Ticker for December 20, 1999

                
MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ...
December 20, 1999  December 20, 1999  December 20, 1999  December 20, 1999


Alfalfa Weevil Model Running

It's mid-December, and that means the Oklahoma Alfalfa Weevil Model
has emerged from its autumn hibernation and is operational for the
1999-2000 alfalfa season.

The model simulates the reprduction and growth of the weevil and its
larvae, based on weather observations from the Oklahoma Mesonet.  As its
name suggests, the alfalfa weevil is a pest to the young alfalfa plant.

The Oklahoma Alfalfa Weevil Model is part of a suite of Mesonet-related
ag-weather models provided by the OSU Department of Agricultural Sciences
and Natural Resources, the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service and the
Oklahoma Mesonet.

This particular model will be "phased in" to full functionality over
December and January, as conditions become appropriate.  When fully
functional, the model provides text products and images related to
the weevil's reproductive conditions, links to "how-to" manuscripts
for scouting and managing the weevil, additional information and images,
and an interactive decision tool which is designed to assist the
alfalfa grower with pesticide application decisions.

The Oklahoma Alfalfa Weevil Model can be found at:
http://agweather.mesonet.org/models/alfalfa/alfalfa.html