera: grasshoppers – As noted in other crops grasshoppers were more prevalent later in the season in chickpea but primarily feeding on lentil pods. Alfalfa - Coleoptera: Curculionidae – Hyperinae – Hypera postica (Gyllenhal) -alfalfa weevil – The alfalfa weevil was a major problem for alfalfa producers in 2009. Although the main problem areas are in the Southeast and East Central Regions, this pest continues to extend its Saskatchewan distribution northward. As in the previous two years high populations remained after a first cut in hay and required foliar insecticides for control. Other Insect Issues: 2009 West Nile Virus and Mosquito information - (submitted by Phil Curry – Provincial West Nile Virus Coordinator) The highest temperatures on the Prairies were in Alberta and B.C. and resulted in most activity for WNv in Canada. 8 human cases in Canada – 37 positive mosquito pools (10 in B.C., 11 in Sask., 2 in Manitoba and 14 in Ontario); 6 positive birds in Ontario; 1 in Sask. This was the lowest year ever in Saskatchewan and across Canada, except for British Columbia with the first locally induced infections. Vertebrate Issues: Richardson’s ground squirrel (RGS) - The multi-year research projects related to rodenticide efficacy, predator / prey relationships and other aspects related to RGS management continued in 2009 with completion in 2010. An Emergency Use Registration request for 2% liquid strychnine concentrate was granted to Saskatchewan ending July 31, 2009. Another request was submitted to PMRA for 2009-10. Considerations and Concerns:

• The Agriculture Knowledge Centre in Moose Jaw (1 - 866 – 457 – 2377) is the main contact for agricultural inquiries in Saskatchewan.

• Changes in the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture: In April 2009 created a Regional Services Branch to augment extension services in the Province. The Regional Services Teams, located in 10 offices around the province, are available to provide farmers and ranchers, producer groups and industry with access to production and business information and services. Regional Specialists offer advice and support to all types of livestock, crops, forage and value-added processing businesses. They will help you access the programs and services you need.

Compiled by: Scott Hartley Provincial Specialist – Insect and Vertebrate Pests Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture 125 – 3085 Albert Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4S 0B1 Telephone: 306 – 787 – 4669 Email address: scott.hartley@gov.sk.ca

Compiled by: Field Crops Horticultural and Forage Crops John Gavloski; Entomologist; Brent Elliott; Entomologist Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Box 1149, Carman, MB, ROG OJO Box 1149, Carman, MB, ROG OJO Phone: (204) 745-5668 Fax: (204) 745-5690 Phone: (204) 745-5669 Fax: (204) 745-5690 John.Gavloski@gov.mb.ca Brent.Elliott@gov.mb.ca Abbreviations used: The following abbreviations will be used in this document to indicate the following agricultural regions in Manitoba; NW=Northwest, SW=Southwest, C=Central, E=Eastern, I=Interlake. Estimated acres: Estimated acres grown in Manitoba in 2009 (shown in brackets under each commodity title) are from the Manitoba Crop Insurance Corporations 2009 Variety Market Share Report. The symbol ↑ indicates an increase in acres from 2008, whereas ↓ indicates a decrease in acres from 2008.

Summary: Aphids and thrips were the main insect problems in cereal crops. Cereal leaf beetle was found in Manitoba for the first time.

In canola, flea beetles and cutworms were the biggest concerns. A few canola fields had to be reseeded because of cutworm feeding. Cutworms were at damaging levels in many sunflower fields, particularly in the Central and Southwest regions.

Peas aphids were controlled in several fields of field peas in the Southwest and Central regions. Alfalfa weevil was a concern in many alfalfa fields.

SMALL GRAIN CEREALS (Wheat (spring)-2,616,602 acres↑; Wheat (Winter)-462,090↓; Barley-583,141 acres↓; Oats-468,232 acres↓; Rye-87,389 acres↑; Triticale-1,022 acres↓) Wireworms: Wireworm damage was noted in wheat fields in the Teulon (I) and Dauphin (NW) areas. Aphids: High populations of aphids were noted on wheat, barley and oats, with some fields being sprayed with insecticides. High populations began to be noticed in late-July and aphid populations continued to be a problem in some areas into the third week of August. Cereal crop development was delayed because of cool weather, so crops took longer than normal to reach the less susceptible stages of soft dough and beyond. Thrips: Thrips were a problem on barley in many fields in the southwest part of Manitoba. Reports of high populations extended as far east in Manitoba as Somerset. Most of the concern was during mid-July, with insecticides being applied to some fields. Dimethoate was the main insecticide used, although some beer company contractors and agronomists were recommending the use of Matador, which does not include thrips in cereals on the label.

Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives 2009 Insect Pest Report

to the Western Committee on Crop Pests

October 16, 2009 Winnipeg, Manitoba

Wheat midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana): Emergence of wheat midge appeared to start in the second week of July. There were few reports of high levels of wheat midge, although it was reported that wheat midge was present in a few fields in the Northwest at levels which will likely affect grade more than yield. Grasshoppers: Localized hotspots resulted in some grasshopper control in small grain cereals. There were some concerns over grasshoppers feeding on fall seeded cereals. Cereal Leaf Beetle: Cereal leaf beetle was found in some cereal fields in the northwest. This is the first year that cereal leaf beetle has been found in Manitoba.

CORN (167,524 acres grain corn↓; 54,070 acres silage corn↓; 751 acres open pollinated↑)

Wireworms: Some wireworm damage was noted on corn in the Dauphin area. European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis): In 2009, 56.3 % of grain corn was seeded to Bt varieties, and 17.6% of silage corn was seeded to Bt varieties. There were no reports of economical levels of European corn borer in grain corn in 2009.

CANOLA and MUSTARD (Argentine canola-3,092,323 acres↑; Polish canola-1,642 acres↑; Mustard-10,412 acres↑)

Flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.): Use of seed treatments containing neonicotinoid insecticides to manage early-season flea beetle populations continues to be common. However, development of canola was slow in some areas of Manitoba early in the season due to cool weather and frost. This extended the period where flea beetles could be of concern. Some fields which had insecticide treated seed were additionally treated with foliar insecticides to control flea beetles. Cutworms: Cutworms populations were high and at times economical in canola fields in the central and southwest regions of Manitoba. Insecticides were applied to control cutworms in some canola field. Some reseeding of canola because of cutworm feeding was done in fields near Austin (C), Mariapolis (C), Bruxelles (C), Clearwater (C), and Baldur (C). Grasshoppers: There were some reports of grasshoppers feeding on pods and needing to be controlled in canola fields. Root Maggots (Delia spp.): Root maggots were at noticeable levels in fields near Foxwarren (NW), Snow Flake (C), and Carman (C). Bertha Armyworm (Mamestra configurata): Pheromone-baited traps to monitor adult moths of bertha armyworm were set up at 78 locations in Manitoba in 2009. The monitoring period was June 8th to August 3rd. Cumulative moth counts suggested populations were at low risk of being problematic in all regions of Manitoba in 2009. Highest trap counts for 2009 were from fields near Hamiota (292), and Russell (274), both in the low risk category. Peak trap catches occurred in most traps during the weeks of July 6-12th and July 13-19th, later than in many years. There were no reports of insecticides being applied to control bertha armyworm in Manitoba in 2009. Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella): Pheromone-baited traps for adult moths were set up at 80 locations in Manitoba in 2009. The monitoring period was generally from May 18th to July 5th. Counts were generally low. The highest cumulative counts were 53 from a trap near The Pas (NW), 36 near Landmark (E), and 30 near Carey (E). The highest single week count was 30 near Carey (E) during the week of June 15-

21. There were no reports of diamondback moth larvae approaching economic threshold levels in canola fields in 2009. Aphids: Some high levels of aphids clustering on tips of canola was reported from fields near Dominion City (E). Lygus bugs (Lygus spp.): Levels of lygus bugs in canola were generally low, and there were no reports of populations near or at economic threshold.

FLAX (Flax-287,727 acres↑)

Potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae): There were no reports of potato aphid being at economical levels in flax in 2009. Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers were reported to be at high levels and clipping bolls in a flax field near Arnaud (E).

SUNFLOWERS (118,363 acres non-oil↑; 31,528 acres oil↓)

Wireworms: There were no reports of wireworm damage to sunflowers in Manitoba in 2009. Cutworms: Cutworms were at damaging levels in many sunflower fields, particularly in the Central and Southwest regions. There were reports of sunflower fields near MacGregor (C), Austin (C), Holland (C), Treherne (C), Sanford (C), and Waskada (SW) being sprayed with insecticide to control cutworms. A sunflower field near Sanford had to be reseeded because of cutworm damage. Dingy and redbacked cutworm were the dominant species reported in many sunflower fields. Sunflower beetle (Zygogramma exclamationis): Sunflower beetle populations were generally below economic threshold. A couple of sunflower fields near Elm Creek (C) were treated with insecticide in June to manage sunflower beetles. Seedhead Insects Many fields of confection sunflowers were again treated with insecticides during early flowering to control mainly banded Sunflower Moth (Cochylis hospes) and Lygus bugs (Lygus spp.). Populations of Red sunflower seed weevil (Smicronyx fulvus) were very low again this year, and usually hard to find when scouting for insects on sunflower heads. Pheromone-baited trap for banded sunflower moth were placed in sunflower fields at 6 locations: fields near Winnipeg (C), Altona (C), Kalieda (C), Treherne (C), Souris (SW), and Waskada (SW) as part of a program to monitor the emergence and relative abundance of banded sunflower moths in sunflower growing areas of Canada and the U.S. Highest cumulative trap counts from Manitoba were from the western areas of the province; 517 at Waskada, 471 at Souris, and 352 at Treherne. The plant bug Chlamydatus associatus was often common on sunflower heads. What it is feeding on and whether it can cause damage to sunflowers is not known.

BEANS (Dry Edible) (140,232 acres↓: White pea (navy)-38,378 acres↓, pinto-64,971 acres↑, black-14,877 acres↓, kidney-13,739 acres↓, cranberry-1,246 acres↓, small red-1,809 acres↓, other dry ebible-5,212 acres) Seedcorn maggot (Delia platura): High levels of seedcorn maggots were noted in some fields of dry beans west of Altona. Grasshoppers: There were a few reports of fields or edges of dry bean fields being treated for grasshopper control in the Central region.

PEAS (Field) (76,642 acres↓)

Pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum): There were some pea fields in the Southwest and Central regions that had insecticides applied to control aphids in mid-July.

SOYBEANS (441,938 acres↑)

Soybean Aphid (Aphis glycines): Soybean aphids were not noticed in Manitoba until the second week in August in 2009. Although populations did increase throughout August, they did not reach economic levels.

FABABEANS (5,414 acres↓)

Blister beetles: A demonstration of 0-tannin fababeans near Melita had heavy feeding from the ashgray blister beetle (Epicauta fabricii).

LENTILS (2,027 acres↑)

Aphids: High levels of aphids were noted on some lentils in the southwest.

CANARYSEED (15,391 acres↓)

Aphids: A few fields of canaryseed in the Central region were treated with insecticides to control aphids.

HEMP (4,878 acres for grain↑)

No economical insect concerns were reported from hemp in 2009.

FORAGES AND FORAGE SEED Plant Bugs: Lygus bugs (generally Lygus lineolaris and L. borealis in alfalfa) were nearly notable in their absence. It appears as though Lygus may have had only a single generation rather than the usual two generations experienced in Manitoba. There was an occasional late season complaint about “outbreaks” in September though this is likely just the adults that will overwinter congregating on whatever was green. Work on fall populations of Lygus in buckwheat and alfalfa grown for seed in Manitoba has indicated that little feeding damage occurs at this time of year.

Alfalfa plant bug (Adelphocoris lineolatus) numbers were by contrast up in some alfalfa fields sampled, notably one organic field. Alfalfa Weevil (Hypera postica): The key pest in alfalfa (for seed and hay) remains the alfalfa weevil. Sweep net sampling was carried out on a weekly basis in nine separate fields (100 – 180o sweeps per field) for weevils beginning in early May and carried through until early September. Weather conditions proved to be less than ideal for sweep net sampling and as a result detection of populations was difficult. Samples often returned few or no weevils, presumably because the weevils were very low in the canopy in response to the rainfall and below seasonal temperatures. No weevils (adults or larvae) were picked up in samples until 22 June, much later than expected. Number peaked, depending on the field, between 29 June and 13 July. As these were commercial fields, growers applied control measures upon learning of substantial populations, and populations dropped to near zero. Larvae and occasional adults continued to be collected through the season with the last positive sample occurring on 25 August (adults and larvae collected). In comparison to 2008, a single insecticide application (in most cases Matador due to proximal timing of bee release) in 2009 provided adequate control of weevil populations, where there were reports in 2008 of multiple applications. A better understanding of timing by growers probably reduced the number of applications more than any population shifts in the weevil. Numerous larvae (approximately 10,000) appeared to be parasitized and samples were turned over to the University of Manitoba for examination at a later date. During the initial years of the weevil infestation in the Interlake region of Manitoba, populations were very high and in some fields quite devastating. This is likely due to an absence of the alfalfa weevil’s normal parasitoid guild during the first years of infestation in this region.

POTATOES (66,679 acres↓; 55,933 acres processing potatoes (irrigated)↓, 6,540 acres processing potatoes (dry)↓, 4,206 acres table potatoes↑) Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decimlineata): Colorado potato beetles were deemed by growers to be “low” in 2009. Field sampling however showed that populations were at normal levels, but the cool, wet weather suppressed activity considerably giving the impression that populations were lower. Damage was less significant than would be expected in a normal year weather wise. Samples of adult populations were sent to Jeff Tolman at London AAFC for testing for resistance to imidacloprid and other insecticides. Thus far the Manitoba population has shown no resistance to imidacloprid. Aphids: Aphid populations were moderate to high depending upon the field. Potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) was the most dominant species though considerable populations of green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) moved into fields in late August and early September, possibly due to swathing of canola. Monitoring of aphid populations for the past seven or eight growing seasons has anecdotally shown a correlation between canola swathing and appearance of first green peach aphid in potato crops. Populations of aphids in Western Manitoba in September were high enough for occasional formation of “aphid holes” – areas where the canopy collapses due to feeding pressure from high numbers of aphids. Wireworms: Wireworm populations remain relatively low in potatoes and presumably continue to be prairie wireworm species. Potato leafhopper (Empoasca fabae): Potato leafhopper was negligible in 2009. The general expectation of potato leafhopper populations is for there to be significant levels only once in every five to seven years as this is a migratory pest from the Gulf States whose migration trajectory tends to take it to the east of Manitoba. We always have some low level populations but control measures are required only in high pressure years.

Potato flea beetle (Epitrix cucumeris): Potato flea beetle populations were extremely low in 2009, probably owing to the cool, wet weather that did not favor their survival.

CARROTS, COLE CROPS and other vegetable crops Carrots: Aster leafhopper (Macrosteles quadrilineatus) populations were very low throughout the majority of the growing season. Weekly sampling by sweep net (100 – 180o sweeps per field) was carried out in several fields and populations did not reach economic levels until early-September after temperatures had increased substantially relative to what was experienced prior in the season, coupled with strong south winds for a considerable period of time. While aster leafhopper may overwinter to some degree in Manitoba, the numbers of these overwintering leafhoppers are generally insignificant from an economic standpoint and remain that way unless a sizeable migratory population arrives from the south as well. It was a considerable surprise to see the numbers jump so significantly in September, but most carrot fields needed treatment with insecticides at that time. Brassicas: No formal sampling for Swede midge (Contarinia nasturtii) was carried out, other than visual inspection in a number of fields scouted on a regular basis and no evidence of the pest was found. No complaints from growers were received though they may either still not know what they are looking for or may be reluctant to mention they have the pest. Imported cabbageworm (Pieris rapae) numbers appear to be rebounding to some degree. After a significant outbreak several years ago, the population crashed and had remained remarkably low in the interim. Through August, adults were numerous and the resultant larval populations required control.

BERRY CROPS

The primary complaint in strawberries, as is common, was tarnished plant bug (L. lineolaris) though visits to farms turned up remarkably few insects in samples. It was quite likely the catfacing of the berries that was reported and attributed to tarnished plant bug was a result of the poor weather conditions and negative impacts on pollinators that has the same resultant physical appearance on the berries.

TREES AND SHELTERBELTS At least one species of ash plant bug (Tropidosteptes amoenus) and possibly a second caused considerable impact on ash trees in Manitoba with leaf drop being a common complaint. Numerous aphid species were abundant and a regular complaint received as well. Defoliators were also broadly represented during extension calls. Several reports of emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) were investigated throughout the summer, all of which proved to be negative. Given the relative proximity of the latest find (St. Paul, MN; approximately 500 miles south) and the propensity for U.S. citizens to carry firewood with them, it is expected that emerald ash borer will be within the province relatively soon. Pessimistic estimates place it at 1-2 years; optimistic estimates give us 5 years.

INSECTS IN STORED GRAIN In general, stored product insect pest discoveries are again higher than normal. Rusty Grain Beetle (Cryptolestes ferrugineus) continues to be the most common insect found in stored grain. Discoveries have been greatest in stored wheat and barley A large proportion of cereals harvested in the prairies this year were put into storage at temperatures over 30ºC. It is important that producers prepare bins properly before storing grain, and use aeration techniques (aeration fans or grain turning) to lower and standardize the grain temperature. Lowering grain temperature below 15ºC as soon as possible reduces the risk of insects feeding and reproducing.

