Scab risk still remains moderate to high on susceptible and moderately susceptible varieties for a large area in North Dakota. Scab risk for moderately resistant varieties is low, except for some areas along the Canadian border. The areas of the state with the greatest scab risk are the northern third of the state (north of Lake Sakakawea) and along the James River Valley. Extended dew periods, higher humidity and sporadic rain storms will continue this week and likely keep scab risk elevated for the next five to seven days. Continue to monitor growth stages in your small grain fields and check susceptibility ratings for your varieties in the NDSU hard red spring wheat and durum variety selection guides.

--Andrew Friskop, Associate Professor and Cereal Extension Pathologist, North Dakota State University