Kris Watson, Manager, State Entomologist, (801) 982-2311 (office), (801) 982-2313 (lab)
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.
State of Utah Insect Quarantines
- Emerald Ash Borer (EAB quarantine)
- European Corn Borer Quarantine
- Spongy Moth
- Karnal Bunt
- Japanese Beetle
- Utah Firewood Quarantine
Quarantine Fact Sheets
Problem Pests
- Mosquitoes – West Nile Virus
- Termites – Frequently Asked Questions
- Japanese Beetle – Eradication Efforts
- Grasshopper – Identification and Management
- Ticks – Lyme Disease
Reports
- 2023 UDAF Insect Report
- 2022 UDAF Insect Report
- 2021 UDAF Insect Report
- 2020 UDAF Insect Report
- 2019 UDAF Insect Report
Useful Contacts
- Utah Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey
- Utah Plant Pest Diagnostics Lab
- Utah Integrated Pest Management
- County Weed Supervisors
- Mosquito Abatement Districts
- Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health
Local Educational Links for Insects
- Utah Museum of Natural History Insect Collection
- Monte L. Bean Life Museum Arthropod Collection
- Utah State University Insect Collection
- Utah Lepidopterist Society
- Pollinating Insects Research Lab
