Effective July 11, 2021, Saskatchewan entered Step Three of the Re-Opening Roadmap and the public health order relative to COVID-19 was lifted. All restrictions related to the public health order were removed as of that date.
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The Saskatchewan Wheat Midge Forecast Map for 2021 shows increased pressure from wheat midge compared to 2020. Although, relatively low risk from the pest is likely in much of the province, significant populations were detected in the Southeast, Central and Northern growing regions. These numbers are greater than those that have been seen in recent years.
Good soil moisture favours this insect. Many regions saw adequate rainfall for development. At least 25 mm of precipitation prior to the end of May is required for proper development; lower levels reduce emergence of adults. Emergence can be delayed, extended or erratic and may not coincide with the susceptible stage of the wheat crop.
Some areas saw numbers greater than 1,800 per square metre. Importantly, counts greater than 600 wheat midge per square metre (yellow and orange) on the wheat midge map may still result in significant damage and yield loss, especially if springtime environmental conditions are favourable. In 2020, 419 samples were collected to produce the 2021 forecast map. Not all fields are sampled. The intention of the forecast is to provide a regional representation of wheat midge populations present in the fall of 2020.
To determine midge populations and, if necessary, timing of an insecticide application, growers are urged to monitor conventional wheat fields during the susceptible period – when the wheat head becomes visible as the boot splits until mid-flowering (anthesis). Regular field scouting on successive nights is important to understand wheat midge population changes in a particular field. Temperature and wind conditions significantly influence egg-laying by the adult female midge. High temperatures and high winds tend to reduce activity of egg-laying female midge.
There are options for managing wheat midge. If spring wheat is planned as part of a rotation, there are midge-tolerant wheat varieties available as varietal blends (VB). For 2020, VBs are available in CWRS, CPSR, CWSP, CWSWS, CNHR, CWES, and Durum wheat classes. Visit the Midge Tolerant Wheat Stewardship Team's website for information on midge-tolerant wheat and VBs. Also refer to the 2020 Saskatchewan Seed Guide for information.
You can also consider crop rotation to a non-host crop. Since spring wheat is the primary host for wheat midge, planting a non-susceptible cereal crop (e.g. oats, barley) or a broadleaf crop (e.g. canola, pulse) is a good option.
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