Choose Your Own IPM Adventure Game

Welcome to Choose Your Own IPM Adventure! <img src="https://jcvcd.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/AdobeStock_578742234-scaled.jpeg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> To get started, choose a pest management scenario: [[Fall Armyworm in Corn]] [[Colorado Potato Beetle in Potato]] [[Spotted Wing Drosophila in Blueberry]] [[Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Soybean]]

{ (set: $yield to 10) (set: $budget to 10) (set: $beneficial to 5) (set: $resistance to 0) (set: $pest to 3) (set: $migrationBuffer to false) }Scenario: Fall Armyworm in Corn <img src="https://www.no-tillfarmer.com/ext/resources/images/2021/03/ISCA-fall-armyworm.webp?t=1614791449&width=1080" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> It is early spring in Tennessee, and you are preparing to manage a field of whorl-stage field corn. Regional extension alerts report that fall armyworm migration from the south is expected to be moderate to heavy this season due to favorable overwintering conditions and storm-assisted movement patterns. Fall armyworm larvae feed inside the whorl of young corn plants, where they are difficult to detect and can reduce plant vigor before tasseling. Early management decisions can strongly influence whether populations remain below action thresholds or require insecticide intervention later in the season. Your task is to manage this field using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles. Throughout the scenario you must balance crop yield protection, conservation of beneficial insects, resistance management, and treatment costs. Starting values: Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Yield = $yield Important note: Pest pressure and Beneficial insect values cannot drop below 0; for any further reductions, score stays at minimum of 0 [[Go to Stage 1: Pre-Season Planning Decision]]

{ (set: $yield to 10) (set: $budget to 10) (set: $beneficial to 5) (set: $resistance to 0) (set: $pest to 3) (set: $eggRemoval to false) }Scenario: Colorado Potato Beetle in Potato <img src="https://ogden_images.s3.amazonaws.com/www.motherearthnews.com/images/2013/03/06151639/coloradopotatobeetle.jpeg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> It is late spring in Tennessee, and your potato crop has recently emerged. Overwintered Colorado potato beetle adults are beginning to move from last year’s potato fields into new plantings. Because adults typically walk short distances to colonize new fields, early field placement decisions strongly influence infestation levels. Colorado potato beetle larvae can rapidly defoliate potato plants. If populations exceed action thresholds before flowering, yield potential can decline quickly. This species also has a long history of evolving resistance to repeated insecticide use, making management decisions especially important. Your task is to manage this field using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles while balancing yield protection, conservation of beneficial insects, resistance management, and treatment costs. Starting values: Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Yield = $yield Important note: Pest pressure and Beneficial insect values cannot drop below 0; for any further reductions, score stays at minimum of 0 [[Go to Stage 1: CPB Pre-Season Planning Decision]]

{ (set: $yield to 10) (set: $budget to 10) (set: $beneficial to 5) (set: $resistance to 0) (set: $pest to 3) (set: $migrationBuffer to false) }Scenario: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Soybean <img src="https://extension.purdue.edu/news/county/harrison/2021/media_2021/brown-stink-bug.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> It is mid-season in Tennessee, and your soybean field is entering the pod-fill stage. Regional Extension alerts report increasing activity of brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) in nearby agricultural areas and wooded field margins. Unlike some soybean pests that develop within the field, BMSB typically move into crops from surrounding landscapes such as woodlots, hedgerows, and buildings where they previously overwintered. BMSB feeding during pod fill damages developing seeds and reduces yield quality. Because populations often build first along field edges before spreading inward, where and how you scout strongly influences how quickly you detect damaging infestations. Your task is to manage this field using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles while balancing yield protection, conservation of beneficial insects, resistance management, and treatment costs. Starting values: Yield = $yield Budget = $budget Beneficial insects = $beneficial Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Important note: Pest pressure and Beneficial insect values cannot drop below 0; for any further reductions, score stays at minimum of 0 [[Turn to Stage 1: BMSB Initial Scouting Strategy]]

{ (set: $yield to 10) (set: $budget to 10) (set: $beneficial to 5) (set: $resistance to 0) (set: $pest to 3) (set: $migrationBuffer to false) }

{ (set: $yield to 10) (set: $budget to 10) (set: $beneficial to 5) (set: $resistance to 0) (set: $pest to 3) (set: $sanitationEarly to false) }Scenario: Spotted Wing //Drosophila// in Blueberry <img src="https://cals.cornell.edu/sites/default/files/styles/hero_landing_desktop/public/2022-10/swd-drosophila-suzukii-by-katja-schulz.jpg?h=4521fff0&itok=uAW-PcpU" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> It is early summer in Tennessee, and your berry crop is entering the early ripening window. Regional Extension alerts indicate increasing captures of spotted wing Drosophila (SWD) in monitoring traps across the region. Unlike many fruit flies, SWD females contain a serrated ovipositor that allows them to lay eggs in younger, ripening fruit, making early monitoring decisions critical for protecting marketable yield. SWD populations can increase rapidly once fruit begins to soften. Management decisions about monitoring, sanitation, and spray timing strongly influence whether infestations remain manageable through harvest. Sanitation refers to removing overripe, damaged, or fallen fruit from the field so that SWD cannot use those berries as places to lay eggs and complete development. Your task is to manage this field using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles while balancing yield protection, conservation of beneficial insects, resistance management, and treatment costs. Starting values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield Important note: Pest pressure and Beneficial insect values cannot drop below 0; for any further reductions, score stays at minimum of 0 [[Turn to Stage 1: SWD Pre-Ripening Monitoring Decision]]

Stage 1: Pre-Season Planning Decision Extension specialists warn that migrating moth flights may arrive earlier than usual this year. Before planting, you must decide how to reduce early-season risk. Plants that grow beyond the early whorl stage before moth arrival are less vulnerable to severe feeding injury. <img src="https://harvesttotable.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Corn-bigstock-Growing-Young-Green-Corn-Seedl-370790290.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Choose ONE: [[Plant early to avoid peak migration window]] Adjusting planting timing may allow plants to develop beyond their most vulnerable stage before major moth flights arrive. [[Plant Bt corn hybrid]] This hybrid expresses proteins toxic to early-stage larvae and often suppresses infestations before they establish. [[Plant non-Bt corn hybrid]] This maintains flexibility and lower seed cost but provides no built-in protection against early infestations.