ISSUES: Work is needed to review or research economic thresholds for alfalfa weevil in western Canada. Some regions (such as Ontario and Ohio) recommend economic thresholds that are adjusted for the height of the alfalfa. No insecticides are registered in Canada for banded sunflower moths in sunflowers. Research is needed to determine the feeding habits and impact (if any) of Chlamydatus associatus on sunflowers. Research is needed on economic thresholds for grasshoppers in flax, and conditions resulting in boll clipping.

FUTURE PLANS: Cereal Leaf Beetle (Oulema melanopus): Monitoring to determine the distribution of cereal leaf beetle in Manitoba will be conducted in 2010.

Appendix II – Provincial Research Reports

RESEARCH PROGRESS ON INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT IN BRITISH COLUMBIA - 2009

Compiled by R. S. Vernon and M. Clodius

Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre (AAFC) 6947 #7 Hwy. - P.O. Box 1000

Agassiz, B.C. V0M 1A0 Bob.Vernon@agr.gc.ca

______________________________________________________________________________ Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada, PARC Agassiz: 2009 Insect Pest Research Report Title 1: Effect of residual Capture 2EC on wireworms. Author and Associates: Wim van Herk, Selina McGinnis, and Bob Vernon. Problem: The movement of wireworms to the soil surface, but not to bait traps, in potato plots treated with Capture 2EC (bifenthrin) the previous year indicated that this insecticide may be highly persistent.

Objective of Research: To determine if soil treated with Capture 2EC one year previously still has toxic effects on wireworms. Summary of Results: Soil was collected from field plots treated with Capture 2EC (in-furrow spray) in 2008, and from untreated plots of the same study, and both sets of samples were separately screened and homogenized. Healthy wireworms (Agriotes obscurus) placed in cups filled with treated soil became moribund and started appearing on the soil surface within 24 hours. Wireworms remained ill and continued moving to the surface after being re-buried for the duration of the study (8 weeks), but were not killed by the residual Capture. Moribund wireworms recovered within one week when moved into clean soil, and wireworms did not become ill or move to the soil surface when placed in untreated soil. These results indicate that Capture 2EC can persist in the soil at levels toxic to insects for over a year, and our finding bird feces containing wireworm bits in the treated sample plots suggest this product could bioaccumulate. Subsequent observations of wireworms in soil windows filled with regions of both clean soil and soil taken from plots treated with Capture 2EC the previous year indicated that wireworms will enter the Capture-treated soil, but become moribund quickly after entry and thereafter attempt to move back into the clean soil. Continuing Research: This work will be repeated in 2010, using soil from potato field plots treated with various concentrations of Capture 2EC this spring. In addition, soil samples will be sent to an analytical laboratory for residue testing. Contact: Dr. Wim van Herk Tel: (604) 796-2221, ext. 1234 Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: Wim.VanHerk@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0

Title 2: An internet-based directory of microbial pesticides. Author and Associates: Todd Kabaluk, John Valentino (AAFC), and Katka Gazdik. Problem: There is currently significant attention focused on microbial pesticides for agriculture: i) advanced research and testing carried out by government and universities; ii) government programs to facilitate their advancement and use; iii) international activities to harmonize regulation among developed countries; and iv) the slow but sure increase in facilities capable of large scale production of bacteria, fungi, and baculoviruses for pest control. Apart from developing new products within Canada ‘from the ground up’ (i.e. research and development followed by the lengthy and expensive fulfillment of registration requirements), products from other countries with utility for Canadian agriculture are worth exploring and could offer a path of least resistance on the road to a Canadian registration. This is particularly true when considered together with the increased effort by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to harmonize registration processes among its members. But what products are available in these countries? For which crops and pests are they registered and how might they be obtained? We have compiled the ‘Directory of Microbial Pesticides for Agricultural Use in OECD Countries’ to offer a ‘pick list’ for anyone searching for new products for testing in Canada. Up until now, availability of the directory has been limited, and there is a need for it to be easily accessed.

Objective of Research: i) to migrate currently available information on all microbial pesticide products from the 30 member countries to an Oracle database that is easily searchable using drop-down menus on the World-Wide Web; ii) to gather a consortium of representatives from OECD countries to append the database with new products as they become available in individual member countries; iii) to denote OMRI-listed products in the database [Organic Materials Review Institute]. Summary of Results: Initially, an MS Access database was developed that is current up to 2007. This database was converted to a searchable PDF document that up until recently was available on AAFC’s Pest Management Centre (PMC) website. However, due to recent changes in AAFC’s ‘common look and feel’ policies, the PDF version has become available from the PMC by special request only. In response to this, we are taking the opportunity to make the Oracle database searchable by drop-down menus, and post it on the internet to reach the widest audience. To date, the data (microbial pesticide products and associated information) have been migrated to the Oracle database, and a static version of the user interface constructed. Continuing Research: It is expected that the live internet version of this database will be available sometime in 2010. We will continue to develop an efficient method for capturing new products as they become available, and this part of the work is expected to transpire over the next few years. Contact: Todd Kabaluk Tel: (604) 796-1710 Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: Todd.Kabaluk@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0

Title 3: An easy-to-use trap for monitoring wireworms. Author and Associates: Todd Kabaluk, Beth McCannel, Jeff Tolman, and Bob Vernon (AAFC). Problem: Wireworms are difficult to census, mainly because their occurrence is erratic, which is likely due to variations in environmental conditions and their behaviour and phenology. Our current knowledge does not allow us to make reliable predictions of their occurrence in the context of crop protection. While pest sampling and monitoring for crop protection is well-developed for many crop-pest situations, it has not accelerated to completion for wireworms, likely because trap catches have been unreliable (particularly the risky and unacceptable likelihood of zero-catches in fields with infestations) and current trap designs require so much preparation and labour that the advancement of monitoring methods by means of research has been discouraged. However, we have developed a wireworm trap (probe trap) that, because of its low maintenance and ease of use, will attract researchers and accelerate the acquisition of fundamental information leading to sampling methods for crop protection. Objective of Research: The objectives of this work are to compare the efficacy of the probe trap to common designs (primarily, the classic grain bait trap), to determine trap placement and timing, and determine the field conditions necessary for a reliable assessment of wireworm populations using the probe trap. Longer-term objectives are to compare full count and binomial sampling methods and develop action thresholds for specific crops. Summary of Results: The summer of 2008 followed the invention of the probe trap and included some preliminary comparisons to the classic grain bait trap. Results showed that the probe trap wireworm catches were comparable. Numerous field trials were carried out in 2009 with thousands of trap catches being assessed, together with ongoing logging of soil temperature and moisture. Two findings were contrary to expectations: i) it appears that single strips roto-tilled in forage/pasture/grass fields provide adequate conditions for assessing wireworm populations, although the nuances of field treatment still need to be fully quantified; ii) fallow fields with known high wireworm populations do not ensure the capture of wireworms in any type of trap. Continuing Research: Results to date have offered enough promise that we will begin looking toward the full development of a sampling method. Due to the large body of data required in this pursuit, we invite other researchers to participate in this work, and plan to test the trap on farms. Research will continue to the level at which this work is funded. Contact: Todd Kabaluk Tel: (604) 796-1710 Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: Todd.Kabaluk@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 Title 4: Yield increase of corn following seed treatment with Metarhizium anisopliae. Author and Associates: Todd Kabaluk, Beth McCannel (AAFC), and Jarrod Leland (Novozymes Biologicals, Inc.) Summary: In the course of experimenting with the biological control of wireworms, we discovered that treating corn seed with spores of the insect pathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae resulted in an 11% increase in stand density and a

20% increase in area fresh weight yield, based on field trials at three locations over two years. These results represent significant opportunities for increased crop production for farmers, and depending on the discovery of the mode of action for this increase, will advance environmentally sustainable pest control or crop nutrition management practices. The original purpose of the Metarhizium seed treatments was to protect the corn plants from wireworm feeding damage, as Metarhizium is a fungal biocontrol that has been developed for pest control in other countries. However, it is suspected that the yield increase could be caused by factors relating to plant growth stimulus, e.g. increasing nutrient uptake of germinating seeds, reducing germination time by breaking down the seed coat, and/or competition with seed-rotting fungi. A comprehensive research study is needed to proceed to understand the factors responsible for increasing corn yield so that this seed treatment technology can be developed as a product for farmers. From a commercial point of view, the understanding of the mode of action will determine if commercial development should proceed as a pest control product (guided by the Pest Control Products Act) or a growth promoter (guided by the Fertilizers Act). The creation of either product will serve farmers immediately, as the bioproduct industry is well-positioned and motivated to adapt this technology to market application as has been done for a number of microbial seed treatments. An increase in yield will provide a competitive edge to the farmers using the technology, particularly at a time when the production of corn-derived ethanol, environmentally-responsible farming and demand for related products, and the use of biological inputs are all growing rapidly. Discovering the mode of action for the increased yield will be a significant contribution to science: both the use of microbial insecticides and recent discoveries on beneficial effects of certain insect-pathogenic fungi on plant growth are new areas in science. The discovery and publication of the mode of action will enable other researchers to further advance sustainable agriculture and the bioproduct industries serving it. Objective of Research: To discover the mode of action that causes the increase in corn yield following seed treatment with Metarhizium anisopliae so that it can be commercialized and used by farmers. Summary of Results: The five field trials showing the yield increase in corn took place in 2005 and 2006 and were published. Recent laboratory experiments up to 2009 have shown that Metarhizium increases germination of corn seeds but repellency to wireworms has also been shown. It is unclear if either one or both of these factors, or other unrelated factors contribute to the yield increase mode of action of Metarhizium. Continuing Research: This research work requires the attention of a dedicated scientist at the level of Post-Doctoral Fellow. Together with Novozymes Biologicals, we are pursuing funding opportunities to establish this work. Contact: Todd Kabaluk Tel: (604) 796-1710 Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: Todd.Kabaluk@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 Title 5: Canada-wide wireworm surveys. Author and Associates: Wim van Herk, Bob Vernon, and Markus Clodius (AAFC, Agassiz) Problem: Several species of wireworms in Canada are known to cause crop damage. These species span several genera, and can have quite different life histories, morphologies and behaviour. This makes developing control strategies more complicated, and our lab has determined that insecticide efficacy, LD50s and behavioural responses to pesticides (e.g.

repellency) can vary significantly between species. Because of these differences, control strategies in the future may require that we know what species are present. Objective of Research: The objective of this project is to collect and identify wireworms from infested crops across Canada, and to gradually construct a wireworm species map that can be used to aid in IPM strategies in the future. This is currently being achieved through collections made by a consortium of grower, government and agri-business field personnel. Summary of Results: Between 2007 and 2009, wireworms have been collected from about 70 locations across Canada and submitted to PARC Agassiz for identification. It is expected that the survey will take several more years to complete. Continuing Research: The survey will continue indefinitely, and there is an ongoing need for samples to be collected from damaged fields by grower, extension and field personnel. For more information or contributions to the cause you can contact the address below. Contact: Dr. Wim van Herk Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 1234) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: Wim.VanHerk@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0

Title 6: Evaluating various insecticides for control of wireworms in potatoes (2003-2008). Author and Associates: Bob Vernon, Markus Clodius, Wim van Herk and Victoria Brookes (AAFC, Agassiz). Problem: Wireworms of various species continue to cause increasing problems in the major potato growing provinces of Canada. Growers rely almost exclusively on the organophosphate Thimet (phorate). Thimet, however, will be withdrawn from Canada in 2012, and acceptable replacements must be registered by that time. Chlorpyrifos (Pyrinex 480EC), has been found to consistently provide acceptable daughter tuber protection and reduce wireworm populations when applied as an in-furrow spray. This product was granted a Canada-wide Minor Use Registration in 2006, however, chlorpyrifos is not registered on potatoes in the USA and there is no residue tolerance for raw or processed potatoes entering the USA. The neonicotinoids Poncho 600FS (clothianidin) and Cruiser 5FS (thiamethoxam) applied as potato seed piece treatments were found to fairly consistently reduce daughter tuber damage by Agriotes obscurus in BC. However, the effectiveness of these products has been more variable on other species occurring in AAFC-run studies in Ontario, Nova Scotia and PEI. Since these insecticides reversibly intoxicate, rather than kill wireworms, population levels are not reduced to the levels observed with Thimet 15G. A Canada-wide Minor Use Registration has now been granted for clothianidin (Poncho, Titan) as a potato seed piece treatment for wireworm damage ‘suppression’. Full registration has also been obtained for thiamethoxam (Cruiser, Actara) as an in-furrow spray at planting and as a seed piece treatment, but wireworms are not on the label. Clothianidin and thiamethoxam are also registered on potatoes in the USA. Clothianidin or thiamethoxam seed piece treatments combined with chlorpyrifos in-furrow sprays (Pyrinex 480EC) at planting in BC trials between 2005-2007, provided daughter tuber protection and wireworm population reduction as good or better than Thimet 15G, and control of other above-ground pests such as tuber flea beetles was excellent. Due to trade restrictions with chlorpyrifos, however, a USA-Canada registered alternative to chlorpyrifos is needed that can be used alone or combined with clothianidin or thiamethoxam to provide daughter tuber protection, wireworm population reduction, and control of above ground pests. The focus in 2008 (2 studies) and 2009 (1 study) has been on evaluating the USA-registered synthetic pyrethroid (SP) bifenthrin (Capture 2EC) alone or in combination with clothianidin and thiamethoxam. Bifenthrin has recently been submitted by FMC for full registration as a wireworm control in potatoes in Canada. Another SP, lambda cyhalothrin (Matador) was also evaluated in 2009. Objective of Research: To evaluate candidate insecticides and application methods for control of wireworms in potatoes. More specifically, to evaluate the USA-registered synthetic pyrethroid bifenthrin (2008-2009), and the Canadian/USA-registered lambda cyhalothrin (2009) as a substitute for chlorpyrifos as an in-furrow spray at planting. Bifenthrin (Capture) was tested in 2008 and 2009 as an in-furrow spray alone and in combination with clothianidin (Poncho 600FS) as a seed piece treatment, and with thiamethoxam (Actara 240 SC) as an in-furrow spray. Lambda cyhalothrin (Matador) was evaluated in 2009 as an in-furrow spray. The focus of these studies was to determine the efficacy of these various treatments in: a) protecting daughter tubers from damage; and b) reducing wireworm populations. The final goal is to determine if bifenthrin and possibly lambda cyhalothrin can be used either alone or in combination with other

products (neonicotinoids) as acceptable substitutes for chlorpyrifos and Thimet 15G, and provide efficacy data in support of various new registrations in Canada. Summary of Results: Studies were conducted in 2008 and 2009 on the European wireworms Agriotes obscurus and A. lineatus at the Pacific Agri-Food Research Center in Agassiz, B.C., and additional studies have also been conducted on various wireworm species (e.g. Melanotus spp.) near London, ON, (Dr. Jeff Tolman, AAFC), Guelph, ON (A. Dornan, Bayer CropScience) and on the European wireworm, Agriotes sputator in Charlottetown, PEI (Dr. Christine Noronha, AAFC). In the 2008 BC studies, Capture 2EC in-furrow spray (tested at the rate registered in the USA) was as effective at protecting daughter tubers from wireworm damage as Pyrinex 480EC and Thimet 15G . No control of flea beetle damage was observed with Capture, as would be expected with a non-systemic insecticide. The neonicotinoids Poncho 600FS applied as a potato seed piece treatment and Actara 240 SC applied as an in-furrow spray were not as effective at reducing wireworm damage as in past years. When these neonicotinoid seed treatments were combined with Capture 2 EC in-furrow sprays, efficacy in reducing damage was similar to that of Capture 2 EC alone. The efficacy of Capture 2EC with and without the neonicotinoid treatments in reducing wireworm populations was determined by bait trapping the 2008 plots in the spring of 2009. It is interesting to note that the lowest number of wireworms taken in bait traps in 2009 were in any treatment that contained Capture 2EC. We have since discovered, however, that the low numbers captured in the Capture plots may not be due to mortality, but possibly to repellency from the test area, and/or long-term morbidity. We also discovered that soil taken from the Capture plots about 10 months after treatment induced almost immediate morbidity in healthy wireworms in lab studies. This suggests that there may be significant carryover of bifenthrin residues 10 months after planting. These findings are being further investigated in association with FMC. Work in 2009 has looked at the efficacy of Capture 2EC applied at 3.0 (maximum rate), 2.0 and 1.0 grams ai/100 m of row to determine if lower rates will provide adequate wireworm control. The 2009 studies have recently been harvested, and damage to daughter tubers has not as yet been graded. Continuing Research: It is expected that this work will continue for at least one more year. Contact: Dr. Bob Vernon Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 212) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: vernonbs@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 Title 7: Evaluating various insecticides for control of the wireworm Agriotes obscurus in wheat. Author and Associates: Bob Vernon, Markus Clodius, Wim van Herk, Chantelle Harding (AAFC, Agassiz). Problem: Various species of wireworms are known to cause serious damage to cereal crops across Canada. Problems with wireworms in general are increasing in many Canadian farming systems, especially on the prairies where cereal crops abound. This increase in damage has been attributed, at least in part, to the loss of the

organochlorine insecticide lindane as a cereal and forage crop seed treatment. Studies have been underway at PARC, Agassiz since 1996 to find lower-risk insecticides to replace lindane. Objective of Research: Between 2002-2009, studies in Agassiz have focused on a number of low-risk (imidacloprid, clothianidin, thiamethoxam) to moderate-risk (tefluthrin, fipronil) candidate insecticides as seed treatments for management of the dusky wireworm, Agriotes obscurus, in wheat. In addition, various combinations of insecticides have also been tested in attempts to improve efficacy and reduce wireworm numbers to levels achieved by the former lindane seed treatments. Efficacy is measured by observing the indirect impacts of wireworms on the crop (i.e. crop stand establishment and yield), as well as the direct effects of candidate insecticides on wireworm populations (i.e. examinations of wireworms from plots, and population levels in plots the following spring). The focus has been on products that have current or pending registration status in Canada (i.e. imidacloprid, clothianidin and thiamethoxam) to facilitate pursuit of Full, Emergency, or Minor Use registrations in cereals for wireworm control. Summary of Results: Measurements of crop stand establishment over time and yield at harvest suggest clothianidin and thiamethoxam are highly effective materials for suppression of wireworm damage. Imidacloprid will also suppress wireworm damage at higher application rates. Sampling of wireworms in these plots the following year, however, showed that wireworm populations are not significantly reduced. As mentioned in other reports, wireworms exposed to neonicotinoids (in this case on wheat seed) become intoxicated long enough for the crop to become established, but then fully recover later in the season. Of major importance is that reduction in numbers of neonate wireworms was also low or absent in these trials relative to lindane treated seeds, suggesting that neonicotinoids would not provide the longer term wireworm control experienced with lindane treatments. In past, growers would only have to plant lindane-treated crops of wheat once every 3-4 years. These studies also suggest that fipronil seed treatments will provide excellent crop stand protection as well as virtual eradication of wireworm populations. The 2006-2009 studies have focused on evaluating fipronil at lower rates to determine the lowest effective dose to both protect the crop and significantly reduce wireworm populations. Continuing Research: It is expected that this work will continue for at least one more year. Contact: Dr. Bob Vernon Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 212) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: vernonbs@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0

