Study: Global warming could boost crop pests

Typography
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - The milder winters and longer growing seasons predicted under global warming forecasts could boost populations of crop-munching insects in the Midwest's corn country over the coming decades, new research suggests. Purdue University scientists said their findings could mean lower yields for corn and other crops -- and higher pest control costs for farmers -- as the climate warms up.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - The milder winters and longer growing seasons predicted under global warming forecasts could boost populations of crop-munching insects in the Midwest's corn country over the coming decades, new research suggests.

Purdue University scientists said their findings could mean lower yields for corn and other crops -- and higher pest control costs for farmers -- as the climate warms up.

!ADVERTISEMENT!

The researchers examined how global warming could impact winter's lowest readings and lengthen the growing season across the continental U.S. based on what the study's lead author said is a conservative climate change model.

They then used that data to determine the regions where four insects that feed on corn and other crops could survive until spring, based on forecasts of warmer winter readings. 

Article Continues: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-agr-globalwarming,0,4478528.story