Bt Corn Pathway Your Bt hybrid suppresses early larval survival shortly after hatch. Fewer larvae successfully establish in plant whorls, although exposure contributes slightly to long-term resistance selection pressure in regional populations. Pest pressure - 2 Resistance risk + 1 { (set: $pest to $pest - 2)(if: $pest < 0)[(set: $pest to 0)] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) } Updated values: Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Yield = $yield [[Continue to 2A Monitoring (Bt Field)]]

Non-Bt Corn Pathway You chose a conventional hybrid. This keeps costs predictable and preserves flexibility in management decisions later in the season, but it provides no early suppression of fall armyworm larvae. No change to pest pressure Updated values: Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2B Monitoring (Non-Bt Field)]]

Early Planting Pathway Your crop emerges earlier than neighboring fields. Because fall armyworm migration often peaks later in the planting window, your crop may partially escape the largest infestation wave. Migration buffer activated { (set: $migrationBuffer to true) } Updated values: Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2C Monitoring (Early Planting Field)]]

Stage 2B Monitoring (Non-Bt Field) Scouting crews inspect plants at multiple locations across the field by unrolling the whorl and looking for feeding damage and live larvae. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with larvae: 4 Action threshold: treat if 25% or more plants contain larvae <img src="https://plant-pest-advisory.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/FAW_whorl-rotated.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Choose ONE: [[Continue monitoring twice weekly->Stage 2 Monitoring Outcome]] Additional sampling will confirm whether populations are increasing. [[Apply insecticide immediately->Stage 2 Early Spray Outcome]] Treatment now may reduce risk but could be unnecessary if populations stabilize.

Stage 2C Monitoring (Early Planting Field) Scouting crews inspect plants at multiple locations across the field by unrolling the whorl and looking for feeding damage and live larvae. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with larvae: 1 Action threshold: treat if 25% or more plants contain larvae <img src="https://plant-pest-advisory.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/FAW_whorl-rotated.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Choose ONE: [[Continue monitoring twice weekly->Stage 2 Monitoring Outcome]] Maintain scouting schedule to detect later arrivals. [[Apply insecticide immediately->Stage 2 Early Spray Outcome]] Apply treatment now despite low infestation levels.

Stage 2A Monitoring (Bt Field) Scouting crews inspect plants at multiple locations across the field by unrolling the whorl and looking for feeding damage and live larvae. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with larvae: 2 Action threshold: treat if 25% or more plants contain larvae. <img src="https://plant-pest-advisory.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/FAW_whorl-rotated.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Choose ONE: [[Continue monitoring twice weekly->Stage 2 Monitoring Outcome]] Regular scouting allows detection of rapid population increases before economic injury occurs. [[Apply insecticide immediately->Stage 2 Early Spray Outcome]] Treating early may reduce uncertainty but risks unnecessary pesticide use.

Correct Monitoring Decision You avoided unnecessary early insecticide application. Beneficial predators and parasitoids remain active in the field and may help suppress small larvae naturally. <img src="https://ausveg.com.au/app/uploads/2021/10/Parasitoid-scaled.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Beneficial insects +1 { (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1) } Updated values: Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: Larval Identification]]

Early Spray Decision You applied insecticide before action thresholds were reached. While this may temporarily suppress larvae, it also increases selection pressure for resistance and reduces beneficial insect populations. <img src="https://ausveg.com.au/app/uploads/2021/10/Parasitoid-scaled.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Budget −2 Resistance risk +1 Beneficial insects −1 { (set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1)(if: $beneficial < 0)[(set: $beneficial to 0)] } Updated values: Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: Larval Identification]]

Stage 3: Larval Identification Follow-up scouting reveals most larvae are still early instars feeding deep inside plant whorls. Early instars are generally easier to control than larger larvae, because they are smaller and remain exposed near the whorl surface. However, populations can still be suppressed by natural enemies if conditions remain favorable. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with larvae: 6 Action threshold: treat if 25% or more plants contain larvae <img src="https://www.koppert.com/content/_processed_/f/e/csm_fall_armyworm_spodoptera_frugiperda_larva_corn_1_koppert_9a1afb4309.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Choose ONE: [[Apply broad-spectrum insecticide->Broad-Spectrum Spray]] Use a stronger treatment that affects both pests and natural enemies. [[Continue monitoring->Monitoring Continues]] Allow time for natural mortality while tracking infestation levels carefully. [[Apply selective insecticide->Selective Early-Instar Treatment]] Target small larvae with minimal impact on beneficial insects.