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Title 8: Towards physical control of cabbage root maggot (Delia radicum): A study of adult distribution, oviposition and damage inside a large-scale fenced rutabaga field. Author and Associates: Bob Vernon (AAFC, Agassiz), Renee Prasad (E.S. Cropconsult Ltd), Susan Smith (BCMAL), Kevin Husband (Emma Lea Farms), Problem: Cabbage root maggot (Delia radicum) is the key pest of rutabaga production in southwestern BC. The current tool box for management of this pest is limited to chlorpyrifos (Lorsban), against which resistance has been documented in local populations of D. radicum, and diazinon, which has limited efficacy. In previous work, vertical fences enclosing various brassica plantings have been shown to reduce adult female populations by up to 90% and subsequent damage to the crop. Fence efficacy has been shown to increase with the addition of an outward vertical overhang and with fence height. Grower uptake of this technology however had previously been unenthusiastic due to the efficacy and availability of chemical tools. With the loss of the most efficacious insecticides (i.e. an Emergency Use Registration for Furadan (carbofuran) in BC), and the development of resistance to Lorsban, growers have recently become interested in a diversified IPM tool box for this pest, and have specifically requested that demonstration projects be established for exclusion fences. Objective of Research: To test the hypothesis that as the area enclosed by a fence increases, the amount of damage caused by cabbage maggot flies that defeat the fence will decrease per plant inside the fence. To test this hypothesis required: a) a large fenced field; b) a large non-fenced field; and c) methods of measuring the distribution of adult cabbage fly, oviposition and root damage inside the fenced and non-fenced fields. Summary of results:

1. Adult distribution. Within a 2.7 ha, roughly square fenced field, 104 yellow sticky card catches distributed throughout the field and changed weekly, demonstrated that populations of male and female D. radicum that were able to enter the fence were highly aggregated close to the inside of the fence. Populations dropped rapidly between 1 and 6 m inside the fence, and were quite low at about 13 m and beyond. This was also observed with male and female seed corn flies, D. platura. In a 3 ha non-fenced field, populations of both D. radicum and D. platura penetrated much further into the field, and the decline on sticky traps was more gradual. 2. Oviposition and root damage. Egg counts were done on a weekly basis in both fields. In the fenced field, 40 sites for egg counts were spaced around the interior perimeter of the fence within 2-6 m from the fence. An additional 20 sites were spaced within the field interior along four transects. The majority of eggs found were located within 2 and 6 m of the fence and most of these were concentrated at the corners of the field. Eggs were not found within the field interior until 6 weeks after the field had been fenced, and even then were rare. Root damage at harvest was 1.4% culls within the field interior, 10% culls at 1-6 m from the fence, and 35% culls in the four corners of the field. In the non-fenced field, egg laying on plants and subsequent damage was highest near the outer perimeters of the field (>80% culls) and in especially in the field corners (95% culls), but extended much further into the field than in the fenced field. Damage was still 21.5% culls at 43 m into the field.

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3. Grower response. The cooperating grower expressed interest in the fencing throughout the study period. The grower and field crew noticed improved yields in a fenced field compared to an unfenced field that were both harvested over a period of several weeks. The grower took down the fence, and was able to do so in four hours with a crew of six and a tractor. The grower has confirmed participation in 2010, has expressed interest in reducing pesticide inputs within a fenced field, and in adapting other cultural practices that will improve maggot control. 4. Conclusions. D. radicum females able to defeat the fence did not distribute themselves uniformly throughout the field, but congregated near the inside of the fence, where adults, egg laying and damage were most pronounced within 6 m of the fence. This suggests that within a large fenced area (> 2 ha), additional control efforts to control D. radicum and D. platura adults might be restricted to a 10 m corridor inside the fence. Continuing research: Various methods of managing populations along 10 m corridors inside fenced rutabagas will be developed and tested in additional large scale fencing trials in 2010, pending funding. A monitoring protocol will be developed specifically to support reduced pesticide sprays within the fenced area. A more cost-effective design for the fence will also be developed for 2010. Contact: Dr. Bob Vernon Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 212) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: vernonbs@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0

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Figure 1. View of a 2.7 ha rutabaga field surrounded by an exclusion fence in Delta, B.C. Picture taken on July 3, 2009 approximately 10 weeks after the fence had been established. _____________________________________________________________________________ Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada, PARC Summerland: 2009 Insect Pest Research Report No reports submitted. ____________________________________________________________________________ British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Lands: 2009 Insect Research Report Title 9: Survey of caterpillar species in hazelnut orchards in the eastern Fraser Valley of British Columbia, 2007-2009. Author and Associates: Tracy Hueppelsheuser, Mark Sweeney (BCMAL), BC Hazelnut Growers Association. Acknowledgements to two summer students (Evelyn Verhoef, Greg Welfing), one contractor (Tammas Grogan), and AAFC (Sheila Fitzpatrick, B.C. Schmidt, Jean-Francois Landry) for their hard work, advice, and expertise. Problem: Caterpillar pests of hazelnuts can be significant. Growers are interested in using low-toxicity pesticides and alternative practices to control pests where possible, such as DiPel (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) or Trichogramma spp. In order to use these tools effectively, caterpillar species needs to be verified, and growers need to understand the pest biology as well as ways to monitor these pests.

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Objective of Research: To survey a few hazelnut orchards for caterpillar pests in southern BC: specifically, gather larvae, document damage, and identify species at various times throughout the growing season to create a better understanding of the lepidopteran pest complex. Summary of Results: 2007 and 2008 methods and some preliminary results were presented to WCCP in 2008. Caterpillars collected in May and June 2008 were reared to adults. Moths were prepared and sent to National Identification Service, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Ottawa for species identification. Early spring-feeding caterpillars were Winter moth (Operophtera brumata), an introduced species to British Columbia which appears to have spread eastward from the west coast over the last 15 years or so. Sample sites (Greendale, Agassiz) were approximately 150 km west of the coast (Vancouver). Leafroller caterpillars collected and reared were exclusively European leafroller (Archips rosana), also called Filbert leafroller in the USA. This may be a new or unrecorded host record for Canada. Continuing Research: More caterpillar collections are planned for 2010. Contact: Tracy Hueppelsheuser BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford, BC, V3G 2M3 Tracy.Hueppelsheuser@gov.bc.ca. Title 10: Biopesticide efficacy trials on grasshoppers on rangeland in British Columbia in 2008. Author and Associates: Tracy Hueppelsheuser, Susanna Acheampong, Graham Strachan (BCMAL). Acknowledgements to Dan Johnson (University of Lethbridge), Stefan Jaronski (USDA), Greg Welfing and Tamara McKinney (BCMAL summer students) for their guidance and hard work. Problem: Grasshoppers are a sporadic but significant pest in British Columbia. They build up over time in ideal sites, which tend to be hot and dry. In outbreak situations, food sources can include gardens, trees, and any other accessible plants. There are several components to a good grasshopper management program, including habitat management and appropriate pesticide use. Objective of Research: At the time of the trials in 2008, there were no organically-approved or biological pesticides registered for grasshopper management in Canada. NoloBait, Nosema locusta, has since become registered in Canada. In our trials, we compared some ‘soft’ pesticides to a broad-spectrum industry standard. Summary of Results: Two sites were chosen with high grasshopper levels in the Lillooett-Lytton-Spences Bridge area. Treatments were: Entrust 80W (80% spinosad), Tick-Ex (11% Metarhizium anisopliae strain F52), Sevin SLR spray (42.8% carbaryl), Eco-bran bait (2% carbaryl), and untreated. Pesticides were applied on June 23 and 24, 2008, when there were significant pest species at the appropriate size (mostly 2nd-4th instar nymphs). Grasshoppers were collected using sweep nets, counted, and identified to species and age class before the treatments (June 23-24), and then 6 days after the treatments (June 30) and 13 days after (July 7). In addition, visual assessment of grasshopper activity level was recorded on these dates using a scale of 1-10, with 1 being the lowest activity level, and 10 being the highest. In order to detect presence of any grasshopper diseases (entomopathogens), grasshoppers collected from Tick-Ex treated and untreated plots were frozen, plated out and incubated to encourage any pathogens to grow. The main species present at both sites were migratory (Melanoplus sanguinipes), clearwinged (Camnula pellucida), and two-striped (Melanoplus bivittatus) grasshoppers. Grasshopper activity level was significantly lower in the Entrust and Sevin-treated plots than in the other plots 6 days after treatment at Site One. However, by 13 days after treatment, hoppers were flying in from other areas and the plots became re-infested. No statistical difference was detected at Site Two, however, trends indicate a lower activity level in Entrust-treated plots.

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At Site One, sweep net catches indicated that there was a 92% decrease in number of grasshoppers for 2 species present at the time of the spray 6 days after treatment with Entrust 80W. At Site Two, hopper numbers did not increase in Entrust-treated plots, but did increase in untreated and Tick-Ex-treated plots. There were no apparent entomopathogen-infected grasshoppers collected in sweep net samples. It appears that Entrust 80W at the tested rate of 109 g product per hectare is an effective pesticide for management of three main species of pest grasshoppers. Continuing Research: None at this time. A Minor Use application is being developed for Entrust by British Columbia. Contact: Tracy Hueppelsheuser BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford, BC, V3G 2M3 Tracy.Hueppelsheuser@gov.bc.ca. ____________________________________________________________________________ Consulting Firms: 2009 Insect Research Report Title 11: A study of the lifecycle, prevalence, and potential damage of Sparganothis fruitworm (Sparganothis sulphureana) in BC cranberries. Author and Associates: Marybel Soto and Renée Prasad – ES Cropconsult Ltd, Surrey, BC. Problem: Sparganothis fruitworm (Sparganothis sulphureana) larvae are an important pest of cranberries because larvae feed inside berries resulting in direct yield loss. Sparganothis is a primary pest of cranberry growing regions in Eastern United States, and a secondary pest in Eastern Canada. Sparganothis presence in BC cranberries has historically been sporadic, but in recent years it has become an important pest problem in some fields in Langley, Pitt Meadows, and Surrey. A two-year study was conducted to improve our understanding of the status of this pest in BC cranberry fields. Objective of Research: 1. Develop a monitoring protocol for Sparganothis larvae and determine lifecycle in cranberry fields. 2. Conduct an area-wide survey of cranberry farms and surrounding native vegetation in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island to determine presence of this pest in the different cranberry growing regions. 3. Identify natural enemies. 4. Determine if Sparganothis is causing a significant increase in berry damage in BC fields, above that already caused by blackheaded fireworm. Summary of Results: 1. Sweep net sampling is the recommended monitoring technique in eastern North America. In our study sweep net sampling did not collect any larvae – even in patches were Sparganothis activity was confirmed with visual sampling. Sweep nets may not be a suitable tool for Sparganothis larvae sampling in BC due to the thick, overgrown plant canopies and the heavy amount of moisture on leaves during the mornings. Sparganothis larvae were successfully detected through visual sampling using the same protocol that is currently used for blackheaded fireworm. The earliest that larvae were detected in fields was May. However first-generation larvae may not be observed in some fields, if they are controlled by sprays targeting blackheaded fireworm. Also first-instar larvae of both pests are difficult to distinguish from each other - another reason why first-generation Sparganothis larvae may be missed in some fields. Second-generation larvae were detected in all fields; this generation occurred between mid- to late July. Third-generation larvae were detected starting in mid-August. Pheromone trap catches of male moths showed two peaks in activity – early June and August.

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2. An area-wide survey for Sparganothis activity has so far detected moths only on farms in Langley, Pitt Meadows, North Surrey, and Delta, BC. Moths have only been found in native vegetation adjacent to Langley and Pitt Meadows farms. In 2008, one larva was found growing in native vegetation adjacent to a farm in Pitt Meadows. This larva was found on western dock (Rumex occidentalis). 3. In 2009 no parasitoids of Sparganothis were identified. 4. In 2008, we did not observe a correlation between Sparganothis larvae density and the amount of berry damage present in infested hotspots. One reason for this was that both Sparganothis and blackheaded fireworm co-occurred in our hotspots and for many damaged fruit it was difficult to distinguish the damage caused by the two pests. In 2009, we examined berry damage in a field with only blackheaded fireworm and a field with both Sparganothis and blackheaded fireworm. Preliminary results indicate that berry damage is higher when both pests are present, indicating that Sparganothis can increase berry damage. Continuing Research: Continue with area-wide survey for pest activity and continue with survey of natural enemies. In areas where Sparganothis is a well-established pest, native natural enemies play an important role in its control. Contact: Renee Prasad Tel: 604-835-2871 ES Cropconsult Ltd. e-mail: renee@escrop.com 6145 171A Street Surrey, BC V3S 5S1 Title 12: Developing a new monitoring protocol for thrips in day-neutral strawberries. Author and Associates: Carolyn Teasdale, Amanda Brown and Renee Prasad – ES Cropconsult Ltd, Surrey, BC. Problem: Recently thrips have caused economic damage to day-neutral strawberries in the Fraser Valley, BC. Feeding by thrips causes the developing berries to become desiccated and unmarketable. Although several thrips species are present the majority of damage to strawberries appears to be caused by Western flower thrips, consistent with findings in other strawberry-producing regions, e.g. California. The standard monitoring protocol for thrips is flower tapping, and this has been widely used for monitoring of June-bearing strawberries in BC. While June-bearing strawberries bloom for a short window of time, day-neutral strawberries have a prolonged bloom period, which means that flower tapping will be required for twelve weeks rather than four. Although flower tapping is effective at detecting thrips, it is labour-intensive. Thus the monitoring costs for day-neutral strawberries are much higher. The objective of this study is to find an alternate, and less labour-intensive, method for thrips monitoring in day-neutral strawberries. In other crops, for example greenhouses, sticky cards are used for thrips monitoring. A pheromone (ThripPher – Biobest Biological Systems Inc.) is also available that attracts the Western flower thrips, and can be used in combination with sticky traps for monitoring.

Objective of Research: Compare the efficacy of different monitoring methods for thrips in strawberries. The long-term goal of this study is to find a more efficient and less costly alternative to flower tapping for thrips monitoring in strawberry.

Summary of Results: Three different monitoring methods were compared to flower tapping. These were: 1) yellow sticky card, 2) yellow sticky card + ThripPher, 3) blue sticky card + ThripPher. All three card-based monitoring methods performed as well as flower tapping in detecting thrips. The combination of yellow sticky cards and pheromone caught significantly more thrips than flower tapping. However in terms of cost, yellow sticky cards without pheromone is the cheapest alternative to flower tapping. Existing action thresholds for thrips in strawberries are based on flower tapping, thus the next step is to develop an action threshold based on this new method of monitoring. A correlation of yellow sticky card and flower tapping counts suggests that 50 thrips/card may be good ‘working’ threshold for 2010.

