There is probably no greater loss from insects in the state of Iowa than that which occurs in meadows and pastures and while the loss is not so conspicuous as in some crops because of its insidious nature and the fact that it is only occasionally that the whole or a large part is taken, it is only necessary to note that the half or probably more of the growth of grasses is devoured by insects regularly to realize that there is here an enormous drain on this crop.

This loss becomes conspicuous in dry years or when the insects greatly multiply and it is generally believed that in such years some conditions favor the great multiplication of insects, but this is largely due to the fact that at such times their work becomes apparent, while in ordinary seasons the natural growth of the grass is able to keep up and the plants appear fresh in spite of the drain they sustain. It is easy to see, however, that they must support this horde of insects and if the insects were not there this would go to making hay or to feeding stock in pasture.