Monitoring Continues You delay treatment and continue scouting. Over the next week, additional larvae establish in several sampling areas. Pest pressure +2 { (set: $pest to $pest + 2) } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Stage 4: Migration Event]]

Selective Early-Instar Treatment You apply a selective insecticide targeting early instars within plant whorls. This reduces larval survival while preserving most beneficial species. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Beneficial insects −1 { (set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3)(if: $pest < 0)[(set: $pest to 0)] (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1)(if: $beneficial < 0)[(set: $beneficial to 0)] } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Stage 4: Migration Event]]

Broad-Spectrum Spray You apply a broad-spectrum insecticide across the field. Larval survival drops quickly, but predator and parasitoid populations are also reduced, increasing future outbreak risk. Budget −3 Pest pressure −4 Beneficial insects −3 Resistance risk +2 { (set: $budget to $budget - 3) (set: $pest to $pest - 4)(if: $pest < 0)[(set: $pest to 0)] (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 3)(if: $beneficial < 0)[(set: $beneficial to 0)] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 2) } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Stage 4: Migration Event]]

Stage 4: Migration Event Weather systems moving northward bring a regional migration wave of adult fall armyworm moths into the area. Newly hatched larvae begin establishing in vulnerable fields across the region. <img src="https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/AW4YI3TGXNGZXNVI2MC7WOTAKQ.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> { (if: $migrationBuffer is true)[ Your crop avoided peak migration timing and experiences minimal additional infestation. ] (if: $migrationBuffer is false)[ Pest pressure +2 (set: $pest to $pest + 2) ] } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield { (if: $pest >= 5)[ [[Pest pressure >=5, infestation now exceeds threshold->Threshold Exceeded]] ] (if: $pest < 5)[ [[Pest pressure < 5, populations remain below threshold->Threshold Not Reached]] ] }

Threshold Not Reached Populations remain below action thresholds. Continued monitoring combined with natural enemy activity keeps larval densities manageable. Beneficial insects +1 { (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1) } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome]]

Threshold Exceeded Scouting confirms infestation now exceeds the action threshold. Without intervention, yield loss risk is increasing. Choose: [[Continue monitoring despite threshold->Monitoring Despite Threshold]] Delay treatment and reassess later. [[Broadcast insecticide application->Broadcast Treatment Outcome]] Treat the entire field to quickly suppress populations. [[Targeted whorl treatment->Targeted Treatment Outcome]] Apply treatment directly to affected areas to reduce larvae efficiently.

Broadcast Treatment Outcome Your broadcast treatment rapidly suppresses larvae across the field. However, beneficial insects decline and resistance risk increases due to broad exposure. Budget −3 Pest pressure −4 Beneficial insects −2 Resistance risk +2 { (set: $budget to $budget - 3) (set: $pest to $pest - 4)(if: $pest < 0)[(set: $pest to 0)] (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 2)(if: $beneficial < 0)[(set: $beneficial to 0)] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 2) } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome]]

Monitoring Despite Threshold You delay treatment even though infestation exceeded thresholds. Continued feeding increases plant injury and reduces yield potential. Yield −2 Pest pressure +2 { (set: $yield to $yield - 2) (set: $pest to $pest + 2) } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome]]

Targeted Treatment Outcome Your targeted application suppresses larvae where they are most concentrated while limiting unnecessary exposure elsewhere in the field. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +1 { (set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3)(if: $pest < 0)[(set: $pest to 0)] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome]]

Harvest Outcome The growing season concludes. Evaluate how your management decisions influenced pest pressure, beneficial insects, resistance risk, and yield protection. <img src="https://www.agriculture.com/thmb/5AVSe1HcglBkhmyai7fQDbHf1KE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/JohnDeereS780combineincorn-563e34f978a14999a52c8a6b63917a89.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Final values: Yield = $yield Budget = $budget Beneficial insects = $beneficial Resistance risk = $resistance Pest pressure = $pest Final score calculation: Yield + Budget + Beneficial insects - Resistance risk - Pest pressure (set: $finalScore to $yield + $budget + $beneficial - $resistance - $pest) Your total Sustainability score = $finalScore Performance interpretation: { (if: $finalScore >= 12)[ Final score >= 12: Excellent IPM strategy. Your decisions protected yield while conserving beneficial insects and minimizing resistance risk and unnecessary treatment costs. ] } { (if: $finalScore >= 10 and $finalScore <= 13)[ Final score 8-11: Moderate IPM performance. Some decisions increased resistance risk, treatment costs, or reduced biological control effectiveness. ] } { (if: $finalScore <= 7)[ Final score <= 7: Room for IPM improvment. Management decisions reduced IPM effectiveness. Earlier threshold-based decisions or selective treatments may have improved outcomes. ] } [[Return to Scenario Selection->Start]]

Stage 1: Pre-Season Planning Decision <img src="https://www.epicgardening.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/potato-bushes.jpeg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Extension specialists recommend reducing early-season colonization by managing field placement relative to last year’s potato crop. Choose ONE: [[Rotate field at least ¼ mile from last year’s potato planting to reduce colonization from adults->Rotation Pathway]] [[Plant adjacent to last year’s potato planting->Adjacent Field Pathway]] [[Apply systemic insecticide at planting due to known historical pressure->Systemic Insecticide Pathway]]

Rotation Pathway Overwintered adults typically walk short distances from last year’s fields. Rotating planting location delays colonization and reduces early infestation pressure. Pest pressure −2 {(set: $pest to $pest - 2) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2A Egg Mass Monitoring (Rotated Field)]]

Adjacent Field Pathway Adults overwintered in last year’s field emerge directly into nearby plantings. Colonization pressure increases quickly. Pest pressure +2 (set: $pest to $pest + 2) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2B Egg Mass Monitoring (Adjacent Field)]]

Systemic Insecticide Pathway Systemic protection reduces early larval survival but increases resistance selection pressure. Pest pressure −1 Resistance risk +1 {(set: $pest to $pest - 1) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2C Egg Mass Monitoring (Systemic Field)]]