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Continuing research: Develop a field-wide protocol for thrips monitoring using yellow sticky cards, along with an action threshold based on yellow sticky cards. Contact: Renee Prasad Tel: 604-835-2871 ES Cropconsult Ltd. e-mail: renee@escrcop.com 6145 171A Street Surrey, BC V3S 5S1 Title 13: Control of tuber flea beetle (Epitrix tuberis Gentner) using spinosad-based organic insecticide Entrust 80W Author and Associates: Lena Syrovy, Heather Meberg, and Renee Prasad – ES Cropconsult Ltd, Vancouver, BC. Problem: Tuber flea beetle (TFB) causes significant economic damage to potato tubers in coastal BC. A monitoring protocol and economic threshold for timing sprays against adult TFB has been used successfully by potato growers in BC for twenty years. Conventional growers have several products in their tool box for this pest, but there are no tools for TFB control for organic production. Entrust 80W (spinosad 80%; Dow AgroSciences LLC) is registered for use in potatoes against Colorado potato beetle, and has shown some activity against TFB in previous trials (E.S. Cropconsult, unpublished data). In 2008, tuber damage by TFB larvae was reduced by more than 50% in plots treated with Entrust 80W (E. S. Cropconsult, unpublished data). However actual reduction in adult TFB populations by Entrust 80W and the residual activity of the product are unknown. Objective of Research: Evaluate efficacy of Entrust 80W for control of adult TFB and damage by TFB larvae. Summary of Methodology: A small plot study was conducted in a grower’s field with a high TFB population (Cloverdale, BC). Plots were one row wide and 2 m long. Adult tuber flea beetles were added to plots and row cover was used to contain beetles in plots. Row cover was used to contain beetles because in previous attempts to conduct this study in uncovered plots, in fields with high flea beetle populations, adult activity was very uneven among plots prior to the start of the trial. Flea beetles were added to plots and plots were covered prior to the sprays. The trial consisted of two treatments: 1) Entrust 80W, and 2) control (water). Each treatment was replicated twelve times and treatments were randomly assigned to plots. Entrust 80W was applied twice, at a rate of 75g Entrust/ha per application (for a maximum seasonal application of 150g/ha as per Entrust label). TFB adults were visually counted pre-spray, and 3, 5, and 7 days post-spray. Tubers were assessed for TFB larval damage at harvest by cutting away damage to determine grade: Canada No. 1 = < 5% of tuber cut away, Canada No. 2 = 5-10% of tuber cut away, cull = >10% of tuber cut away (CFIA method of cutting to remove defects). Summary of Results: TFB counts dramatically decreased following the two Entrust sprays, while they stayed constant or declined very slowly in control plots. Final counts (day 7) were fifteen times higher in control plots compared with those sprayed with Entrust. Dead beetles were observed in Entrust plots, but not in control plots. However, at harvest damage was overall very high and most tubers scored No. 2 grade or culls in both treatments. In previous work, higher rates of Entrust have been shown to reduce flea beetle damage at harvest.

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Continuing research: Covering plots with row cover allowed us to contain tuber flea beetle adults, however row cover probably also interfered with the breakdown and residual activity of Entrust. A protocol is needed to conduct the trial in open plots with consistent adult activity prior to the start of the trial. Data will be provided to BC Minor Use Coordinator and Dow AgroSciences for potential label expansion. Contact: Renee Prasad Tel: 604-835-2871 ES Cropconsult Ltd. e-mail: renee@escrop.com 6145 171A Street Surrey, BC, V3S 5S1

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2009 Alberta Research Report

Compiled by Héctor Cárcamo For the Western Committee of Crop Pests

Winnipeg, 16 Oct 2009

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lethbridge Research Centre

1. Title: Integration of technologies to manage wheat stem sawfly in durum and hard red spring wheat.

Author and Associates: Brian Beres and Héctor Cárcamo. Problem: The wheat stem sawfly continues to be an important insect pest in Alberta and Saskatchewan, and unlike the grasshopper, it cannot be controlled by pesticides. The entire value chain can be affected by wheat stem sawfly damage as severely infested wheat may have reduced milling properties and can be down-graded due to reduced volume density. More than 5 M hectares in Canada are at risk of infestation by the wheat stem sawfly. The geographic distribution of the wheat stem sawfly is large enough to disrupt supply of the high quality bread wheat and durum export markets. Using a susceptible variety exposes the producer to greater business risk as sawfly damage results in lower yields and grade reductions. These issues necessitate that we direct some of our research efforts in sawfly toward the development of sustainable production practices that reduce the risk of growing hollow stemmed varieties in areas prone to attack. Objective of Research:

1) Determine the impact of re-cropping infested stubble on the population dynamics of both the wheat stem sawfly and the natural enemies of the wheat stem sawfly. 2) Develop and assess harvest management strategies to enhance populations of natural enemies. 3) Determine the influence of nitrogen and seeding rate on pith expression in the culm of solid-stemmed wheat cultivars and sawfly damage.

Summary of Results: Field experiments were established at Coalhurst, Nobleford, Lethbridge, and Bow Island, AB. Solid and hollow-stemmed cultivars showed a positive yield response to increased seeding rates, however, we observed a reduction in pith expression at the higher seeding rates. Therefore, we recommend that producers do not exceed 300-350 seeds m-2 when growing a solid-stemmed cultivar. We do advocate higher seed rates for hollow-stemmed cultivars as previous studies have shown a reduction of cutting in hollow-stemmed wheat with increased plant populations. Continuing Research: Field work is now complete and preparation of PhD thesis will commence this fall. Contact: Brian Beres

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2. Title: A deployed Neural Net to predict the in-season tolerance of solid-stemmed wheat to wheat stem sawfly cutting.

Author and Associates: Brian Beres and Bernie Hill. Problem: The use of solid-stemmed cultivars is a critical component of an integrated crop management strategy to manage wheat stem sawfly (WSS). The mechanism of host plant resistance is the development of pith inside the culm of the wheat stem, thereby creating a solid stem and restricting movement and feeding of the larva. However, the expression of genes responsible for pith development is photoperiod sensitive, which can create inconsistent pith development. Objective of Research:

1) Proof of Concept. Using weather parameters and infestation data from the period 1949-1978 at Lethbridge, AB, create a Neural Net (NN) that improves the precision of the multiple regression model reported in Holmes, N. D., Can. Ent. 116:677-684 (1984). 2) Upon proof of the concept, update model with recent infestation and climatic data from all possible test locations in wheat stem sawfly distribution area.

Summary of Results: Proof of concept was realized as a deployed Neural Net was created that predicts the in-season tolerance level for solid-stemmed wheat from 6 rain-related inputs (days with precipitation and accumulated precipitation divided into 3 biweekly subsets for the period May 25 – July 5). The estimated R2 of 0.78 (average of five 20% cross-validation sets) is an improvement from the multiple regression models reported by Holmes (R2=0.55). The user-interface and NN code have been compiled into one simple-to-use 'exe' file. The exe allows manual entry of the 6 rain-related inputs allows the user to automatically select typical inputs for high and low %Stems Cut. This particular deployed NN (a 7-6-1 architecture) uses 1 transformation of PcpDays3, Pcp2 and Pcp3; and 2 transformations each of PcpDays2 and Pcp1. Sensitivity analysis produced the following relative ranking of the 6 inputs: Pcp3 2.5, PcpDays2 1.7, Pcp1 1.2, Pcp2 0.5, PcpDays3 0.2 and PcpDays1 0.0. The average absolute error of this deployed model (model shown all 28 records during development) is 2.1% Stems Cut over a predicted range of 6-89% Stems Cut.

Continuing Research: Objective 2 will commence this fall.

Contact: Brian Beres 3. Title: Ecology of the parasitoid Bracon cephi and its host the wheat stem sawfly (WSSF) in southern Alberta

Author and Associates: Héctor Cárcamo, Brian Beres, Tracy Larson, Xiuhua Wu

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Problem: Although the phenology (seasonal activity) of the WSSF is well documented, less has been reported on its natural enemy Bracon cephi. Improving our understanding of its phenology is necessary to develop management practices that will maximize its contributions as a biocontrol agent Objective of Research: To survey and document host/parasitoid ecological interactions including possible size selection, seasonal development and overall status of Bracon cephi populations in resistant and susceptible spring wheat cultivars. Summary of Results: Bracon cephi adults appear about the same time as its host, the wheat stem sawfly or even a few days earlier. The number caught in pan traps or by sweeping were always highest during the beginning of the sawfly flight, then decreased gradually to very low levels that coincided with the end of sawfly flight. A second peak in activity of the same overwintered generation was observed 2-3 weeks later but it was only about half the size of the initial population. In 2009 the new generation emerged very late, during the second week of September but sawfly larvae were also late in cutting wheat stems. A cage study to quantify effects of B. cephi on cutting and grain yield was started in 2009. Continuing Research: We plan to continue studying the biology of Bracon cephi with a focus on conservation biocontrol.

Contact: H. Cárcamo

4. Title: Phenology of lygus bugs and their nymphal parasitoids in southern Alberta.

Author and Associates: H. Cárcamo and Carolyn Herle

Problem: Lygus bugs are pest generalists attacking several valuable crops such as canola and alfalfa. So far the only management alternative available is the application of insecticides. Before a biocontrol agent can be considered for lygus bugs, it is necessary to study the biology of lygus and its native parasitoids in more detail. Objective of Research: To quantify the phenology of adult and juvenile lygus and parasitoids in various crops and non crop habitats in southern Alberta, including early spring weeds, alfalfa and non agricultural areas. Summary of Results:

In 2009 we included two commercial seed alfalfa sites near Vauxhall to supplement our alfalfa plot studies. Plant bugs were sampled weekly and a sub-sample was dissected to determine parasitism status. Results are not available at the time of writing this report. Continuing Research: This study is complete; future studies on the ecology of Peristenus species are planned to determine the role of plant host (alfalfa vs canola) on parasitoid-host interactions including an exotic species.

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Contact: Héctor A. Cárcamo 5. Title: Integrated pest management of the pea leaf weevil in Alberta.

Author and Associates: Héctor Cárcamo, Scott Meers, Ross McKenzie, Robert Blackshaw, Carolyn Herle, Meghan Vankosky, Ken Coles. Problem: The pea leaf weevil (Sitona lineatus L.) is a common pest of peas (Pissum sativum L) and faba beans (Vicia faba L.) in its native Europe and North Africa. In Alberta, it was first collected by Dr. R.J. Byers (Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada) in 1997 and localized damage was noticed sporadically in the early 2000’s in the county of Lethbridge and Taber. Outbreak levels throughout southern Alberta were experienced in 2006 when several thousands of acres of field peas were sprayed. In 2007 the Alberta and Saskatchewan Pulse Growers Commissions and the Alberta Crop Development Industry Fund funded a network of research collaborators from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Alberta Agriculture and the Southern Applied Research Association to address a number of management, and basic and applied ecology questions on this insect. Objectives of Research:

1) Develop economic thresholds for pea leaf weevils in peas and determine interactions with soil nitrogen levels 2) Determine effect of seeding date and insecticide timing at various crop stages on plant damage and crop yield 3) Determine phenology of the pea leaf weevil, including egg laying, larval stages and adult activity

Summary of Results: Field experiments at Lethbridge and Vauxhall in 2007 to 2009 suggest lower foliage damage during earlier growth stages in seedlings with insecticide-coated seed but similar damage at later stages and no differences between nitrogen treatments. Damage to nodules was slightly lower in the insecticide treatment than the untreated plots; also and the number of “pink” nodules was higher. In a cage field cage study in 2008, we observed a significant regression of nodule damage on weevil density in the low nitrogen plots only. Data for the caged experiment in 2009 is currently being analyzed. An endemic potential predator of pea leaf weevil eggs has been identified using a no-choice feeding experiment. Bembidion quadrimaculatum L., a small carabid ground beetle, removed 94 to 98% of pea leaf weevil eggs from Petri dishes. Large ground beetle species, such as Pterostichus melanarius did not consume significant numbers of eggs in this test. A greenhouse assay showed reduced foliage feeding in seedlings with seed treated with thiometoxam and delayed egg laying. Continuing Research: Data collection for this project is complete and no further experiments are planned with this insect for now.

Contact: Héctor Cárcamo

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6. Title: Phenology and parasitism of the cereal leaf beetle in Alberta

Author and Associates: Héctor Cárcamo, Lloyd Dosdall, Tracy Larson. Problem: The cereal leaf beetle (Oulema melanopus) is a Eurasian chrysomelid, considered a serious pest of cereals, that was reported in NE North America in 1962 and has spread to most western states, except California. It was found in Alberta in 2005 near Lethbridge.

Objective of Research: to assess the feasibility of establishing a cereal nursery to study population dynamics of cereal leaf beetle and its biocontrol near Lethbridge

Summary of Results: Cereal leaf beetle larvae were rare in the nursery in 2009 but

common at other winter wheat sites in the region. Levels of parasitism around Lethbridge have increased steadily from 9 % in 2007, 18% in 2008 to 33 % in 2009. A number of parasitized larvae from Lethbridge were shipped to the Swan River valley in north west Manitoba where the cereal leaf beetle has recently invaded (according to Ryan Immerkar who reported the pest, the invasion extends into Saskatchewan near Togo).

Continuing Research: This research will continue in collaboration with a PhD student hired by Dr. Dosdall.

Contact: Héctor Cárcamo

Olds College

Olds 7. Title: Survey of Aphodiine Beetles in Turfgrass.

Author and Associates: Ken Fry (OC), Jim Ross (PTRC) Problem: Crows and raccoons are tearing up turfgrass in selected sports fields and golf courses in Alberta in search of Aphodiine larvae. The destructive nature of their foraging reduces the safety or playability of the turfgrass. Objective of Research: We propose to survey selected areas of the Province of Alberta for Aphodiine beetles to determine species present and phenology and density of populations in support of developing an integrated pest management plan for vertebrates disturbing turfgrass. Summary of Results: 2008 was the first season of preliminary surveys. Species collected include Aphodius fimetarius and A. pinguellus. Adult beetles were recovered from 8

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locations throughout the summer. In 2009, informal surveys were continued with A. fimetarius and A pinguellus collected most commonly. Continuing Research: Funding for this project is being sought to expand the intensity of sampling and to develop thresholds for managing Aphodiine populations. Contact: Ken Fry

8. Title: Biology and Distribution of an Alien Invasive Species new to Alberta, the Lily Leaf Beetle, Lilioceris lilii (Scopoli)

Author and Associates: Ken Fry (OC) Problem: The alien invasive species, Lilioceris lilii, was first detected in North America in Montreal in 1943 (LeSage 1983) but has since spread to Ontario (Bouchard et al. 2008) and the Maritimes (Majka & LeSage 2008). This beetle was reported from cultivated lilies in Airdrie, Alberta in 2006 (unpubl. res.). Both cultivated and native species of Lilium are threatened by this pest. Objective of Research: The objective of this project is to determine the geographic distribution, phenology, and host range of the Lily Leaf Beetle in Alberta. Summary of Results: Several sites in central and southern Alberta were visited to collect the beetle. All major lily growers and lily organizations have been contacted and the project advertised to horticultural and gardening societies. Reports of beetle infestations have been logged and verified. A geospatial database has been developed to track the distribution and spread of the beetle in Alberta. Rearing of the beetle to determine life history characteristics is on-going. The beetle’s distribution is limited to as far north as Olds and as far south as Okotoks. Continuing Research: Dependant upon continuing funding form AACTI, the survey and life history work will continue in 2010. Contact: Ken Fry

9. Title: Responses of the Specialist Biological Control Agent, Aleochara bilineata, to Vegetational Diversity in Canola Agroecosystems Author and Associates: Jim S. Broatch, Lloyd M. Dosdall, John T. O’Donovan, K. Neil Harker, and George W. Clayton. Problem: Root flies or root maggots (Delia spp., Diptera: Anthomyiidae) are chronic and serious pests of canola in western Canada, particularly in vast areas of cropland throughout northern and central Alberta and in the Aspen Parkland Ecoregion of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Damage is caused by larvae feeding on canola taproots, and this can lead to

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reductions in yield and host plant vigor. The predator-parasitoid Aleochara bilineata Gyllenhal (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) is the dominant natural enemy of root maggots in canola and other brassicaceous crops in western Canada. Increasing plant biodiversity in agroecosystems has the potential to reduce the abundance and economic damage of herbivore pests through a number of different mechanisms. The diversity of microhabitats that weeds create has the potential to enhance biological pest control. Objective of Research: The influence of weeds on populations of root maggot natural enemies, such as A. bilineata, has never been investigated previously in canola agroecoystems. The objective of our study was to vary herbicide application rates in herbicide-tolerant canola to manipulate weed populations, and so test the hypothesis that A. bilineata activity density increases with greater vegetational heterogeneity.

Summary of Results: We manipulated weed populations in both species of canola, Brassica rapa L. and Brassica napus L., to investigate responses of adults of Aleochara bilineata Gyllenhal (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), an important natural enemy of root maggots (Delia spp., Diptera: Anthomyiidae). Activity density of A. bilineata increased as monocotyledonous weed biomass declined. Significant preferences between canola species were observed, with A. bilineata associated most frequently with B. rapa compared with B. napus. Our research suggests that improved management of root maggot infestations in canola through enhancement of populations of the A. bilineata predator-parasitoid could be accomplished by reducing weed infestations; however, such recommendations should consider other predators in the system and the role of weeds in reducing root maggot oviposition and damage.

