Montana Slate Library 



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MONTANA INSECT PESTS 

 1955 and 1956 



Thirty-sixth Report of the State Entomologist 



J. H. Pepper N. L. Anderson G. R. Roemhild L. N. Graham* 



INTRODUCTION 



During the past biennium many insect species which were 

 formerly of only passing interest have increased to economic propor- 

 tions. Conversely, some of our normally abundant species have been 

 significant by their absence. Grasshoppers have been the biggest 

 single economic problem with which we have had to deal. 



Household and ornamental insect pests are either becoming more 

 numerous or else the public is becoming more aware of their presence. 

 Recently, a much larger proportion of the requests directed to this 

 office is for information and recommended control measures for these 

 types of insects. 



Present control methods of livestock insect pests leave much to 

 be desired both from convenience of application and, in the case of 

 cattle grubs, effectiveness. Louse control on cattle is a costly, time- 

 consuming job, if it is done correctly and effectively. Cattle grub 

 control as generally practiced does little to reduce future reinfestation, 

 and it is carried out at a time when most of the damage to meat and 

 hides has already been done. Wood tick control on sheep poses a 

 problem, especially where sheep have to be trailed into central areas 

 to be sheared. Solution of these problems would materially reduce 

 the multimillion-dollar insect loss which is taken by the livestock in- 

 dustry each year. 



A prevention approach to pest control has always been emphasized 

 as a basic principle by this department. This principle applies not 

 only to insects but to other animals which may be involved in such 

 things as grain contamination. In this latter respect we have cooperated 

 with the Federal Food and Drug Administration in attempting to 

 reduce losses due to seizure of contaminated grain. Since insects are 

 not the major contributing factor to contamination as they are in 

 neighboring states, emphasis has been placed on rodent, particularly 

 mouse, control. A thorough comprehension of the factors responsible 

 for mouse build-up is being utilized in advising grain trade people 

 on the best methods of controlling these pests. These basic principles 

 have been emphasized in our literature, discussions, and meetings. 



'State Entomologist: Assistant State Entomologist; Assistant State Entomologist: 

 Assistant State Apiarist. 