Stage 2A Egg Mass Monitoring (Rotated Field) <img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0603/4892/4151/files/colorado-potato-beetle_1243044-1.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Scouting crews inspect the undersides of potato leaves where beetles typically lay clusters of bright orange eggs. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with egg masses: 5 Action threshold: treat if ≥10 plants contain egg masses Choose: [[Continue monitoring->Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Spray immediately->Early Spray Decision]] [[Remove egg masses manually->Egg Mass Removal Outcome]]

Stage 2B Egg Mass Monitoring (Adjacent Field) <img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0603/4892/4151/files/colorado-potato-beetle_1243044-1.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Scouting crews inspect the undersides of potato leaves where beetles typically lay clusters of bright orange eggs. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with egg masses: 5 Action threshold: treat if ≥10 plants contain egg masses Choose: [[Continue monitoring->Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Spray immediately->Early Spray Decision]] [[Remove egg masses manually->Egg Mass Removal Outcome]]

Stage 2C Egg Mass Monitoring (Systemic Field) <img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0603/4892/4151/files/colorado-potato-beetle_1243044-1.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Scouting crews inspect the undersides of potato leaves where beetles typically lay clusters of bright orange eggs. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with egg masses: 5 Action threshold: treat if ≥10 plants contain egg masses Choose: [[Continue monitoring->Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Spray immediately->Early Spray Decision]] [[Remove egg masses manually->Egg Mass Removal Outcome]]

Monitoring Decision Outcome You continue scouting without intervention. Egg masses remain present and may hatch into larvae soon. Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: Larval Sampling]]

Egg Mass Removal Outcome Removing egg masses, which involves crushing or removing egg clusters from leaves before they hatch, prevents large numbers of larvae from emerging later in the season and reduces future infestation pressure. Budget −1 Pest pressure −2 {(set: $budget to $budget - 1) (set: $pest to $pest - 2) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $eggRemoval to true)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: Larval Sampling]]

Early Spray Decision You applied insecticide before larval thresholds were reached. This reduces beneficial insects and increases resistance risk. Budget −2 Resistance risk +1 Beneficial insects −1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: Larval Sampling]]

Stage 3: Larval Sampling <img src="https://extension.psu.edu/media/catalog/product/9/4/94d249579f45ea2d908328aa095cb87e.jpeg?quality=80&bg-color=255,255,255&fit=bounds&height=448&width=676&canvas=676:448" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Follow-up scouting occurs one week later. Newly hatched larvae feed together and can quickly defoliate plants if left untreated. Field sampling results: Plants sampled: 20 Plants with larvae: 11 Action threshold: treat if ≥10 plants contain larvae Choose: [[Continue monitoring->CPB Monitoring Continues]] [[Apply selective insecticide->Selective Insecticide Outcome]] [[Apply broad-spectrum insecticide->Broad-Spectrum Insecticide Outcome]]

Selective Insecticide Outcome Selective insecticide suppresses larvae while conserving most beneficial insects. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Beneficial insects −1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Stage 4: Second Emergence Wave]]

Broad-Spectrum Insecticide Outcome Broad-spectrum treatment suppresses larvae rapidly but reduces beneficial insect populations and increases resistance risk. Budget −3 Pest pressure −4 Beneficial insects −3 Resistance risk +2 {(set: $budget to $budget - 3) (set: $pest to $pest - 4) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 3) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 2)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Stage 4: Second Emergence Wave]]

Monitoring Continues Larval feeding continues and defoliation increases. Pest pressure +2 (set: $pest to $pest + 2) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Stage 4: Second Emergence Wave]]

Stage 4: Second Emergence Wave <img src="https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/radicalbugs/images/pests/larva/16c_ColoPotaLarvaeHatching.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Eggs laid earlier can hatch later, and additional adults can continue moving into the field from nearby overwintering sites. Later hatching from remaining egg masses or immigrating adults increases infestation pressure in many fields. { (if: $eggRemoval is true)[ Because egg masses were removed earlier in the season, fewer larvae emerged during this second wave of development. Therefore, no additional pest pressure increase ] (if: $eggRemoval is false)[ Egg masses remained in the field earlier in the season. Therefore, pest pressure increases as this second emergence wave develops. Pest pressure +2 (set: $pest to $pest + 2) ] } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield { (if: $pest >= 5)[ [[Pest pressure >= 5, infestation now exceeds threshold->CPB Threshold Exceeded]] ] (if: $pest < 5)[ [[Pest pressure < 5, populations remain below threshold->CPB Threshold Not Reached]] ] }

Threshold Exceeded Infestation now exceeds the action threshold and additional intervention is justified. Choose: [[Continue monitoring despite threshold->CPB Monitoring Despite Threshold]] [[Reuse previous insecticide class->Repeated Insecticide Class Outcome]] [[Rotate insecticide class->Rotated Insecticide Class Outcome]]

Threshold Not Reached Populations remain below action thresholds. Beneficial insects continue contributing to suppression. <img src="https://www.bloomatree.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-72.png" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Beneficial insects +1 (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to CPB Harvest Outcome]]

Rotated Insecticide Class Outcome Rotating insecticide classes suppresses larvae while reducing resistance selection pressure. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to CPB Harvest Outcome]]

Repeated Insecticide Class Outcome Reusing the same insecticide class suppresses larvae but substantially increases resistance risk. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +3 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 3)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to CPB Harvest Outcome]]

