FAYETTEVILLE, ARK. (RFD NEWS) — Native rice stink bugs may be small, but they cost farmers millions of dollars each year in crop losses and control costs. Now, researchers say new findings could help address one of the industry’s growing concerns: insecticide resistance.
Allen Szalanski from the University of Arkansas joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the pest’s impact on agriculture and why it continues to be a costly challenge for rice producers.
Szalanski explained the background of the Rice Stink Bug and outlined how infestations can affect crop quality and farmers’ profitabilityto help insecticides remain effective for longer periods. He also shared details from a new study that identified clues that could help researchers better understand how the pest develops resistance to insecticides.
According to Szalanski, those findings could eventually support new management strategies designed to help insecticides remain effective for longer periods of time. He also discussed the next steps in the research process as scientists continue studying the pest and potential control options.
From projected drops in input costs to biofuel expansion and the USDA’s new “One Farmer, One File” initiative, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins shared key policy priorities at Commodity Classic that put farm issues back in the spotlight.
February 27, 2026 11:32 AM
·
Liquidity management and cost control will matter most in 2026.
February 27, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Food demand is stable but price-sensitive across rural markets. For agriculture and rural communities, the important signal is not optimism — it is stability.
February 27, 2026 07:00 AM
·
At Commodity Classic in San Antonio, growers explore new herbicide options, John Deere’s latest 8 Series tractors, and cutting-edge ag technology shaping the 2026 planting season. Here are some of RFD NEWS’ highlights from the event so far.
February 26, 2026 02:57 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer provided insight on updated PLC rate estimates, the role of base acres, and the upcoming enrollment window for ARC and PLC programs.
February 26, 2026 02:42 PM
·
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch explains the importance of timely enrollment, and how the program helps dairy producers safeguard their operations against volatile milk markets.
February 26, 2026 02:25 PM
·
