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Researchers find solution for devastating wheat midge


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KALISPELL, Mont. (AP) — Scientists have developed a wheat variety that they say is resistant to wheat midge, which has caused millions of dollars in damage to Montana crops in the last 10 years.

The wheat midge is an orange insect the size of a mosquito that feeds on wheat kernels.

It has invaded 18 counties across the state, laying siege to the billion-dollar wheat industry.

The midge-resistant wheat variety developed by scientists at the Northwestern Agricultural Research Center in Creston is named "Egan" after Egan Slough, the epicenter of the original outbreak.

The resistance gene created in the laboratory near Kalispell is highly effective, resulting in almost complete mortality of the wheat midge and its larvae, according to scientists.

Spring wheat growers across Montana will be able to purchase the blend of wheat in 2016, the Flathead Beacon reports (http://bit.ly/1H6UgcU).

"The research here will save and help producers across the state," Charles Boyer, the vice president, dean and director of the Montana State University College of Agriculture, said.

The breakthrough in midge resistance illustrates the continuing legacy of the Creston facility, which is one of seven agricultural research centers across Montana devoted to helping the state's farmers and ranchers.

"These agricultural research centers were established to discover new knowledge and better products," MSU President Waded Cruzado said. "These centers are at the forefront of innovation and solving the problems of agriculture."

Established in 1947, the Creston research center operates on 225 acres with a faculty of researchers, professors and students. It operates as part of MSU's agricultural program.

Agriculture remains the largest industry in the state, generating roughly $4.7 billion annually. In the Kalispell region, the industry generates roughly $152 million in annual revenues, according to MSU. There are 1.11 million acres of farm and ranch land in Northwest Montana.

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Information from: Flathead Beacon, http://www.flatheadbeacon.com

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