Harvest Outcome The growing season concludes. Evaluate how your management decisions influenced pest pressure, beneficial insects, resistance risk, and yield protection. <img src="https://spudsmart.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Potato-harvest-2017-copy.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Final values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield {(set: $finalScore to $yield + $beneficial - $resistance - $pest + $budget)} Final score calculation: Yield + Budget + Beneficial insects - Resistance risk - Pest pressure Your total Sustainability score = $finalScore Performance interpretation: { (if: $finalScore >= 12)[ Excellent IPM management ] }{ (if: $finalScore >= 8 and $finalScore <= 11)[ Moderate IPM success ] }{ (if: $finalScore <= 7)[ Room for IPM Improvement. Control strategy created long-term management risks. ] } [[Return to Scenario Selection->Start]]

Monitoring Despite Threshold Feeding continues and plant injury increases, reducing yield potential. Yield −2 Pest pressure +2 {(set: $yield to $yield - 2) (set: $pest to $pest + 2)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to CPB Harvest Outcome]]

Stage 1: Pre-Ripening Monitoring Decision <img src="https://media.istockphoto.com/id/2223937064/photo/unripe-green-blueberries-on-bush-in-sunlit-garden.jpg?s=612x612&w=0&k=20&c=ZdLJjmPXMfEx8Z62HbrvSDyVI5gdaR3Gg-28enkaEr4=" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Before fruit begins to color, Extension specialists recommend monitoring adult SWD activity to guide spray timing decisions. Choose ONE: [[Wait until fruit begins ripening before monitoring->SWD Delayed Monitoring Outcome]] [[Begin preventive insecticide program immediately->SWD Preventive Calendar Spray Outcome]] [[Deploy monitoring traps before fruit begins to color->SWD Early Trap Deployment Outcome]]

Delayed Monitoring Outcome Waiting to deploy traps delays detection of SWD arrival in the field. Because SWD populations can increase quickly once fruit begins to ripen, delayed monitoring increases the risk that infestations will begin before management actions are taken. Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2B: SWD Trap Monitoring (Late Trap Field)]]

Preventive Calendar Spray Outcome Beginning sprays before confirming SWD activity and before fruit becomes susceptible increases costs without improving protection. Calendar-based spraying can also reduce beneficial insects that help suppress other pests and increases resistance selection pressure in SWD populations later in the season. Budget −2 Resistance risk +1 Beneficial insects −1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2C: SWD Trap Monitoring (Calendar Spray Field)]]

Early Trap Deployment Outcome Deploying traps early improves your ability to detect SWD arrival before fruit becomes vulnerable. Early detection helps ensure that sprays are applied only when they are needed and reduces unnecessary pesticide exposure. Pest pressure −1 {(set: $pest to $pest - 1) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2A: SWD Trap Monitoring (Early Trap Field)]]

Stage 2A Trap Monitoring (Early Trap Field) <img src="https://www.ncipmc.org/wp-content/uploads/spottedwing-drosophila-trap-raspberry-web-1.png" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Monitoring traps, which use an attractant to lure adult flies into a collection cup, are placed along the field edge capture adult SWD moving into the planting. These traps help determine whether flies are present before fruit becomes vulnerable to egg laying. Trap results: Traps deployed: 4 Flies captured: 2 total Low captures indicate SWD adults are present but populations are still developing. At this stage, monitoring guides preparation rather than immediate treatment decisions. Choose: [[Continue monitoring->SWD Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Begin spraying immediately->SWD Early Spray Decision]] [[Increase sanitation effort by removing overripe or damaged fruit->SWD Sanitation Improvement Outcome]]

Stage 2B Trap Monitoring (Late Trap Field) <img src="https://www.ncipmc.org/wp-content/uploads/spottedwing-drosophila-trap-raspberry-web-1.png" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Monitoring traps, which use an attractant to lure adult flies into a collection cup, are placed along the field edge capture adult SWD moving into the planting. Because traps were deployed later, early population buildup may already have begun before detection. Trap results: Traps deployed: 4 Flies captured: 2 total Choose: [[Continue monitoring->SWD Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Begin spraying immediately->SWD Early Spray Decision]] [[Increase sanitation effort by removing overripe or damaged fruit->SWD Sanitation Improvement Outcome]]

Stage 2C Trap Monitoring (Calendar Spray Field) <img src="https://www.ncipmc.org/wp-content/uploads/spottedwing-drosophila-trap-raspberry-web-1.png" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Monitoring traps, which use an attractant to lure adult flies into a collection cup, confirm that SWD adults are present in the field. Because preventive sprays were already applied earlier, this information now helps determine whether continued treatment is necessary. Trap results: Traps deployed: 4 Flies captured: 2 total Choose: [[Continue monitoring->SWD Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Begin spraying immediately->SWD Early Spray Decision]] [[Increase sanitation effort by removing overripe or damaged fruit->SWD Sanitation Improvement Outcome]]

Monitoring Decision Outcome You continue monitoring trap captures without unnecessary early spraying. Maintaining monitoring improves decision timing and helps conserve beneficial insects that support pest suppression. <img src="https://i0.wp.com/entomologytoday.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/spotted-wing-drosophila-trap.jpg?fit=750%2C1000&ssl=1" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Beneficial insects +1 (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: SWD Fruit Susceptibility Window Begins]]

Early Spray Decision You applied insecticide before fruit became susceptible to SWD egg laying. This increases resistance selection pressure and reduces beneficial insect populations without providing strong protection benefits at this stage. Budget −2 Resistance risk +1 Beneficial insects −1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: SWD Fruit Susceptibility Window Begins]]

Sanitation Improvement Outcome Removing overripe or fallen fruit reduces the number of sites where SWD can reproduce. Fewer successful larvae developing early in the season reduces the number of adults emerging later during harvest. <img src="https://joegardener.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/DSC_0075-708x466.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Pest pressure −1 {(set: $pest to $pest - 1) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $sanitationEarly to true)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: SWD Fruit Susceptibility Window Begins]]

