After severe grasshopper infestations in drier parts of southwest and west-central Saskatchewan this past year, there are concerns about populations for 2023.

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture grasshopper forecast map shows the worst problems are expected in the Milden, Elrose and Eston areas.

The map is based on adult grasshopper counts at more than 1,100 locations around the province.

The written comments accompanying the forecast map says two-striped grasshoppers were widespread this year.

Potentially economic damaging populations were found at 31 sites with more moderate counts at 181 other locations around the province.

Of the 1,134 surveyed sites, only ten did not have any adult grasshoppers.

The extended dry and warm late summer and fall meant good conditions for grasshopper egg laying.

The biggest concern will be for farmers planning to seed lentils because the crop is more sensitive to grasshopper damage.

Counts were high enough in many parts of west-central, southwest and south-central Saskatchewan to cause at least moderate damage next year.
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(with files from cjww)