Continuing Research: Complete. Biological Control (2009), doi:10.1016/j.biocontrol. 2009.08.009 Contact: Jim Broatch

University of Alberta Edmonton

10. Title: Surveys for the Distribution and Abundance of Cereal Leaf Beetle in Southern Alberta Author and Associates: L. Dosdall, H. Cárcamo, S. Meers, O. Olfert, S. Hartley Problem: The cereal leaf beetle is an alien, invasive insect pest native to Europe that was first discovered in Alberta in 2005. It apparently invaded from Montana, and attacks wheat, barley, oats, rye, and corn. In the U.S.A. crop losses without control measures have been documented at 55% in spring wheat, 23% in winter wheat, and 75% in oats and barley. Application of the CLIMEX model to the cereal leaf beetle invasion predicted that it will

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eventually infest the entire region of cereal production throughout the prairies and parkland of western Canada. American scientists familiar with this pest predict that our farmers will need to control the beetle with insecticide within 2-3 years. Objective of Research: The objectives of the project are to determine the spatial distribution and relative abundance of the cereal leaf beetle throughout southern Alberta; to determine the life history of the cereal leaf beetle under western Canadian cropping conditions, especially its overwintering biology, the timing of its invasion of crops, and factors affecting its population dynamics; and to monitor cereal leaf beetle populations for the presence of parasite species that may have invaded along with the pest, and for native parasite species that switch from their normal hosts to attack it. Summary of Results: In 2009, approximately 120 cereal fields were surveyed throughout southern Alberta, within a geographical area extending from Red Deer south to the U.S.A. border, east to the Saskatchewan border, and west to the Rocky Mountains. Cereal leaf beetle adults and larvae were widespread throughout southern Alberta, with infested fields found near Lethbridge, Pincher Creek, Bow Island, Foremost, Vulcan, High River, and Medicine Hat. Larval and adult feeding damage were evident in several field, especially near Lethbridge, Taber, and Burdette. However, damage was minor in all cases, and was not considered sufficient to cause economic damage. Larval specimens from most sites were returned to the laboratory and either dissected to determine the incidence of parasitism, or larvae were reared for parasitoids. As in previous years, parasitized larvae were present, with specimens appearing to be Tetrastichus julis. However, unlike 2008, parasitized larvae were found much further east than previously. Continuing Research: This research is funded by the Western Grains Research Foundation and the Alberta Crop Industry Fund, and will continue in 2010.. Contact: Lloyd Dosdall 11. Title: Agronomic Practices for Enhancing Natural Enemy Populations of Root Maggots Author and Associates: L. Dosdall, N. Harker, J. O’Donovan, G. Clayton, J. Hummel, R. Subramaniam Problem: The predator-parasitoid rove beetle, Aleochara bilineata, occurs commonly in canola crops, but we have very limited understanding of strategies that can enhance its effectiveness. This insect is of considerable interest in canola production because adults are predators, consuming large quantities of root maggot eggs. The beetle is also a parasitoid: soon after hatching, the first-instar larva of A. bilineata locates a root maggot puparium, bores through the puparial wall, and attaches itself ectoparasitically to the developing fly

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within. Aleochara bilineata remains inactive during winter, but in spring it consumes tissues of its host, eventually killing it. In addition, carabid beetles can consume large numbers of root maggot eggs, and they can also prey upon root maggot larvae. Our goal of increasing natural levels of mortality of pests can enable growers to avoid or minimize insecticide use. Objective of Research: The overall goal of the proposed project is to identify agronomic practices that can be used by farmers to increase the effectiveness of natural enemies of insect pests. It is anticipated that ultimately this research will enhance integrated crop management and make canola production more sustainable. The project focuses on root maggots and their main natural enemy, A. bilineata. The study has investigated the integrated effects of conventional versus zero tillage, seeding rate, and row spacing on the abundance of A. bilineata in canola. Summary of Results: Studies were conducted in Lacombe and Vegreville over four site-years using two tillage regimes, three seeding rates and three row spacings. Pitfall trap captures were made of beetles in each research plot and root maggot infestations were assessed through egg counts and root damage ratings. At the end of the season, all plots were harvested to determine yields per plot. Preliminary results indicate that the activity density of A. bilineata is greatest in conventionally tilled plots, but that seeding rate or row spacing had no significant effects on A. bilineata trap captures. Parasitism rates of root maggot puparia by A. bilineata were greatest in canola grown under conventional tillage. Continuing Research: This three-year study is now in its final year, with a final report to be completed by March 2010. Contact: Lloyd Dosdall 12. Title: Determining Resistance Mechanisms in Cabbage Seedpod Weevil-Resistant Canola Genotypes Author and Associates: L. Dosdall, J. Tansey, L. Kott, S. Noble, A. Keddie Problem: The cabbage seedpod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus) is an important pest of brassicaceous oilseed crops, especially canola, and currently application of foliar insecticide is the only method available for its control. White mustard, Sinapis alba L., is resistant to the cabbage seedpod weevil and was used as a potential source of resistance for Brassica napus. Introgression of S. alba x B. napus produced several accessions resistant to C. obstrictus feeding and oviposition. Objective of Research: We investigated potential mechanisms of this resistance, including assessing differences in visual and olfactory cues among resistant and susceptible genotypes, and antixenosis and antibiosis. Deployment strategies for resistant germplasm were assessed to evaluate incorporation of susceptible refugia to promote long-term durability of resistance traits.

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Summary of Results: The C. obstrictus visual system was interpreted to be trichromatic, incorporating receptors with response maxima near 350, 450, and 550 nm. Modelling indicated that UV light alone is repellent but the interaction of yellow and UV light is attractive to a threshold reflectance level of UV. Differences in yellow and UV reflectance among host plant flowers influenced host selection in C. obstrictus. Differential attraction to was found to the odors of S. alba and B. napus and among resistant and susceptible accessions. Inferences of the identities of glucosinolates found in varying amounts among susceptible and resistant genotypes suggested that 2-phenylethyl glucosinolate influenced attractiveness. Differences were found in adult feeding and oviposition preferences among resistant and susceptible genotypes. The compound, 1-methoxy-3-indolylmethyl glucosinolate, was implicated as contributing to antixenosis and antibiosis resistance. Continuing Research: This three-year study comprised the doctoral thesis research of James Tansey, and the project was recently completed. Contact: Lloyd Dosdall 13. Title: The Role of Plant Quality in the Distribution Dynamics of the Cabbage Seedpod Weevil Author and Associates: L. Dosdall, A. Blake, H. Cárcamo, A. Keddie Problem: The cabbage seedpod weevil damages canola crops through adult feeding on flower buds, feeding of larvae on seeds within pods, and direct feeding on maturing seeds through the pod walls by newly emerged adults. Larval exit holes may also provide an entry point for plant pathogens, and C. obstrictus-infested pods are predisposed to premature shattering. Field populations of both adults and larvae of the cabbage seedpod weevil are known to be aggregated in their distributions, but the causal mechanism for this clustering is not understood. Objective of Research: We investigated the hypothesis that spatial distributions of C. obstrictus adults, larvae and their parasitoids were directly or indirectly related to host plant quality as indicated by leaf tissue nutrient contents. These insect populations were sampled in commercial fields of B. napus near Lethbridge, Alberta. Leaf samples were collected from plants in each plot and analyzed for nutrient contents. Spatial patterns and associations in the collected variables were analyzed using Spatial Analysis by Distance IndicEs (SADIE) software. Summary of Results: We observed significant spatial associations among C. obstrictus adults, larvae, and parasitoids. The distributions of C. obstrictus adults and larvae were correlated with several plant nutrients most notably nitrogen and sulfur. Evidence was found for a possible nitrogen–sulfur interaction where ovipositing females appeared to prefer plants with high levels of sulfur and low levels of nitrogen. Spatial tracking of C. obstrictus larvae by its parasitoids was evident in only one field, and appeared related to comparatively low

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parasitoid populations in two of the three fields. The associations between C. obstrictus and plant nutrients may have possible applications in fertility management, trap cropping and precision insecticide application technology. Continuing Research: This study comprises the M.Sc. thesis research of Adam Blake, and the project will be completed in 2010. Contact: Lloyd Dosdall

14. Title: Development of a semiochemical monitoring and detection system for the diamondback moth on canola Author and Associates: M. Evenden, L. Dosdall, S. Meers, K. Fry, M. Hartman and G. Gries. Graduate student: Chris Miluch.

Problem: In the Canadian prairies, the diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella, is considered a serious pest of canola. Infestation of DBM in the Canadian prairies is due primarily to migration of adult moths on wind currents from the south each spring. Pheromone-baited traps can be used to monitor and detect male DBM and a pheromone-trapping network is in place in the prairie provinces. However, female-baited traps routinely capture more male moths than synthetic traps indicating that key chemical constituents may be missing from the lures currently used. Further, the significance of male moth capture to population densities has not been determined for DBM on canola.

Objective of Research: The overall objective of this research was to develop a semiochemical-based monitoring system for diamondback moth on canola in western Canada. This research was designed to establish a system to help producers determine the spatial and temporal distribution of diamondback moth and predict population densities of the damaging larval stage. The original proposal was broken down into two phases of research: 1. Pheromone-based monitoring of diamondback moth males; and 2. Semiochemical-based monitoring of diamondback moth females and natural enemies. The majority of our research findings fall under the Phase I category, the scope of which has been greatly expanded since our initial application. There are limited findings in Phase 2 because we were unable to attract a significant number of female diamondback moths to semiochemicals. This research is now complete and our results come with specific recommendations to canola producers and commercial producers of pheromone lures as well as recommended avenues of future research. Summary of Results (work done): Phase 1: Pheromone-based monitoring of diamondback moth males Two season-long, pheromone-based monitoring experiments were conducted at sites located in all major canola-growing regions of Alberta to evaluate five different commercially available pheromone lures. Traps baited with lures from APT (now APTIV) and PheroTech (now ConTech) consistently captured the greatest number of male diamondback moths. Attractiveness of lures was inversely related to pheromone release rate as determined in laboratory studies. Based on these, and other trapping experiments that directly compared the APT and PheroTech

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lures, it is recommended that the Prairie Pheromone Monitoring Network continue to use the PheroTech lures. Three experiments tested the longevity of pheromone lures under field conditions. All three experiments demonstrated that older lures were more attractive than fresh lures. It is therefore recommended that the Prairie Pheromone Monitoring Network change the lure rotation schedule from the current three-week rotation to a six-week rotation. This will reduce the overall cost of the monitoring system. Grey rubber septa lures baited with the commercially-available PheroTech blend were more attractive to male diamondback moths than red septa lures baited with the same blend. Laboratory studies indicated that the increased attractiveness of the grey lures may be the result of a difference in the ratio of the released components from the two lure types. It is therefore recommended that PheroTech (now ConTech) dispense pheromone into grey rather than the red lures that are currently sold. However, the current pheromone dose used in the commercial PheroTech lures (100 µg) was the most attractive of several doses tested in both lure types and should be retained in the commercially-available lures. A season-long experiment tested the attractiveness of differently positioned traps baited with PheroTech lures. Traps positioned at 50 cm above ground level and those positioned at canopy height throughout the season caught a similar number of diamondback moths which was greater (but not significantly so) than the number captured in traps positioned at 2 m above the ground. Therefore we suggest that the Prairie Pheromone Monitoring Network change the currently recommended trap position of 2 m to 50 cm above the ground. Trap catch in traps baited with the commercially-available PheroTech lures was significantly related to densities of immatures sampled at the same sites when diamondback moth densities were moderate but not when they were low. This indicates that pheromone traps can be used to predict subsequent larval population densities but more research is required to establish an economic threshold based on pheromone-based trap capture. Although APT and PheroTech lures were consistently the most attractive commercially-available pheromone lures tested, neither was as attractive as calling virgin female diamondback moths. Our laboratory studies demonstrated that male diamondback moths detected the three previously identified pheromone components from female pheromone gland extracts. However, our field trapping studies demonstrated that lures releasing pheromone blends with the acetate as the main component were more attractive than lures releasing pheromone blends with the aldehyde as the main component. Interestingly, all of the commercial lures we tested release the less attractive blends with the aldehyde as the main component. We therefore recommend that future research is warranted to commercialize of a new pheromone lure releasing a new pheromone blend in collaboration with ConTech. Phase 2. Semiochemical-based monitoring of diamondback moth females and natural enemies In three field experiments we incorporated host cues into the pheromone-baited traps in an effort to enhance male response to traps and to attract females and natural enemies to traps. We tested the effect of trap colour (yellow vs. white) and the incorporation of a greenleaf volatile, Z3-hexenyl acetate, into pheromone lures. This greenleaf volatile was chosen as it has previously been shown to enhance male diamondback moth response to pheromone and it is not as toxic of some of the crucifer-specific compounds that are implicated in host-finding behavior in this species. However, the addition of host cues had no effect on the attractiveness of traps to male moths and did not result in the attraction of a significant number of females or natural enemies to

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traps. These cues were tested at two times in the field season when competing cues from the crop would differ (pre-bloom and bloom). The addition of the greenleaf volatile to the pheromone blend did not increase the attractiveness of the pheromone to male diamondback moths at any of the doses tested. As a result of these conclusive findings, we did not further pursue the development of a semiochemical-based lure targeting female diamondback moths. The findings of this study have provided several easy to implement recommendations to improve the efficacy of the pheromone-based monitoring system currently used to monitor diamondback moth activity in the prairie provinces. Our findings also demonstrate that pheromone-based monitoring is related to infestation levels, at least at moderate population densities. Therefore, pheromone-based monitoring should be encouraged and should be followed by sampling of immature stages. Further, we have made several recommendations to improve the pheromone formulation that may result in the development of a more attractive, commercially-available lure through future research and collaboration with ConTech. Continuing Research: Complete. Contact: Maya Evenden

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Contact Information

AGRICULTURE AND AGRI-FOOD CANADA Lethbridge Research Centre

BERES, Brian. M.Sc. Lethbridge Research Centre P.O. Box 3000 Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4B1 Tel. 403-317-2251 Fax. 403-382-3156 E-mail: brian.beres@agr.gc.ca

Lethbridge Research Centre CÁRCAMO, Héctor, Ph.D. Lethbridge Research Centre P.O. Box 3000 Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4B1 Tel. 403-317-2247 Fax. 403-382-3156 E-mail: hector.carcamo@agr.gc.ca

ALBERTA AGRICULTURE and FOOD Pest Surveillance Branch

BROATCH, Jim, Ph.D. Insect Pest Management Specialist 6000 C&E Trail Lacombe, Alberta T4L 1W1 Tel (403) 782 8573; Cell (403)877-4687 E-mail: jim.broatch@gov.ab.ca

UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA Department of Biological Sciences

EVENDEN, Maya L., Ph.D. CW405 Biological Sciences Building University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9 Tel. 780-492-1873 Fax. 780-492-7150 E-mail : mevenden@ualberta.ca

Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science DOSDALL, Lloyd M., Ph.D. 4-10 Agriculture / Forestry Centre University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2P5 Tel. 780-492-6893 Fax. 780-492-4265 E-mail: lloyd.dosdall@ualberta.ca

OLDS COLLEGE

Olds FRY, Ken, Ph.D. Instructor 4500, 50th St Olds T4H 1R6 Tel (403) 556 8261; Fax (403) 556 4713 Email: kfry@oldscollege.ca

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2009 Saskatchewan Research Report Compiled by Chrystel Olivier, AAFC-Saskatoon

SASKATCHEWAN ALFALFA SEED PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

Title: Research on parasitoids and diseases in Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Author: D.W. Goerzen Problem: The alfalfa leafcutting bee, Megachile rotundata, is an important pollinator of alfalfa for seed production in western Canada. Infestations of the chalcid parasitoid Pteromalus venustus are currently a problem in some alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Another factor which may limit alfalfa leafcutting bee production is the occurrence of chalkbrood disease, Ascosphaera aggregata. Objective of Research: This research project is designed to evaluate parasitoid and disease levels in Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations, and to develop management strategies which will assist alfalfa seed producers in maintaining high quality alfalfa leafcutting bee populations in order to enhance alfalfa seed production and increase the value of the bees in export markets. Summary of Results: Occurrence of the chalcid parasitoid, P. venustus, was evaluated in the 2008 - 2009 winter survey of Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. The parasitoid was detected in 0.85 % (range 0.00 - 9.26 % / sd 1.35 %) of bee cells analysed from individual samples submitted by Saskatchewan alfalfa seed producers (n = 108). P. venustus was present in 82.4 % of alfalfa leafcutting bee populations surveyed. Chalcid parasitoids have traditionally been controlled during the spring alfalfa leafcutting bee incubation period with dichlorvos-impregnated resin strips; however, dichlorvos has been implicated in alfalfa leafcutting bee mortality and this compound is also among the organophosphate insecticides under ongoing review by the PMRA and the EPA. For these reasons, parasitoid control research has been undertaken with alternative compounds including pyrethrin aerosol formulations. Field-scale experiments involving a comparison of the efficacy of pyrethrin aerosol formulation KN418 with the efficacy of dichlorvos resin strips for control of chalcid parasitoids have demonstrated that use of pyrethrin aerosol resulted in low or undetectable levels of alfalfa leafcutting bee cell re-parasitism (mean 0.09 %) and undetectable levels of alfalfa leafcutting bee pupal mortality due to parasitoid stinging. Use of dichlorvos resin strips in this series of

