Army worms a concern in some areas

Scattered storms brought rain to some parts of Texas, with many counties seeing warm days and cooler nights, reported Texas Cooperative Extension agents and specialists across the state.

Range, pastures and home lawns remained in good condition in most areas. But there have many reports of armyworms. In some cases, reports are of the proportion of "invasions."

Dr. Chris Sansone, Extension entomologist at San Angelo, said the reports of armyworm infestations are not surprising as conditions are ideal for the pest.

The armyworm is named for its habit of moving across pastures in large numbers like the legions of an advancing army, devouring grasses in its wake. Crops and lawns can literally disappear before your eyes, he said.

Farmers and ranchers are actively treating for the pest. However, Sansone noted, that once the caterpillars become large enough to see, control becomes much more difficult.

The following are compiled reports from Extension agents across the state:

EAST: Some counties received needed rain; others not. Hay harvesting continued with prices ranging from $25 to $40 per big round bales. Most hay barns are full, but quality is poor. With recent rainfall, pasture conditions improved. Reports of armyworms continued. Cattle conditions remained good to excellent. However there were reports of hornflies becoming a problem. Pecan growers in some areas were having a difficult time controlling. Black pecan aphid is also a problem in some orchards.

CENTRAL: Most counties received needed rain. Preparation for planting winter forages continued. Rangeland and livestock were in good condition.

SOUTHEAST: Hot and humid weather with intermittent rain showers continued this week. Pasture conditions were excellent. The hay harvest was reported as the best in three years, though harvests were hampered by isolated showers. Armyworms were widespread, but producers were treating fields. No wheat has been planted yet due to wet field conditions. Livestock are doing well.

COASTAL BEND: Three rain-free days at the close of last week allowed cotton harvest to resume in some counties, but wet fields are still a problem in most areas. Cotton has sustained losses in decreased square and boll retention as soils stayed wet for extended periods. Several weeks of dry weather are needed to complete the cotton harvest. Much of the grain sorghum crop is still in the field and is more than two months late for harvest. Quality is poor. Soybeans were ready to be harvested. Hay harvest has also been hampered. There was ample grass to cut for hay, but getting it baled before it rotted in the pasture remained a problem.