Obviously, if these pests are to be detected, the fields must be examined on a daily basis. Three or 4 maggots per kernel will destroy that kernel. In Saskatchewan, if 1 or more adult midges are observed for every 4-5 heads, insecticide treatment is recommended. Because barley and winter wheat are not as severely damaged as spring wheat, these crops may be grown in areas where infestations are low. Early seeding is recommended to help a crop to develop beyond the susceptible stage, before the flies emerge and begin egg-laying.
Farmers can seed alternate crops, including barley.
However, chemical management may also be necessary. Insecticides applied after flowering do not provide adequate control. It has both systemic and contact action usually with quick results. Furadan 480F is compatible with fungicides commonly used on the same crops. May be tank mixed with phenoxy ester or amine herbicides and used only on crops listed on both labels.