By Andi Anderson
Soybean gall midge continues to spread across the Midwest, with new confirmations in 2025 showing the pest now present in more than half of Iowa’s counties.
Researchers report that larvae have been detected in five additional Iowa counties this year: Union, Clarke, Tama, Poweshiek, and Grundy. These detections bring the total number of infested counties in the state to 56.
The insect, which damages soybean stems and causes plant death, is now known to occur in 185 counties across seven Midwestern states.
Farmers, agronomists, and researchers are closely monitoring its distribution, and producers are encouraged to report any suspected sightings in new areas to university entomology labs for confirmation.
“This pest is spreading rapidly, and every new detection helps us understand the scale of the issue,” researchers noted. Farmers are asked to send photos and field location details if they find gall midge symptoms in counties not yet documented on the official distribution map.
Despite its expansion, there are currently no research-based management recommendations available for soybean gall midge. Studies are underway to identify strategies that may help mitigate its impact, but for now, the best defense is awareness and accurate reporting.
Growers can find resources, including detailed descriptions of the pest and signs of infestation, in the soybean gall midge encyclopedia article. Additional insights from ongoing research and updates on management efforts are available through webinar recordings hosted on the soybean gall midge website.
The confirmation of soybean gall midge in new Iowa counties serves as a reminder of the challenges facing soybean producers. With more than half the state now affected, farmers are urged to stay informed and vigilant as research continues to search for effective solutions.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Soybeans