Stage 3: Fruit Susceptibility Window Begins <img src="https://www.canr.msu.edu/contentAsset/image/cedde3b1-60aa-4589-8359-7d7e46d036a4/fileAsset/filter/Resize/resize_w/500" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> ^Close-up of serrated SWD ovipositor Follow-up monitoring shows increasing SWD captures as fruit begins to change color. At this stage, the softer skin on ripening berries become suitable for egg laying. Field observations: Fruit stage: 40% color change Trap captures increasing Choose: [[Begin targeted spray program->SWD Targeted Spray Program Outcome]] [[Increase sanitation only->SWD Sanitation-Only Strategy Outcome]] [[Continue monitoring->SWD Monitoring Despite Susceptible Fruit]]

Targeted Spray Program Outcome Beginning sprays during the susceptible fruit window protects ripening berries from egg laying and larval development. Correct timing improves fruit quality and reduces infestation risk. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 4: SWD Harvest Interval Sanitation Decision]]

Sanitation-Only Strategy Outcome Sanitation continues to reduce reproduction sites, but once fruit becomes susceptible, sanitation alone cannot fully prevent egg laying inside marketable berries. Additional protection is usually needed at this stage. <img src="https://joegardener.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/DSC_0075-708x466.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Pest pressure −1 {(set: $pest to $pest - 1) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 4: SWD Harvest Interval Sanitation Decision]]

Monitoring Despite Susceptible Fruit Delaying treatment after fruit becomes susceptible allows SWD females to lay eggs inside ripening berries. Larval feeding inside fruit reduces marketable yield. <img src="https://i0.wp.com/entomologytoday.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/spotted-wing-drosophila-trap.jpg?fit=750%2C1000&ssl=1" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Yield −2 Pest pressure +2 (set: $yield to $yield - 2) (set: $pest to $pest + 2) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 4: SWD Harvest Interval Sanitation Decision]]

Stage 4: Harvest Interval Sanitation Decision During harvest, berries that remain in the field after picking can quickly become breeding sites for SWD. Larvae developing in leftover fruit can emerge and reinfest nearby ripening berries within the same week. <img src="https://fieldguide.bcblueberry.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/SWD-larvae.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> { (if: $sanitationEarly is true)[ Earlier sanitation efforts reduced early reproduction sites in the field. As a result, fewer SWD adults are contributing to reinfestation pressure during harvest. ] (if: $sanitationEarly is false)[ Earlier sanitation was limited, allowing additional SWD reproduction before harvest. These earlier generations now contribute to reinfestation pressure during harvest. ] } Choose: [[Remove overripe fruit frequently->SWD Frequent Sanitation Outcome]] [[Harvest normally->SWD Normal Harvest Outcome]] [[Leave dropped fruit in rows->SWD Poor Sanitation Outcome]]

Frequent Sanitation Outcome Frequent removal of leftover fruit reduces reproduction sites and slows population growth during harvest. This improves late-season infestation control. Pest pressure −2 Beneficial insects +1 {(set: $pest to $pest - 2) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 5: SWD Late-Season Infestation Check]]

Normal Harvest Outcome Standard harvest removes most marketable fruit but usually leaves some overripe berries behind. These remaining berries act as fly breeding sites and allow SWD populations to persist at moderate levels during harvest. Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 5: SWD Late-Season Infestation Check]]

Poor Sanitation Outcome Leaving dropped fruit in the field provides abundant sites for SWD reproduction. Populations increase rapidly under these conditions. Pest pressure +2 (set: $pest to $pest + 2) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 5: SWD Late-Season Infestation Check]]

Late-Season Infestation Check SWD populations can continue increasing throughout harvest if conditions remain favorable. Late-season monitoring helps determine whether additional intervention is needed to protect remaining fruit. { (if: $pest >= 5)[ [[Pest pressure >= 5, infestation levels justify additional intervention->SWD Late-Season Intervention Decision]] ] (if: $pest < 5)[ [[Pest pressure < 5, populations remain below treatment levels->SWD Threshold Not Reached]] ] }

Late-Season Intervention Decision Infestation levels justify additional intervention to protect remaining fruit. Choose: [[Rotate insecticide class->SWD Rotated Insecticide Class Outcome]] [[Reuse previous insecticide class->SWD Repeated Insecticide Class Outcome]] [[Continue monitoring despite infestation->SWD Monitoring Despite Infestation]]

Threshold Not Reached Populations remain below treatment levels. Beneficial insects continue contributing to suppression of SWD populations. Beneficial insects +1 (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: SWD]]

Rotated Insecticide Class Outcome Rotating insecticide classes suppresses SWD populations while reducing resistance selection pressure. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: SWD]]

Repeated Insecticide Class Outcome Reusing the same insecticide class suppresses SWD populations but substantially increases resistance selection pressure. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +3 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 3)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: SWD]]

Monitoring Despite Infestation Continuing to monitor without intervention allows infestation to increase and reduces remaining fruit quality. Yield −2 Pest pressure +2 {(set: $yield to $yield - 2) (set: $pest to $pest + 2)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: SWD]]

Harvest Outcome The growing season concludes. Evaluate how your management decisions influenced pest pressure, beneficial insects, resistance risk, and yield protection. <img src="https://wildblueberries.com/wp-content/uploads/blogger/-T7bTqutbPkk/UguPLImJfmI/AAAAAAAABwA/jVHqIlvZtxM/s1600/wb+harvest+three.jpeg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Final values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield {(set: $finalScore to $yield + $beneficial - $resistance - $pest + $budget)} Final score calculation: Yield + Budget + Beneficial insects - Resistance risk - Pest pressure Your total Sustainability score = $finalScore Performance interpretation: { (if: $finalScore >= 12)[ Excellent IPM management ] }{ (if: $finalScore >= 8 and $finalScore <= 11)[ Moderate IPM success ] }{ (if: $finalScore <= 7)[ Room for IPM Improvement. Control strategy created long-term management risks. ] } [[Return to Scenario Selection->Start]]

