Semester

Fall

Date of Graduation

2001

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design

Department

Agricultural & Extension Education

Committee Chair

Layle D. Lawrence.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to provide information that might be useful to researchers and extension personnel at West Virginia University in developing and designing educational programs concerning pest management for corn farmers. This research identified current trends in management practices, insect, fungal, and weed problems, and educational needs so that instructional materials can be designed to meet clientele needs. Data were collected via 100 questionnaires mailed to farmers in the top ten corn producing counties in West Virginia. Of these, thirty-three useable surveys were returned.;It was found that Gray leaf spot and Maize virus were the most prevalent diseases; Johnson grass, Pigweed and Fall panicum were the weeds most injurious; Corn borer, Stalk borer, and Root worms were the most injurious insects; and, of vertebrates, deer were the most common pests affecting West Virginia corn producers. Field inspections, cultivation, and use of pest thresholds were the most common control measures used by farmers.

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