There are several potential hot spots for grasshoppers next year.

The forecast map is based on data gathered from more than 1,100 sites around the province by Sask Crop Insurance.

There were some fields above the 10 per square meter threshold—such as the Battlefords, Bjorkdale, Fox Valley, Maple Creek and Lampman regions.

This year’s grasshopper population was well above expectations as the insect flourished under the hot, dry conditions. Warm, humid weather creates disease problems for grasshoppers.

Grasshopper activity continued well into the fall.

“Conditions were favorable for egg laying,” said James Tansey, the provincial insect specialist with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture. “A lot of adults were active into October so the potential to contribute to next year’s population is pretty high.”

There are 85 species of grasshoppers, but only four cause significant crop damage. They are the clear-winged, two-striped, packard and migratory grasshoppers. The two-striped is the most common in our province.