Fall Armyworms Active in Kansas: Intensify Turfgrass Scouting Efforts

By Teresa Roberts

Wednesday, July 29, 2026

By A.J. Lindsey, Ph.D., Kansas State University

July monitoring reports from the Great Lakes and Maritimes Pest Monitoring Network show that fall armyworm moths are active across Kansas, signaling that turfgrass managers should begin or intensify scouting efforts. Moths have been detected in numerous locations throughout the state, with some of the highest captures currently occurring in south-central Kansas. These captures serve as an early warning that egg-laying is occurring and that damaging larval populations may soon develop in turfgrass systems.

Figure 1. all armyworm moth captures reported through the Great Lakes and Maritimes Pest Monitoring Network during July 2026. Trap captures provide an early warning of fall armyworm activity and can help turfgrass managers identify periods when increased scouting is warranted. Data source: Great Lakes and Maritimes Pest Monitoring Network.

A recent K-State Turf and Landscape Newsletter article discussed identification, scouting techniques, and management options for fall armyworms as part of a broader review of summer insect pests. Rather than repeating that information, this article serves as a timely reminder for golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, lawn care professionals, sod producers, and grounds managers to intensify scouting efforts as we enter a period when outbreaks can develop rapidly. Additional information on fall armyworm identification, scouting methods, and management considerations can be found in the resources listed below.

Fall armyworm does not overwinter in Kansas. Each year, moths migrate northward and establish populations during the growing season. According to a recent K-State Extension

Entomology update, fall armyworm moths began arriving in Kansas during mid-June, and pheromone trap captures have continued to increase. These observations suggest that larval activity may increase throughout late summer, reinforcing the importance of regular scouting in commercial turfgrass systems.

For commercial turfgrass managers, now is the time to routinely scout susceptible turf areas. Increasing moth activity does not guarantee damage at a specific location, but it does indicate that conditions are favorable for infestations to develop.

Additional Resources

 

Have questions? Every Kansas county has a K-State Extension office ready to help with topics just like this. Find your local office at extension.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.