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experiments resulted in levels of alfalfa leafcutting bee cell re-parasitism as high as 0.53 %, combined with a mean alfalfa leafcutting bee pupal mortality level of 1.13 % due to parasitoid stinging, and a mean alfalfa leafcutting bee pupal mortality level of 0.92 % due to dichlorvos exposure. Further research is currently being undertaken to identify and evaluate additional alternative compounds which might be efficacious for control of the chalcid parasitoid, P. venustus, in M. rotundata populations. Occurrence of chalkbrood disease (A. aggregata) was also evaluated in the 2008 - 2009 winter survey of Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. The disease was present at an extremely low level in bee cells analysed from samples submitted by Saskatchewan alfalfa seed producers (n = 108), with no occurrence of the sporulating form of chalkbrood disease documented and with 0.003 % of the non-sporulating form of chalkbrood disease noted overall (i.e. 2 non-sporulating chalkbrood cadavers in ca 70,000 alfalfa leafcutting bee cells evaluated). Paraformaldehyde fumigation treatment and bleach dipping treatment of alfalfa leafcutting bee nest material / alfalfa leafcutting bee cells are two methods which will provide effective control of a broad range of microflora, including Ascosphaera spp., occurring in alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Other compounds have been evaluated for their efficacy in control of microflora in alfalfa leafcutting bee nest material. These disinfectant compounds (IosanTM, ModyneTM, ProfilmTM, and Ster-BacTM) are currently registered for use in general agricultural applications including hard surface decontamination. Research has indicated that spray application of these compounds at low rates on alfalfa leafcutting bee nest material surfaces prior to field deployment will reduce build-up of microflora in alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Incubation tests of alfalfa leafcutting bee prepupae within cells harvested from nest material treated with these disinfectant compounds have indicated no adverse affects in the progeny of adult bees nesting in the treated material. Continuing Research: Research to monitor parasitoid and disease levels in Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations, and to develop management strategies which will assist alfalfa seed producers in controlling these problems, is ongoing. Contact: D.W Goerzen Saskatchewan Alfalfa Seed Producers Association 127 E - 116 Research Drive Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R3 e-mail: goerzenw@innovationplace.com

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AGRICULTURE AND AGRI-FOOD CANADA SASKATOON RESEARCH CENTER

1. Title: Non-native insects in agriculture: strategies to manage the economic and environmental impact of wheat midge, Sitodiplosis mosellana, in Saskatchewan. 2009. . Biological Invasions 11: 127-133 Author and Associates: O. Olfert, R.H. Elliott, S.Hartley. Problem: Wheat midge, Sitodiplosis mosellana, was accidentally introduced into North America in the 1800s. It is now a chronic pest of wheat in the northern Great Plains, including the Canadian prairies and is widely distributed in many parts of the world where wheat production occurs, especially between the 42nd and 62nd parallels . In western Canada, S. mosellana was first reported in Manitoba but was not considered to be a pest until the 1950s. The first major outbreak of wheat midge in Saskatchewan was recorded in 1983 causing an estimated loss in yield of $30 million that year. As with many non-native agricultural insect pests, the ecological impact of S. mosellana was more associated with efforts to control infestations using chemical insecticides than with impacts that this non-native insect pest had on native plant species and habitat. In the case of S. mosellana, insecticidal sprays were applied to 300,000–500,000 ha of wheat annually to minimize crop damage during a major outbreak in the 1990s. Objective of Research: To document the increasing pest status of a non-native, agricultural insect pest, and the positive influence that its natural enemy (M. penetrans) and management technologies have had on mitigating the potential economic and environmental impact of wheat midge. Summary of Results: Sitodiplosis mosellana, was first detected as early as 1901 in western Canada. The first major outbreak in Saskatchewan was recorded in 1983. Today wheat midge infests much of the wheat-growing area of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and North Dakota (USA), and has begun to invade Alberta and Montana (USA). In 1984, Saskatchewan wheat midge populations were found to be parasitized by the egg-larval parasitoid, Macroglenes penetrans (Kirby) (Hymenoptera). Through the successful implementation of conservation techniques, this parasitoid now controls an average of 31.5% of the wheat midge across Saskatchewan. Estimated value of the parasitoid, due to reduction in insecticide costs in Saskatchewan alone, was estimated to be in excess of $248.3 million in the 1990s. The environmental benefits of not having to apply this amount of chemical insecticide are a bonus. To minimize the economic and ecological impact of S. mosellana today, wheat producers in western Canada have access to one of the most comprehensive management programs of any insect pest of field crops. Continuing Research: Future plans are to continue to assess population density & distribution of both the pest and parasitoid over time. The data will be used to develop bio-climatic models of the two species and to assess the potential impact of climate change on this relationship

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### 2. Title: Modelling the Ecology of Grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae) in Grasslands of Western Canada. Multifunctional Grasslands in a Changing World Volume II: 805-806. Author and Associates: Owen Olfert and Ross Weiss Problem: Of the more than 90 known grasshopper species, Melanoplus sanguinipes, M. bivittatus, M. packardii, Camnula pellucida have been largely responsible for crop and vegetative losses in Canada. Fluctuations in grasshopper population density occur over broad geographical areas in response to weather. Localized infestations are often associated with a prolonged period of consecutive seasons with increasingly warm temperatures over successive years when reproduction and survival are optimum Objectives of Research: Bio-climate modelling lends itself well to developing a better understanding of grasshopper ecology. This research describes the impact of weather/climate on oviposition and embryonic development in predicting grasshopper phenology and abundance (i.e. risk). Summary of Results: Focussing on sites where meteorological and grasshopper population and egg data existed, embryonic development was modelled for in relation to the impact on grasshopper phenology and abundance over the period 1930-2003 In western Canada, fluctuations in grasshopper population density occur over broad geographical areas in response to weather. Melanoplus sanguinipes prefer warm, dry weather conditions, as a result, grasshopper infestations are often associated with a prolonged period of consecutive seasons with increasing temperatures. Model results showed that favourable weather conditions, up to five years prior to initial outbreaks, were associated with pest populations. Model output suggested that changes in grasshopper density were a response to previous meteorological events References: Olfert, O. and Weiss, R.M. 2006. Bio-climatic model of Melanoplus sanguinipes (Fabricius) (Orthoptera: Acrididae) populations in Canada and the potential impacts of climate change. Journal of Orthoptera Research 15: 65-77 Contact: Name Owen Olfert Agency AAFC-Saskatoon Mailing address: 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0X2

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### 3. Title: Monitoring canola crops across the Prairies for species distribution of flea beetles. Author and Associates: Julie Soroka, with help from Jaime Walker, Lee Poppy, AAFC; Erin Brock, John Mayko, Doug Moisey, Matthew Stanford, Tiffany Gutzke Martinka, Jim Bessel, and Derwyn Hammond, CCC; Jason Casselman, Laheen Mckenzie, Neil McDonald, Bowden Sych, and Ryan Winters, Cargill; Mike Dolinski, AgriTrends; Dan Cole, SARA; Jim Broach, Shelley Barkley, AAFRD: Lloyd Dosdall, U of Alberta; Scott Hartley, SAF; Stephanie Jersak, Amy Horan, Miles Hodge and John Gavloski, MAFRI; with funding from Canola Council of Canada and ACPC, SaskCanola, and MCGA. Problem: In previous studies in the laboratory, striped flea beetles were found to have decreased mortality and increased feeding levels compared with crucifer flea beetles feeding on canola treated with neonicotinoid seed treatments. A field was conducted to validate this finding. Objective of Research: To establish base lines of flea beetle species distributions in canola fields across the prairies. Summary of Results: Thirty-eight locations were sampled for flea beetles in 2009 using yellow sticky traps. In 2009 the proportion of striped flea beetles continued to increase over crucifer flea beetles in many locations surveyed. Further, other flea beetle species were found that were not previously seen or were very infrequently recorded on yellow sticky traps in canola fields in the past. Continuing Research: This project will continue for two more years. Anyone interested in placing and monitoring traps in their area are asked to contact Julie Soroka.

### 4. Title: Determining the effects of relay cropping cruciferous vegetables with a non-cruciferous crop for management of root maggots, Delia spp. Author and Associates: Julie Soroka, AAFC Saskatoon, Peggy Dixon, AAFC St. John’s, NL. Problem: Root maggots are a serious pest of cruciferous vegetables wherever they are grown. Objective of Research: To determine if relay cropping, that is, planting a resistant, quickly maturing crop, lettuce, in between rows of a susceptible crop- cauliflower, rutabaga, or canola- will decrease maggot damage to the cauliflower. Summary of Results: Unlike last year’s results, where greater numbers of eggs were laid on plants of solid-planted cauliflower than on cauliflower interspersed with lettuce, there was little apparent difference in the number of Delia eggs laid on cauliflower or rutabaga that was either solid seeded or interspersed with one or two rows of lettuce. Cauliflower head quality was

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compromised by the appearance of cabbage butterfly Pieris rapae larvae, but most cauliflower heads and transplanted rutabaga roots were marketable. Many of the direct-seeded rutabaga roots were unmarketable due to severe root maggot feeding, regardless of the intercrop treatment. Continuing Research: This is the final year of research on this project.

### 5. Title: Insect injury to camelina Author: Julie Soroka and Ginette Sèguin-Swartz AAFC Saskatoon; funded by CFIA Problem: Camelina is a crop with many potential uses. Its susceptibility to insect pests common to canola in the prairies is not fully understood. Objective of Research: The objective of the experiment was to determine feeding levels of commonly occurring insect pests on camelina as compared to standard canola varieties in the laboratory and in the field. Summary of Results: This year 28 lines of Camelina sativa and two Brassica napus cultivars were evaluated in field trials for damage from flea beetles (Phyllotreta app.) and root maggots (Delia spp). Flea beetle damage to all excessions of camelina was extremely low compared to that on the canola lines. Root maggot damage to both plant species was light. Laboratory trials evaluating feeding preferences of bertha armyworm and diamondback moth for lines of camelina and B. napus will be conducted this winter. Continuing Research: This is the final year for this project. For all projects Contact: Name: Julie Soroka Agency: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon Research Centre Mailing address: 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0X2 E-mail: sorokaj@agr.gc.ca ###

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6. Title: Phytoplasma survey in grapevines and leafhoppers sampled in BC and ON vineyards. Authors and associates: C. Olivier (AAFC-Saskatoon), T. Lowery (AAFC-Summerland) and L. Stobbs (AAFC-Vineland). Problem: Canadian nurseries are importing most of the vines necessary for maintaining and improving the Canadian grapevine industry. Phytoplasma diseases have been detected in BC, ON and QC vineyards. Vectors are unknown.

Objective of the research: Detect and identify phytoplasma present in plant and insect samples taken from Canadian grapevine-growing areas of BC and ON, using molecular biology. Summary of results: Grapevine plants and leafhoppers were sampled in ON, QC and BC commercial vineyards since 2006. Three strains of phytoplasma were found in Canadian vineyards (Bois noir, X-disease and Aster yellows), AY incidence ranging from 1 to 9%, depending on the province. 12 species of leafhoppers were identified as potential vectors. Continuing research: the project ended in March 2009). Contact: Chrystel Olivier, AAFC-Saskatoon Research Centre, 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0X2, Canada. Chrystel.olivier@agr.gc.ca ### 7. Title: Phytoplasma diseases in Camelina sativa Author and associates: C. Olivier and G. Seguin-Swartz; funding by CFIA Problem: Camelina sativa is very susceptible to Aster yellow (AY) disease. During experimental trials at the AAFC-farm in Saskatoon in 2007 and 2008, disease incidence ranging from 9 to 18% were observed. AY cause yield reduction. Objective of the research: Detection and identification of the phytoplasma strains present in infected Camelina sativa, and of the leafhopper species that are potential vectors of phytoplasma. Summary of results: This year, several lines of Camelina sativa were seeded at the AAFC Saskatoon Farm. Despite very low AY incidence in most crops, an average of 5% of C. sativa was infected and difference in susceptibility were found between the lines. Phytoplasma strains 16SrI-A and -B were found and insects were trapped with sticky traps and sweeping nets. Insects will be identified and tested for the presence of phytoplasma DNA during this winter. Continuing research: This project will end in March 2010.

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Contact:Chrystel Olivier, AAFC-Saskatoon Research Centre, 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0X2, Canada. Chrystel.olivier@agr.gc.ca ### 8. Title: Identification of symbiont organisms in leafhopper vectors of phytoplasma Author and associates: C. Olivier, K. Floate (AAFC-Lethbridge) and Steve Perlman (U of Victoria). Problem: Phytoplasma are transmitted by phloem-feeders, mostly leafhopper, and are very difficult to control. As no chemical is registered to control the pathogen directly, phytoplasma disease controls are usually done by controlling the vector population with insecticides. One new avenue of research is to study the symbiont organisms that are associated with leafhopper, in order to find new control methods targeting the symbionts. Summary of results: Leafhopper species were trapped with sweeping nets in vineyards in BC, QC and ON, as well as in canola and cereal crops in SK. PCR tests were used to identify symbiont species. Wolbachia and Arsenophonus species were found in most leafhoppers species. The percentage of leafhopper infected with the symbiont differed depending on the leafhopper species and the province. Continuing research: This project will end in March 2011. Contact:Chrystel Olivier, AAFC-Saskatoon Research Centre, 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0X2, Canada. Chrystel.olivier@agr.gc.ca

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AGRICULTURE AND AGRI-FOOD CANADA

SEMIARID PRAIRIE AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH CENTER OF SWIFT CURRENT

1. Title: Control of the Wheat Stem Sawfly (Cephus cinctus Nort.) Author and associates: R. DePauw, A.K. Singh, R.E. Knox, F.R. Clarke (SPARC, AAFC). Problem: The wheat stem sawfly (Cephus cinctus Norton) is an insect pest that can cause significant damage if it is not controlled. Control is practised through growing solid stem cultivars and agronomic considerations such as crop rotations. The wheat stem sawfly was probably the most important insect pest in Alberta and Saskatchewan in the past two years; unlike the grasshopper, wheat stem sawfly cannot be controlled by pesticide application. Over the past five years, wheat stem sawfly infestation and damage to wheat crops has increased significantly throughout the Palliser Triangle of southern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan. Yield losses result from reduced kernels per head, kernel weight, test weight and grain from heads of stems girdled, then toppled by wind onto the ground and not harvested. These losses are compounded by additional operating costs (harvesting in one direction and cutting low to the ground) that result in an average loss of about $10/acre (about $25/ha), a reduction in snow trap potential, less standing crop residue to control soil erosion, and require extra tillage to prepare a seedbed for subsequent crop due to long straw on the soil surface. Severely infested wheat may have reduced milling properties and be down-graded due to reduced volume density. More than 2.5 M hectares in Canada are at risk of infestation by the sawfly. Summary: The population of the wheat stem sawfly appeared to be more variable in 2009. Cutting was still very high in hexaploid and durum wheat in some areas. The population is declining due to a combination of the wide spread use of Lillian and the build up of the parasitoid (Bracon cephi Gahan). Lillian came onto the market very strong in 2006 and became the most widely grown CWRS variety in both 2007 and 2008 and is widely grown again in 2009. Lillian has not only resistance to the wheat stem sawfly but also has high grain yield, high grain protein concentration and good disease resistance. Lillian has demonstrated resistance to yellow rust (stripe rust) based on the yellow rust genes Yr18 linked to Lr34 and Yr36 linked to Gpc-B1. (DePauw) Continuous plant breeding efforts are on-going towards development and registration of a solid-stemmed durum wheat cultivar. Currently, one 2nd year line and two 1st year solid stemmed

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durum genotypes are in the Co-op testing. Advanced lines are under evaluation for possible entry into Co-op test in 2010. Contact: R. DePauw, AAFC-Swift Current, PO Box 1030, Swift Current, SK, S9H 3X2 ron.depauw@agr.gc.ca ### 2. Title: Midge Resistant Wheat Cultivars for Alberta Authors and Associates: R. M. DePauw, R.E. Knox A.K. Singh, M. Smith, F.R. Clarke, and J. Mitchell-Fetch Funding Source: Alberta Crop Industry Development Fund and WGRF for 3 yrs. Problem: The wheat midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana) has caused significant damage to wheat crops in Western Canada in recent years and was a major down-grading factor in 2006 and 2007. Three CWRS cultivars and one CWES cultivar were registered in 2007 and are expected to enter the market place in fall 2009 and 2010. However, these cultivars are not optimally adapted to Alberta conditions. Objective: Genetic Enhancement and cultivar development (application for funding to ACIDF): Incorporate resistance to wheat midge conferred by the Sm1 gene into Canada Western Red Spring wheat background adapted to Alberta conditions Summary of Results: agreement has been signed, early generation breeding lines are been assessed for adaptation to Alberta conditions and response to midge. New genetic combinations are being made. Sm1 gene is being tracked with DNA markers. Contact: R. DePauw, AAFC-Swift Current, PO Box 1030, Swift Current, SK, S9H 3X2 ron.depauw@agr.gc.ca

### 3. Title: Development of midge resistant durum wheat cultivars Author and Associates: A.K. Singh, R. DePauw, R. Knox, F. Clarke, AAFC Swift Current; I. Wise, S.L. Fox, CRC Problem: A single antibiotic resistance gene (Sm1) identified in winter wheat, was transferred into spring hexaploid wheat and subsequently transferred to durum wheat. Despite continuous efforts, midge resistant durum wheat genotypes proposed for varietal registration, have not met

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the strict end-use quality requirements for the Canada Western Amber Durum (CWAD) class. Efforts are on-going to develop and register a midge resistant durum cultivar in Canada. Summary of Results: AAFC durum breeding program is working towards development of midge resistant genotype with superior agronomic, quality and disease resistance package. Advanced lines in Pre-Coop testing were grown and selected in 2008. A durum line with Sm1 gene for midge tolerance was advanced to the 2009 Coop test as 1st year entry. Additional lines will be entered in the 2010 Coop test as 1st year entries. This breeding effort is supported by field midge screening by I. Wise and S.L. Fox at CRC. Contact: A.K. Singh, SPARC-AAFC, PO Box 1030, Swift Current, SK, S9H3X2. Phone: 306-778-7256; email: Asheesh.Singh@agr.gc.ca ### 4. Title: Effect of the midge resistance SM1 gene on durum wheat use quality Author and Associates: A.K. Singh, R. Knox, F. Clarke, R. DePauw, SPARC_AAFC, Swift Current; B. Beres, AAFC Lethbridge; J. Clarke, C. Pozniak, U of S.; I. Wise, CRC-AAFC, Winnipeg; B. Marchylo, L. Schlichting, GLR-CGC, Winnipeg. Funding Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund, Alberta Crop Industry Development Fund, WGRF, AAFC.

