2023 Saskatchewan Grasshopper Survey
Significant and damaging grasshopper populations were seen in 2023 in Central, West, Southwest, and far Southeastern regions. Large numbers, coupled with an early, warm weather-driven hatch of two-striped grasshopper led to the need for early and significant control efforts in many fields and in a variety of crops. Warm weather also contributed to rapid development of adults and early onset of egg laying. Two-striped grasshopper was by far the most prevalent species, but significant numbers of lesser migratory grasshopper were also seen. A long, dry period in July and August in much of the province allowed for good conditions for egg laying and embryo development and will likely contribute to continued grasshopper pressures in 2024.
This survey targets to assess four roadside sites per RM for grasshopper density. High local populations may not be reflected in this map. Please note that the term for this map has changed from the 2024 forecast to the 2023 survey map. There are several factors that can influence next year’s populations including the numbers of grasshoppers present in a region. These include temperature and precipitation, both during the current growing season and in the following spring.
Outside of the formal survey high grasshopper populations were reported in the Rosetown and Outlook areas. These populations were not seen in the survey but were significant in localized areas.