Threat to crops? Watch is on for grasshoppers

Experts are keeping a watchful eye on eastern Washington rangeland this spring, looking out for what could be a big year for grasshoppers.

“This could be a big year out around the Hooper country and also the breaks of the Snake River,” said Steven Van Vleet, WSU extension agent for Whitman County.

A large outbreak of grasshoppers could devour and damage grazing grasses and crops.

The university Friday issued a news release that warned the mild, dry spring created conditions for a massive grasshopper outbreak this summer.

Larry Skillestad, a technician for the USDA’s Plant Health Inspection Ser...