Agriculture

Researchers release parasitoid wasps to combat invasive beetles

Wed, 2026-09-09 05:33

By Demonte Thomas Michigan State University researchers have launched a long-term effort to combat the invasive scarlet lily beetle, using specialized wasps instead of pesticides to reduce populations of the destructive garden pest.

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Historical forest biodiversity changes conservation efforts

Sun, 2026-09-06 05:51

Great Lakes Echo

By Akia Thrower A recent study uncovers the changes within historical tree biodiversity hotspots, which has implications for new conservation efforts in forested areas of concern.

How scientists predict Lake Erie’s harmful algal blooms months before they appear

Sat, 2026-09-05 06:20

Great Lakes Echo

By Julia Roeder Scientists can begin predicting algal blooms weeks before they become visible in the spring.

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Kestrels help farmers protect crops and improve food safety, study finds

Tue, 2026-08-25 12:53

Great Lakes Echo

By Kyrmyzy Turebayeva Pest birds are a nuisance for cherry orchards. A recent study found a possible solution: attracting kestrels to nest nearby.

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It’s time for ‘corn sweat’ as mid-summer hits

Sat, 2026-07-18 07:13

Great Lakes Echo

By Demonte Thomas During the summer, corn undergoes a process called evapotranspiration, known by many as "corn sweat" to cool itself down. It raises questions about whether the state's vast corn fields are making already hot and humid conditions even more uncomfortable.

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Invasive elm zigzag sawfly confirmed in Michigan

Mon, 2026-07-13 05:37

Great Lakes Echo

By Anna Barnes The invasive elm zigzag sawfly has been confirmed in Michigan for the first time.

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Excessive rainfall in Michigan may affect nutrients in soil amid fertilizer price increases

Mon, 2026-07-06 07:14

Great Lakes Echo

By Anna Barnes Michigan's supply of nitrogen and phosphorus-based fertilizers has taken a hit from shipping disruptions caused by the U.S. war with Iran. High prices and historic flooding are causing problems for the state's corn and soybean farmers.

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Pearce: ‘Agrivoltaics’ can power AI data centres, increase food production

Wed, 2026-07-01 00:51

The London Free Press

The use of land for both electricity generation and food production is a viable way to meet growing AI energy demands

‘The outlook is pretty bleak’: Farmers brace for difficult season

Tue, 2026-06-23 07:29

Great Lakes Echo

By Julia Roeder An April survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation found nearly 70% of U.S. farmers say they cannot afford fertilizer. It also found almost half of Midwestern farmers report they cannot afford all the supplies they need.