Problem: A single antibiotic resistance gene (Sm1) identified in winter wheat, was transferred into spring hexaploid wheat and subsequently transferred to durum wheat. Despite continuous efforts, midge resistant durum wheat genotypes proposed for varietal registration, have not met the strict end-use quality requirements for the Canada Western Amber Durum (CWAD) class. This could be due to genetic linkage of Sm1 with genes that reduce end-use quality, or to negative effects of Sm1 directly on end use quality. The Sm1 gene produced phenolic compunds, which are known to affect color, ash and enzyme activities. This research will help durum breeding programs at AAFC and University of Saskatchewan to better understand the effect of the Sm1 gene on durum end-use quality parameters such as protein, pigment, falling number, gluten strength, semolina yield, ash, and cooking quality. DNA based markers will also be developed, which can be used to further reduce linkage drag at Sm1. Through the use of improved DNA marker technology, this study will assist plant breeders to effectively select the Sm1 gene and minimize undesirable linkage with unacceptable end-use quality factors. Breeders will be able to reduce the number of detrimental non-durum genes linked to the Sm1.

Objectives: 1. To study the effect of midge resistance Sm1 on end-use quality in durum (Triticum turgidum var. durum) wheat using related lines with and without the Sm1 resistance gene. 2. To make a genetic map of the Sm1 region in durum wheat to identify better molecular markers that will reduce linkage drag and to identify direct interactions of Sm1 gene on associated quality traits.

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Summary of results: This project was applied for funding in 2008 and project was approved in early 2009. Field experiments were planted at SK and MB locations in 2009. Spike samples have been collected and will be analyzed at CRC for midge infestation. Plot samples will be assessed for agronomic and quality traits in fall and winter 2009-10. Contact: A.K. Singh, SPARC-AAFC, PO Box 1030, Swift Current, SK, S9H3X2. Phone: 306-778-7256; email: Asheesh.Singh@agr.gc.ca

UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN HORTICULTURE

Title: Assessment of reduced risk alternatives to chlorpyrifos (Lorsban) for control of root maggot in cruciferous vegetables. Author: Bob Vernon (AAFC-Agassiz), Doug Waterer (University of Saskatchewan), funded by the Government of SK and the Growers. Problem: Assessing reduced risk alternatives to chlorpyrifos (Lorsban) for the control of root maggot in cruciferous vegetables. Summary of results: The same 10 different products were tested in different sites, on Rutabaga. All sites used similar production practices, treatment timing, levels and methods, as well as standard techniques of evaluation of the maggot damage. In Saskatoon the crop was devastated in all treatments except the Lorsban standard - and even had a high level of discard or trimming required. Results on the other sites are not analyzed yet. Contact: Bob Vernon, Box 1000, AAFC-Agassiz, BC, V0M 1A0. Bob.vernon@agr.gc.ca

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RESEARCH PROGRESS REPORT - MANITOBA 2009

Prepared by Ian Wise, Cereal Research Centre Agriculture and AgriFood Canada

Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2M9

Email: ian.wise@agr.gc.ca

CEREAL CROP RESEARCH

1)Title: Development of spring wheats with resistance to the wheat midge Sitodiplosis mosellana Author and Associates: SL Fox, PD Brown, IL Wise (iwise@agr.gc.ca), and G. Humphreys, Cereal Research Centre, O.O. Olfert, AAFC Saskatoon and R. DePauw, AAFC Swift Current Problem: The Sm1 R-gene renders wheat resistant to the wheat midge and is now broadly distributed in spring wheat breeding programs. The Sm1 gene, however, is the only known genetic source of resistance to the wheat midge. Screening land races of wheat for other resistant sources has not been successful. Summary of Results: Three CWRS varietal blends Unity, Goodeve and Fieldstar, and the CWES varietal blend Glencross have been licenced to seed companies and will be commercially available as 90 R: 10 S varietal blends in 2010. An additional midge resistant CWRS cultivar “Shaw” and a high-yielding CPS wheat, HY682, were registered in 2009. Significant work has been accomplished by a consortium of seed industry participants to develop a commercial release plan for these varietal blends. This information is available now at the following website: http://www.midgetolerantwheat.ca/. Other CWRS lines are found throughout the CWRS breeding program and their names and/or proportion of each test level are shown in Table 1. Two hard white wheat lines and two hard red Parkland wheats were in the first year co-op tests in 2009, and two hard red Parkland wheats in the second year tests. The proportion of midge resistant material in the breeding program is now sufficient to reduce efforts of selection. This should result in midge resistant cultivars getting produced while allowing more lines with other desirable characteristics to be retained in the breeding program. Also, it will be necessary to produce midge susceptible cultivars for producers who do not need or want midge resistant cultivars. Table 1. Frequency of lines at different stages in the CRC CWRS breeding program. Test Line names or number

of lines Proportion of lines in test

CBWC 3rd year entry BW415 1/(30-5)= 0.04 CBWC 2nd year entry BW431 1/(30-5)=0.04

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CBWC 1st year entry BW452, BW453 2/(30-5)=0.08 CBWB 9 9/(49-5-6)=0.24 CBWA 135 135/(209-15)=0.70 Bread wheat standard 1497 1497/(2592-95)=0.60 Oviposition deterrence is another midge resistance mechanism. A Ph.D. candidate Ali Gharalari successfully completed a Ph.D. thesis on this trait and has published on the implications for inheritance of deterrence, and the selection of strategies for midge deterrence that will support resistance provided by Sm1. 2)Title: Development of durum wheat with resistance to the wheat midge Author and Associates: A.K. Singh (Asheesh.Singh@agr.gc.ca), R. Knox, R. DePauw, F. Clarke, AAFC Swift Current; C. Pozniak, CDC Saskatoon; IL Wise (iwise@agr.gc.ca), S.L. Fox, CRC Problem: The insertion of the Sm1 gene from hexaploid wheats into suitable tetraploid durum wheat creates major end-use quality issues that requires extensive phenotypic and genetic selection. Summary of Results: The two durum breeding programs at Swift Current (AAFC) and Saskatoon (U of S) are working towards selecting genotypes with superior agronomic, quality and disease resistance package. Advanced lines in Pre-Coop testing were grown and selected in 2008. A durum line with Sm1 gene for midge tolerance was advanced to 2009 Coop test. Additional lines will be entered in the 2010 Coop test. This effort has been supported by field midge screening at CRC. Initial field screening of 84 AAFC durum wheat lines at Glenlea identified the presence of the Sm1 gene in many of the advanced lines, and the generated information was utilized by the breeder. At least 18 lines had earlier segregated for wheat midge resistance, and contained susceptible and resistant isogenic lines. The susceptible and resistant seed of these lines were separated, and the resistant seed from these lines and from fully resistant lines will be increased at the contra season nursery in New Zealand. The lines with the best quality and phenotypic traits will be selected for testing at various sites in western Canada in 2010. 3)Title: Development of management strategies to minimize the selection of virulent midge biotypes. Author and Associates: MAH Smith (msmith@agr.gc.ca), SL Fox, IL Wise (iwise@agr.gc.ca), CRC Problem: Wheats with antibiotic resistance to the wheat midge usually cause mortality to larvae in excess of 99% and a comparable reduction in populations of the wheat midge parasitoid.

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When used on a commercial scale, midge-resistant wheat varieties will put a substantial selection pressure on the midge population, resulting in higher proportions of virulent midge that can survive on resistant wheat. An interspersed refuge of 10% susceptible wheat is being added to new wheat midge resistant cultivars, which are available to growers as varietal blends. This refuge is designed to delay the development of virulence by the wheat midge by reducing selection of individuals that survive on resistant wheat. At the same time, the proportion of susceptible wheat is low enough that downgrading or appreciable yield losses will be minimized during years of high wheat midge populations. The potential for drift of the refuge from the initial 10% is a concern if farmers save seed to plant the following year, especially in years of high infestation. A second type of resistance that results in reduced wheat midge oviposition is present in some spring wheat and durum lines. This oviposition deterrence will reduce the level of midge damage, and when combined with antibiotic resistance, can reduce selection pressure for virulent midge. Objectives of Research: 1) Assess the potential for drift from the initial 10% in a refuge of susceptible wheat added to resistant wheat and determine factors that may cause drift. 2) Determine or confirm the presence of oviposition deterrence to the wheat midge in several wheat lines and registered wheat cultivars. Summary of Results: Field studies on the potential of drift in the refuge from the initial 10% were initiated in 2005 at Glenlea, MB. There were four treatments, each a blend using different wheat lines. Seed harvested from the 2005 experiment was used to initiate the 2006 experiment which was seeded at Glenlea and Brandon, then saved-seed from each respective location was used to continue the experiment in 2007 and 2008. At both locations the proportion of refuge has drifted down in most treatments. Several factors are related to this drift, but differences between the components (resistant and susceptible) in agronomic characters such as tillering rate and head size appear to be more important than year-to-year differences in midge infestation rate. The field component of this research project is complete and all field material has been processed. Data analyses are mostly complete. Oviposition deterrence of four susceptible CWRS and two susceptible CPS wheats was evaluated in a two-replicate experiment at two sites (Portage and Winnipeg). Waskada, a recently registered cultivar, which is also the susceptible component of midge resistant Unity VB, was consistently deterrent compared to the susceptible control. Two CPS wheats, HW Alpha and a sister line, Alpha 16, showed a moderate level of oviposition deterrence. Continuing Research: 2) Our multi-field wheat midge population genetics simulation model has been expanded to include crop rotation and the relationships between crop rotation and virulence development will be investigated. 3) The test for oviposition deterrence in recent BW lines and components of some recently registered midge-resistant wheat cultivars will be repeated in 2010.

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4)Title: Agronomic and quality impacts of midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana) on wheat Author and associates: R. DePauw, SPARC AAFC, Swift Current, depauw@agr.gc.ca S. Fox, AAFC CRC, sfox@agr.gc.ca,, Vera, C., AAFC Melfort, Lukow, O., Procunier, D., M. Smith, and I. Wise, CRC. Problem: Damage by midge larvae causes wheat kernels to shrivel, crack and become deformed. This reduces both the yield and the quality of the grain. A single antibiotic resistance gene (Sm1) has been transferred into spring wheat varieties by breeders in western Canada. As resistance based on a single gene is often short-lived, these resistant wheat lines have been proposed to be sold as the major component in varietal blends (90:10 RS) which will also include a small proportion of a susceptible cultivar, known as an interspersed refuge. The stability of varietal blends has not been tested over time. Many producers use farm-saved seed to produce wheat crops. Varietal blend stability will be necessary for producers to assess the economic impact of using their own seed and to protect the long term utility of the Sm1 midge resistance gene. Summary: Four varieties, Goodeve, Fieldstar, Unity and Shaw, possessing the Sm1 gene, have been tested as varietal blends for three years in agronomic trials at 8 locations in western Canada. In the first two years, resistant blends vary in their effectiveness against midge, but have less damage to kernels than cultivars without Sm1. Market grade is higher for resistant varieties in areas with high midge infestations. The stability of the blends was monitored over two generations with SNP markers. A total of ~ 29,000 individual seeds were scored for both the 1st & 2nd generations (100 seeds per plot/ 4-5 plots per location/ 8 locations/ 4 genotypic blends). The blend ratios showed the expected 90 resistant: 10 susceptible ratio, within sampling error. Some locations/ genotypes showed a 95:5 or 85:15 ratio which could be due to a very small genetic (cultivar) drift or sampling error…. probably sampling error. Below are the results of generation #2. Generation #1 was identical to generation #2, within error. For some genotypes/locations, a second SNP site was used to confirm the results of the 1st SNP site and showed a 99.9% concordance.

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5)Title: Development of research protocol for the addition of the wheat midge as a variety

description in provincial variety selection and growers source guides.

Authors and Associates: IL Wise and SL Fox, CRC

Problem: Spring wheat varieties resistant to the wheat midge can vary in their response to midge attack and some susceptible lines have lower oviposition or larval establishment that necessitate a rating scale to separate varietal differences.

Summary of results: Varieties with Sm1 differ in the prevalence of midge-damaged seed at harvest. The seed is damaged when larvae attempt to feed on newly developed seed. The new variety Shaw suffers very little damage while Fieldstar and, to a lesser extent, Unity may have characteristically midge-damaged seed in areas with high infestations. The midge varieties Waskada (oviposition deterrence) and 5602HR (larval deterrence) have 30-70% lower midge damage than other susceptible varieties. A rating scale for wheat midge will be proposed to the Prairie Grain Development Committee in 2010.

6)Title: Development of spring wheat germplasm with resistance to the wheat midge and the

Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor

Authors and Associates: IL Wise and SL Fox, CRC

Problem: The development of cultivars with specific agronomic traits is delayed if these traits have to be obtained from distant genetic sources.

Summary of Results: Lines of wheat in all classes with wheat midge resistance and H3, H6 or H18 gene genes for Hessian fly resistance were tested in the field for agronomic traits in 2009.

Resistant-90% Susceptible-10%

Varietal blend SNP site

Blend #1 Unity-T allele Waskada-C allele

Unity VB 161E06F346

Blend #2 Fieldstar-T allele

Waskada- C allele

Fieldstar VB 161E06F346

Blend #3 BA51B92- G allele

BA51C222- A allele

BW394 001-A07F264

Blend #4 Goodeve-A allele

AC Intrepid- G allele

Goodeve VB 001-A07F264

Blend #5 Glencross Burnside

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These lines are in registered wheat cultivars or advanced breeding lines, and can be crossed with advanced breeding lines to incorporate recently developed disease and quality traits. Adanced spring wheat breeding lines with HF-resistant winter wheat pedigrees were also screened for possible retention of HF genes.

OILSEED, SPECIALITY AND VEGETABLE CROP RESEARCH

Title 1: Potato virus Y (PVY O and PVY N:O) impact on potato cultivars and management through oil sprays. Author and Associates: D.L. McLaren, Crop Production Pathologist, Brandon Research Centre, AAFC, Brandon, MB; B.G. Elliott and T. Shinners-Carnelley, Manitoba Agriculture,Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI), Soils and Crops Branch, Carman, MB; R. Mohr and M. Khakbazan, Brandon Research Centre, AAFC, Brandon, MB; D. Tomasiewicz, Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre. Funding source(s) (2007): Seed Potato Growers' Association of Manitoba, Keystone Vegetable Producers Association, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives, Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre. Objective of Research: The objectives are: a) to assess oil sprays for PVY management in commonly grown potato cultivars; b) to determine the impact of PVY strains PVYO and PVY N:O on potato yield and quality under Manitoba environmental conditions and c) to assess aphid populations in the Carberry potato production region for species that are important in the spread of PVY. Note that 2009 for the aphid trapping network was year 2 of the transition where most of the sites were established and maintained by MAFRI and CMCDC. The Carberry site was monitored by AAFC-Brandon. Progress (2009): The aphid trapping network was established at 9 sites throughout the Manitoba potato producing regions and aphids were captured over approximately 12 sampling interval end dates. Green peach, potato, and buckthorn aphid identifications were conducted from samples collected from traps and leaves. In a replicated virus spread trial with known diseased plants, aphids were collected over the season, and three sampling dates of plant material were collected for RT-PCR to assess oil spray as a management tool for PVY. General observations, comments, conclusions to date: Aphid populations peaked at the Carberry site in mid to late August of this year and the most efficient vector, the green peach aphid was first observed during the week ending August 26th. Potato and buckthorn aphids were captured from traps throughout the field season beginning the week of July 20th with other aphid species captured prior to this time. Capture of green peach aphids over all 9 locations peaked the week ending September 3rd. Very warm weather occurred late in the season in 2009. Analyses of tubers collected from the 2008 oil study indicated that application of oil reduced the spread of PVY under Manitoba environmental conditions. Results on the impact of oil on PVY spread in

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2009 are not available yet. Data collection and assessment of PVY strains on potato yield and quality are ongoing.

