Softening Shock and Awe Pest Management in Corn and Soybean Production with IPM Principles

The trend in U.S. corn (Zea Mays) and soybean (Glycine max) crop protection over the past two decades is toward a one-size-fits-all approach that links farmers’ insect, weed, and disease management decisions. With re-emerging pest management concerns that include herbicide resistant weeds, Bt-resistant insects, and declines in some pollinator and butterfly populations, it is an opportune time to reflect on how integrated pest management (IPM) principles may be further incorporated into this trend. The purpose of this article is to detail the current trend in corn and soybean crop protection, compare this trend with IPM, and propose ways in which IPM principles can be used to make current corn and soybean crop protection practices more sustainable and resilient.