Stage 1: Initial Scouting Strategy <img src="https://cdn.britannica.com/30/174830-050-779DE460/Field-soybeans-farm-Oklahoma.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Extension specialists recommend scouting soybean field edges first when BMSB activity is expected in the surrounding landscape. Because stink bugs often colonize from outside the field inward, early detection along field margins improves management timing. Choose ONE: [[Scout only the interior of the field->BMSB Interior Scouting Outcome]] [[Apply a whole-field preventive insecticide spray immediately->BMSB Preventive Whole-Field Spray Outcome]] [[Scout field edges first using sweep net samples->BMSB Edge Scouting Outcome]]

Interior Scouting Outcome Sampling only the interior of the field misses early stink bug movement along field margins. Because BMSB populations usually build first near edges, early infestations may remain undetected until they become more widespread. Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2B: BMSB Interior Sweep Sampling Results]]

Preventive Whole-Field Spray Outcome Applying a whole-field insecticide spray before confirming infestation increases treatment costs and exposes beneficial insects unnecessarily. Early preventive spraying can also increase resistance selection pressure in stink bug populations later in the season. Budget −2 Resistance risk +1 Beneficial insects −1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2C: BMSB Sweep Sampling After Preventive Spray]]

Edge Scouting Outcome Sweep net sampling along the field edge detects early stink bug movement entering from nearby wooded habitat. Detecting edge populations early allows you to respond before insects spread throughout the entire field. Pest pressure −1 {(set: $pest to $pest - 1) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 2A: BMSB Edge Sweep Sampling Results]]

Stage 2A Edge Sweep Sampling Results <img src="https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2024-11/AGN_2024_November_StinkBugs_Zobel.jpg?itok=Owa3_nbk" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Sweep net sampling is conducted along soybean field edges where stink bugs typically arrive first. Captures below the threshold indicate populations are present but not yet causing economic injury. Field sampling results: Sweeps taken: 15 Stink bugs captured: 3 Action threshold: treat if ≥5 stink bugs detected Choose: [[Apply a whole-field insecticide spray immediately->BMSB Whole-Field Spray Below Threshold Outcome]] [[Continue monitoring edge populations->BMSB Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Apply a perimeter-only insecticide spray along field edges->BMSB Perimeter Spray Outcome]]

Stage 2B Interior Sweep Sampling Results <img src="https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2024-11/AGN_2024_November_StinkBugs_Zobel.jpg?itok=Owa3_nbk" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Sweep net sampling is conducted in the interior portion of the field rather than along edges where stink bugs usually arrive first. Field sampling results: Sweeps taken: 15 Stink bugs captured: 3 Action threshold: treat if ≥5 stink bugs detected Choose: [[Continue monitoring interior populations->BMSB Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Apply a perimeter-only insecticide spray along field edges->BMSB Perimeter Spray Outcome]] [[Apply a whole-field insecticide spray immediately->BMSB Whole-Field Spray Below Threshold Outcome]]

Stage 2C Sweep Sampling After Preventive Spray <img src="https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2024-11/AGN_2024_November_StinkBugs_Zobel.jpg?itok=Owa3_nbk" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Follow-up sweep sampling evaluates whether stink bug populations remain active after the earlier preventive spray. Field sampling results: Sweeps taken: 15 Stink bugs captured: 3 Action threshold: treat if ≥5 stink bugs detected Choose: [[Continue monitoring populations->BMSB Monitoring Decision Outcome]] [[Apply a perimeter-only insecticide spray along field edges->BMSB Perimeter Spray Outcome]] [[Apply another whole-field insecticide spray immediately->BMSB Whole-Field Spray Below Threshold Outcome]]

Monitoring Decision Outcome Continuing to monitor populations below action threshold avoids unnecessary insecticide exposure and allows beneficial insects to contribute to natural pest suppression. Beneficial insects +1 (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: BMSB Pod-Fill Sweep Sampling Results]]

Perimeter Spray Outcome A perimeter spray targets stink bugs concentrated along field edges without treating the entire field. Because BMSB often remain aggregated near margins early in the invasion process, edge-directed sprays can suppress populations while reducing treatment cost and conserving beneficial insects in the field interior. Budget −1 Pest pressure −2 {(set: $budget to $budget - 1) (set: $pest to $pest - 2) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $edgeSuppression to true)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: BMSB Pod-Fill Sweep Sampling Results]]

Whole-Field Spray Below Threshold Outcome Applying a whole-field spray before threshold levels are reached suppresses stink bug numbers but increases treatment costs and resistance selection pressure while reducing beneficial insect populations unnecessarily. Budget −2 Resistance risk +1 Beneficial insects −1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1) (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 1) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ]} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 3: BMSB Pod-Fill Sweep Sampling Results]]

Stage 3 Pod-Fill Sweep Sampling Results <img src="https://eu-images.contentstack.com/v3/assets/bltdd43779342bd9107/blt51987865aec0d03c/638f7b3dc9a7567df407f17c/1007F1-3451-1540x800.jpg?width=1280&auto=webp&quality=80&disable=upscale" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Follow-up sweep sampling occurs during pod-fill, the growth stage when stink bug feeding can most strongly affect soybean yield quality. Field sampling results: Sweeps taken: 15 Stink bugs captured: 7 Action threshold: treat if ≥5 stink bugs detected Choose: [[Apply a perimeter-only insecticide spray->BMSB Perimeter Spray After Threshold Outcome]] [[Apply a whole-field insecticide spray->BMSB Whole-Field Spray After Threshold Outcome]] [[Continue monitoring->BMSB Monitoring Despite Threshold Outcome]]