2)Title: Management of root maggots Delia radicum on oilseed rape in Manitoba Author and Associates: N.J. Holliday (neil_holliday@umanitoba.ca), Dept. of Entomology, University of Manitoba, U. Kuhlmann, CABI Bioscience Centre, Switzerland. Problem: The cabbage root maggot is a serious pest of canola in many parts of western Canada. Various tillage and seeding practices that lessen damage have been studied because insecticides can not be effectively applied. Objective of Research: To assess the potential for introducing European parasitoids for control of root maggots (particularly Delia radicum) in canola in Canada. A candidate species, Aleochara bipustulata, is being studied for its efficacy and associated risk. Summary of Results: Previous studies have shown that European species, Aleochara bipustulata, is a promising candidate for classical biological control of root maggots in canola. We have already shown that it does not have negative effects on parasitism of its native congener, A. bilineata: the rate of maggot parasitism from the two species is higher than for either alone, when the same number of pairs of adult Aleochara are confined with cabbage maggot puparia. We have investigated risks of parasitism to non-target Diptera, using 18 candidate non-target species in a no-choice system. Of these, five non-target species were attacked including another anthomyiid, and four species with very small puparia from which small, and possibly unfit adult A. bipustulata emerged. Host range is also limited by habitat association: A. bipustulata occurs in a wide range of crop habitats but not in forests. Further studies on interactions with other natural enemies and on the species range of prey taken by adult A. bipustulata are in progress; preliminary studies of prey range show it to be surprisingly narrow. We are also studying the the role of simply organic sulphur compounds in host and prey location and host and prey acceptance by adults and larvae of A. bilineata and A. bipustulata.

3)Title: Economic significance of populations of mirid bugs in beans Authors and Associates: N.J. Holliday (neil_holliday@umanitoba.ca), Dept of Entomology, U of Manitoba Problem: In Manitoba, insecticides are applied in some years for control of lygus bugs and alfalfa plant bugs in dry edible beans, and there is evidence that lygus bugs may cause reduced yield quantity and quality in dry beans. There are also reports of lygus bugs in soybeans, although there is no information on the significance of these for yield. No thresholds are available for assisting bean producers to make economically sound decisions about the need for control of plant bugs in dry beans or soybeans in Manitoba.

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Objective of Research: To develop economic injury levels for lygus bugs (and if necessary alfalfa plant bugs) on dry edible beans and to document seasonal patterns of occurrence of plant bugs on dry eddible beans and soybeans. Summary of Results: Preliminary field surveys of dry beans in 2008 revealed that three species of lygus bugs and some alfalfa plant bugs were present, and that nymphs of lygus bugs were present from late July to early September. Samples of beans at harvest are currently being taken and yield quantity and quality estimates will tested for association with plant bug numbers. 4)Title: Dutch elm disease: evaluation of control alternatives Authors and Associates: N.J. Holliday (neil_holliday@umanitoba.ca), Dept of Entomology, U of M, J. Leferink, Manitoba Conservation, and D. Domke, City of Winnipeg Problem: Native elm bark beetles are the principle vectors of the pathogen causing Dutch elm disease in Manitoba. Nearly 30 years after Dutch elm disease reached the province, urban centres still retain a significant proportion of their elm trees. However tree losses to disease continue to be unacceptably high despite a vigorous program of integrated disease management. Objective of Research: We are nearing the end of a four year study of management of Dutch elm disease with the following objectives:

• to compare the value of early removal of infected elm trees with that of removing infected trees in the winter after symptom detection,

• to find an alternative for the pesticide that is currently used for basal application, and • to develop a method for assessing the population size of over-wintering native elm

bark beetles. Summary of Results: By removing newly-symptomatic trees at monthly intervals after diagnosis and dissecting them, we have shown that adult native elm bark beetles, Hylurgopinus rufipes, can emerge from newly-symptomatic trees and when they do, most of them are carrying spores of the Dutch elm disease pathogen. In warm summers, this emergence begins in late August, but in years of average temperature, the emergence begins in September. We studied rates of new Dutch elm disease infection in 14 rural Manitoba communities. Seven of these have, since 2004, practiced rapid removal of elms within weeks of summer diagnosis of the disease; the other seven communities, which were paired with first set on the basis of location and size, continued with the conventional winter removal. In each community, areas of about 0.6 km2 of residential streets were selected for study. In 2004, infection rates did not differ between communities with different removal regimes, but in the next 3 years, new infection rates in communities with rapid removal were significantly lower than in communities with winter removal. Infection rates in all communities, regardless of removal regime were low in 2008 and 2009. Bioassays show that the most promising alternative to the current insecticide for killing overwintering beetles (chlorpyrifos) is the pyrethroid bifenthrin, further bioassays to determine duration of residual efficacy are in progress. We have not been successful in finding a reliable, cost-effective method of sampling to determine which trees need basal applications to control

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overwintering beetles, but we have determined that trees of < 10 cm DBH do not require treatment, and that the majority of beetles overwinter within 10 cm of the soild surface. As many as 30 % of beetles overwinter underground. 5)Title: Bionomics of the banded elm bark beetle Authors and Associates: N.J. Holliday (neil_holliday@umanitoba.ca), Dept of Entomology, U of M, J. Leferink, and I Pines, Manitoba Conservation, and R. McIntosh, Saskatchewan Environment Problem: Banded elm bark beetles, Scolytus schevyrewi are native to Asia and were first detected in North America in 2002. They are now regularly collected in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, but nothing is known about their biology in these two provinces. This beetle is likely to be able to vector the pathogen of Dutch elm disease, and probably cannot be managed in the same way as the native elm bark beetle, which is currently our major vector. Objective of Research: The overall objective is to determine whether and how integrated disease management practices for Dutch elm disease should be modified if banded elm bark beetle becomes abundant. We are focussing on three objectives: 1. To determine the number of generations of banded elm bark beetles and overwintering stages of banded elm bark beetles in Saskatchewan and Manitoba 2. To investigate suitability of different species of host trees as brood material for banded elm bark beetles and native elm bark beetles. 3. To investigate interactions of the two elm bark beetles, the Dutch elm disease pathogen, and different potential host tree species. Summary of Results: Work began in May 2009 at three communities in Saskatchewan and three communities in Manitoba. At these sites, we deployed pheromone-baited sticky traps to be changed weekly to determine flight periods, and unbaited sticky traps on three tree species to assess the range of host trees used by banded elm bark beetles. Trap logs of the same three tree species were deployed in two communities to determine the time brood galleries are constructed and the overwintering stage of the beetles. To date, we have detected large numbers of banded elm bark beetles in the three Saskatchewan communities and smaller numbers in Manitoba. Further results are not yet available.

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STORED GRAIN RESEARCH

1)Title: Combined effect of carbon monoxide mixed with carbon dioxide in air on the mortality of stored grain insects

Authors: F. Wang, D.S. Jayas, Department of Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba, N.D.G. White, P.G. Fields, Cereal Research Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Winnipeg

Objective: Determine the effects of CO and CO2 which occur naturally in grain bins on insect mortality

Summary of Results: A study to determine the effect of carbon monoxide (CO) mixed with carbon dioxide (CO2) in air on controlling stored-grain insects was conducted in the laboratory. Within modified airtight gas exposure units containing wheat at 15% moisture content wet basis (w.b.), mixed-age adults of rusty grain beetle, Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens), red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), and granary weevil, Sitophilus granarius (L.) were exposed for 48, 96, 144, or 172 h to three types of gas mixtures in air, 5% CO, or 30% CO2, or 5% CO + 30% CO2 at 20EC and 30EC, the balance of the gas being air in each case.

Carbon monoxide alone had no effect on the mortality of adults of the three insect species.

For C. ferrugineus, there was no difference in mortality between CO2 alone and the CO2 + CO mixture at either temperature for all exposures. However, both T. castaneum and S. granarius had higher mortality in the CO2 + CO mixture than the CO2 alone at both temperatures. Moreover, S. granarius was more susceptible to CO2 + CO mixture than T. castaneum. These results suggest that for certain species, CO could be used to increase the efficiency of CO2, especially at high temperatures. 2)Title: Optimal environmental search and scattered orientations during movement of adult rusty grain beetles, Cryptolestes ferrugineus in grain bulks Authors: F. Jian, D.S. Jayas, Department of Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba, N.D.G. White, Cereal Research Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Winnipeg

Objective: To predict dispersal patterns of adult rusty grain beetles in grain bins

Summary of Results:

An understanding of insect movement and distribution within grain bulks is essential to effectively control insect pests. In this paper, opinions published in the literature and related to random, downward, and bias movements (the tendency to move in non-random directions) of adults of Cryptolestes ferrugineus were compared and the net displacement of C. ferrugineus adults in stored-grain bulks was calculated. The average net displacement of the adults inside a stored-wheat mass was 0.435 " 0.229 m/d. The causes of the scattered orientations were

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analyzed and the following points were suggested: 1) both experimental observations and theoretical analyses did not support the view that adults of C. ferrugineus exhibit a positive geotactic behaviour; 2) the downward movement might be caused by adults= drifting; 3) during their bias movements in responding to environmental factors such as temperature gradients, adults did not significantly decrease their random movements; and 4) their dispersal inside granaries might be mainly influenced by their random movement, drift, and scattered orientations. At the individual level, they were always moving toward optimal environmental areas. At the population level, the random movement plus scattered orientations resulted in a diffusion distribution pattern. Comparison between the suggested diffusion pattern and the insect distributions published in the literature in the following areas was conducted: theoretical analyses of insect diffusion, movements, and distributions under laboratory conditions, and dispersal in full-size granaries. Results show that the published insect distributions were consistent with the suggested diffusion pattern.

3)Title: Detection of insect-damaged wheat kernels using near-infrared hyperspectral imaging Authors: C.B. Singh, D.S. Jayas, J. Paliwal, Department of Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba, N.D.G. White, Cereal Research Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Winnipeg Objective: To determine near-infrared light wavelengths that reveal insect damage to wheat in storage Summary of Results: Insect damage in wheat adversely affects its quality and is considered one of the most important degrading factors in Canada. The potential of near-infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging for the detection of insect-damaged wheat kernels was investigated. Healthy wheat kernels and wheat kernels visibly damaged by Sitophilus oryzae, Rhyzopertha dominica, Cryptolestes ferrugineus, and Tribolium castaneum were scanned in the 1000-1600 nm wavelength range using a NIR hyperspectral imaging system. Dimensionality of the acquired hyperspectral data was reduced using multivariate image analysis. Six statistical image features (maximum, minimum, mean, median, standard deviation, and variance) and 10 histogram features were extracted from images at 1101.69 and 1305.05 nm and given as input to statistical discriminant classifiers (linear, quadratic, and Mahalanobis) for classification. Linear discriminant analysis and quadratic discriminating analysis classifiers correctly classified 80-100% healthy and insect-damaged wheat kernels. 6)Title: The use of sulfuryl fluoride as a replacement for methyl bromide to control pests in flour mills. Author and Associates: Paul Fields (pfields@agr.gc.ca), CRC, AAFC Winnipeg Problem: The red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum is one of many serious insect pests in flour mills. Methyl bromide (MB) is a very effective broad spectrum fumigant. It is the major tool to control insects in food processing facilities, such as flour mills, pasta production plants and

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breakfast cereal plants. In 1992, methyl bromide was recognized as a significant ozone depleter and its consumption was frozen in 1995 and phased-out in 2005 in developed countries. After this time, countries must receive Critical Use Exemptions (CUE) to use methyl bromide. Thus, an alternative method to control stored-products insects in flour mills is needed. Summary of Results: At the request of the Canadian Pasta Manufactures Association (CPMA), the Government of Canada has applied for and received CUE for methyl bromide for some pasta plants in Canada; 10.5 t in 2005, 10.5 t in 2006, 6.8 t in 2007, 6.1 t in 2008, and 4.7 t in 2009. An application for 4.7 t for 2010 is under review. Given the pressing need to find alternatives to methyl bromide fumigation in pasta plants in Canada, the CPMA received funding from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to assist CPMA member companies to test alternatives to methyl bromide in 2007 and 2008, and to compare these alternative treatments to standard methyl bromide treatments. There were three trials with sulfuryl fluoride (SF, ProFume®, Dow AgroSciences), and five trials with methyl bromide. The trials took place at three pasta plants across Canada. Plants varied in size and age and the trials took place in both summer and fall. The treatments were characterized by measuring temperatures and gas concentrations. The efficacy of treatments was estimated in two ways; bioassays and trapping. For the bioassays, just before the treatments, vials containing adults and eggs of the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)) were placed throughout the plant to determine efficacy. For trapping, pheromone traps were placed throughout the plant to estimate flour beetle populations within the plants before and after treatments. Bioassays: Both MB and SF treatments were effective in killing 100% of adult red flour beetles put out as bioassays. All eggs were killed in the MB fumigation. In the SF treatments, egg mortality ranged from 69 to 81%. Some of the egg survival could be due to doing partial fumigation and leaky sections of the mill. Trapping: Plant # 2 never caught any insects in the traps despite traps being used well before the MB and SF fumigations. Plant # 3 did not place the traps before the MB fumigation, so there is no estimation of populations before the treatment. Insects caught in the traps rose after the MB fumigations in Plants # 1 and 3. In Plant # 1, insects were trapped immediately after MB fumigation, but populations did not rise to pre-treatment levels within the 20 weeks of sampling. After the SF fumigation, populations rose to 100% of pre-treatment levels in 12 weeks in Plant #1 and #3. Comparing the SF fumigations with the MB fumigations is difficult, because pest pressures and weather conditions change from year to year, two of the three SF fumigations were partial fumigations, pheromone trapping did not start before MB fumigations in Plant # 3, and Plant # 2 had populations to0 low to measure the effect of fumigation. Plants # 1 and 3 replaced a MB fumigation with the SF, and did not have to redo the fumigation

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with MB. However, in plant # 3, additional pest control measures, fogging with dichlorvos and sanitation, were needed after the SF fumigation, that were not needed after the MB fumigation.

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Appendix III - Resolutions November , 2009 To: The Western Committee on Crop Pests (WCCP) is a group of primarily entomologists that meet annually to discuss current insect concerns, research directions, and issues of current concern. One of the issues discussed at the 2009 WCCP meeting is that there has been an apparent increase in crop loss from cutworms in many crops in recent years. In some cases the species of cutworms that have been identified from some of these fields are not species that have commonly been associated as crop pests. Differentiating between species of cutworms can be a very difficult task, which requires specialized keys and trained personal. Knowing the species of cutworms that are dominant in a field is, however, important in determining the types and timing of control that may be appropriate, and the potential of the population to do damage. Given the recent increase in crop loss from cutworms, and the lack of recent information regarding species of cutworms, it was proposed at the 2009 meeting of the Western Committee on Crop Pests that efforts be made to direct research towards cutworm ecology, including the geographical distribution and identification of cutworm species, and forecasting options to provide beneficial management practices for producers. We thus encourage the support of your organization in ensuring that research on cutworms in a priority when such opportunities arise. A better understanding of the species and habits of the cutworms that have recently caused concern will enable us to better manage cutworms and predict their impact. Sincerely,

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2009 Western Committee on Crop Pests Winnipeg, MB

January 5, 2010 Mark Goodwin Pulse Canada Winnipeg, Manitoba R0G 0J0 Dear Mark, The Western Committee on Crop Pests (WCCP) is a working group of the Western Forum on Pest Management that meets annually to discuss current pest insect concerns, research directions, and issues of entomological interest. The 2009 meeting of the WCCP was held in Winnipeg on October 16, with about 30 participants. One of the issues discussed at the 2009 WCCP meeting was the recent increase in crop damage from cutworms in many crops. In some cases the species of cutworms identified are not species that are commonly associated as being crop pests. Identifying cutworms species requires specialized keys and trained personnel. Knowing the dominant species of cutworms in a field is important in order to determine the appropriate types and timing of control and the potential of the population to cause damage. Given the recent increase in damage by cutworms and the lack of information on species identity, it was proposed at the 2009 meeting of the WCCP that research be directed to the geographical distribution and identification of cutworm species, and forecasting methods for producers. We recommend government entomologists and research scientists conduct this work with support from commodity groups in ensuring research and forecasting programs succeed. On behalf of all participants at the 2009 meeting of the Western Committee on Crop Pests , I would like to submit the following resolution that was proposed at the WCCP meeting: “Given that there is an apparent increase in crop damage from cutworms in many crops, be it resolved that the WCCP chairperson write a letter to respective funding groups (WGRF, Canola Council of Canada, Pulse Canada) to propose that research be directed to the geographic distribution and identification of cutworm species, and forecasting methods be developed to provide management practices for producers.” We seek the support of your organization to help ensure that research on cutworms strongly is encouraged in order to better manage and predict their impact.

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Please visit the website WWW.westernforum.org for more information on the Western Forum on Pest Management and the Western Committee on Crop Pests. Respectfully, John Gavloski, Ph.D. Chair, Western Committee on Crop Pests C/o: Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Box 1149, 65 3rd Ave NE Carman, MB R0G 0J0