1998 Dry Bean Grower Survey
of Pest Problems and Pesticide Use in Minnesota and North Dakota

    This is the eleventh annual survey of pest problems, pesticide use and grower practices of the Northarvest
Bean Growers Association, an association of dry bean growers in Minnesota and North Dakota. Results of
previous surveys dated 1987-1997 have been published (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11). There was no survey in 1993.

    The survey form (Figure 1, pages 3-4) was developed by research and extension faculty at North Dakota
State University and the University of Minnesota and the directors of the Northarvest Bean Growers Association.
The survey was completed by attendees at the Northarvest Bean Day in Fargo, ND on January 22, 1999.
This was the second time that a survey was conducted at Bean Day. Surveys in previous years were mailed
to all Northarvest growers. The surveys were anonymous.

    Throughout this report, trade names of chemicals are often presented as an aid to clearer communication.
Mention of trade names does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by NDSU nor Northarvest
Bean Growers.

    Frequent comparisons are made in this report between the 1998 survey and the 1997 survey. Weather
conditions varied between the two years; June rainfall was greater throughout most of the growing area in
1998 than in 1997, but July rainfall was greater in 1997. June rainfall affects early season disease and weed
problems, but July rainfall is critical for the development of white mold. Results of the two surveys reflect
these differences. The 1997 survey is listed in the references (9) and will not be referenced specifically each
time it is mentioned in the text.