Monitoring Despite Threshold Outcome Allowing stink bug populations to remain above action threshold during pod fill permits continued feeding injury to developing soybean seeds, reducing yield potential. Yield −2 Pest pressure +2 {(set: $yield to $yield - 2) (set: $pest to $pest + 2)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 4: BMSB Continued Immigration from Field Edges]]

Perimeter Spray After Threshold Outcome Applying a perimeter spray targets edge-concentrated stink bug populations during early spread into the field interior. This approach can suppress populations efficiently when edge aggregation remains strong. Budget −1 Pest pressure −3 {(set: $budget to $budget - 1) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $edgeSuppression to true)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 4: BMSB Continued Immigration from Field Edges]]

Whole-Field Spray After Threshold Outcome Applying a whole-field spray suppresses stink bug populations throughout the entire field but increases treatment cost and reduces beneficial insect populations while increasing resistance selection pressure. Budget −3 Pest pressure −4 Beneficial insects −2 Resistance risk +2 {(set: $budget to $budget - 3) (set: $pest to $pest - 4) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $beneficial to $beneficial - 2) (if: $beneficial < 0)[ (set: $beneficial to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 2)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Go to Stage 4: BMSB Continued Immigration from Field Edges]]

Stage 4 Continued Immigration from Field Edges <img src="https://entomologytoday.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/brown-marmorated-stink-bug-on-soybean-pod.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Even after treatment, additional stink bugs may continue moving into soybean fields from nearby wooded habitat and overwintering sites. Fields without effective edge suppression often experience continued reinvasion. { (if: $edgeSuppression is true)[ Because perimeter sprays were applied earlier, stink bug movement from nearby field margins has been partially suppressed. Additional immigration pressure remains limited at this stage. ] (if: $edgeSuppression is false)[ Perimeter populations were not suppressed earlier in the season. Additional stink bugs are now moving into the field from nearby wooded habitat. Pest pressure +2 (set: $pest to $pest + 2) ] } Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield { (if: $pest >= 5)[ [[Pest pressure >=5, infestation now exceeds treatment threshold->BMSB Late-Season Treatment Decision]] ] (if: $pest < 5)[ [[Pest pressure < 5, populations remain below treatment threshold->BMSB Late-Season Monitoring Outcome]] ] }

Late-Season Treatment Decision <img src="https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/newsletters/pestandcrop/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2021/10/Figure-1-Fred-Whitford.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Continued stink bug activity justifies an additional management decision to protect remaining yield potential. Choose: [[Continue monitoring without additional treatment->BMSB Monitoring Despite Continued Infestation]] [[Rotate insecticide class to slow the development of resistance->BMSB Rotated Insecticide Class Outcome]] [[Reuse the same insecticide class as before->BMSB Repeated Insecticide Class Outcome]]

Late-Season Monitoring Outcome <img src="https://www.cabi.org/wp-content/uploads/project-images/Trissolcus-parasitoids-attacking-halyomorpha-eggs-1200x795.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Stink bug populations remain below treatment threshold levels late in the season. Beneficial insects continue contributing to suppression of remaining pests. Beneficial insects +1 (set: $beneficial to $beneficial + 1) Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: BMSB]]

Rotated Insecticide Class Outcome Rotating insecticide classes reduces resistance selection pressure while suppressing remaining stink bug populations late in the season. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +1 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 1)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: BMSB]]

Repeated Insecticide Class Outcome Reusing the same insecticide class suppresses stink bug populations but increases resistance selection pressure that may reduce effectiveness in future seasons. Budget −2 Pest pressure −3 Resistance risk +3 {(set: $budget to $budget - 2) (set: $pest to $pest - 3) (if: $pest < 0)[ (set: $pest to 0) ] (set: $resistance to $resistance + 3)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: BMSB]]

Monitoring Despite Continued Infestation Continuing to monitor without treatment allows stink bug feeding injury to continue affecting developing soybean seeds late in the season. Yield −2 Pest pressure +2 {(set: $yield to $yield - 2) (set: $pest to $pest + 2)} Current values: Pest pressure = $pest Beneficial insects = $beneficial Budget = $budget Resistance risk = $resistance Yield = $yield [[Proceed to Harvest Outcome: BMSB]]

Harvest Outcome The growing season concludes. Evaluate how your management decisions influenced pest pressure, beneficial insects, resistance risk, and yield protection. <img src="https://www.iasoybeans.com/filesimages/Newsroom/articles-images/2024/08%20August/2024%208-23%20Soybeans.jpg" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin:auto;"> Final values: Final Yield = $yield Final Budget = $budget Final Beneficial insects = $beneficial Final Resistance risk = $resistance (set: $finalScore to $yield + $beneficial - $resistance - (10 - $budget)) Sustainability Score = $finalScore { (if: $finalScore >= 12)[ Final score >= 12: Excellent IPM strategy. Your decisions protected yield while conserving beneficial insects and minimizing resistance risk and unnecessary treatment costs. ] } { (if: $finalScore >= 8 and $finalScore <= 11)[ Final score 8-11: Moderate IPM performance. Some decisions increased resistance risk, treatment costs, or reduced biological control effectiveness. ] } { (if: $finalScore <= 7)[ Final score <= 7: Room for IPM improvment. Management decisions reduced IPM effectiveness. Earlier threshold-based decisions or selective treatments may have improved outcomes. ] } [[Return to Scenario Selection->Start]]