Managing insects is essential to the Department’s mission to “Promote the healthy growth of Utah agriculture, conserve our natural resources and protect our food supply.”

Although most insects are beneficial, pest infestations can be devastating, and UDAF Plant Industry has been addressing insect issues since pioneer agriculture began here 160 years ago.

Some economic estimates of losses to U.S. food crops due to pests approach 40%. Both newly introduced insects and outbreaks of endemic species can cause sudden losses much like a natural disaster. Trends that contribute to this potential include erratic weather patterns and climate change, intensive monoculture farming methods, and global commerce, which commonly transports materials of risk great distances. The UDAF Plant Industry Insect Program aims to protect Utah agriculture, food, and quality of life from losses due to insects.