Insects and disease don’t wait for perfect weather. As Illinois enters peak growing season, farmers across the state—especially in central and east-central counties—are already seeing signs of serious threats to their corn and soybean crops.

This year, reports of Japanese beetles, corn leaf aphids, tar spot, and spider mites are surfacing earlier than expected. With warm, wet weather patterns and high humidity setting the stage, pest and fungal pressure could ramp up quickly through late July and August.

But here’s the critical question: If these pests hit your fields hard, will your insurance help you recover?

What’s Hitting Illinois Fields Right Now?

According to recent updates from the University of Illinois Extension Insect Guide and the Illinois Crop Protection podcast, here’s what farmers should be watching for:

• Tar Spot: Found in early scouting near Champaign and Douglas counties. This fungal disease spreads fast in humid weather and can cause significant yield loss if untreated.

• Japanese Beetles: Populations are already present in east-central Illinois. They feed on corn silks and soybean foliage.

• Corn Leaf Aphids: Especially dangerous in tasseling corn. Heavy infestations can reduce grain fill and impact final yields.

• Two-Spotted Spider Mites: Emerging due to heat stress. Thrive in dry pockets and can turn soybean fields bronze quickly.

These aren’t isolated issues. With many fields planted late and early-season conditions being mixed, crops are vulnerable—and that makes timing and documentation crucial.

What Crop Insurance Actually Covers

If you have a Multi-Peril Crop Insurance (MPCI) policy through Loman-Ray, you may already be protected—but only if you take the right steps:

MPCI policies (and their Revenue Protection or Yield Protection variations) typically cover yield losses caused by pests and disease as long as:

• The damage is due to natural, unavoidable causes

• You followed recognized pest control practices

• You report the damage immediately when discovered

What’s NOT covered:

• Losses caused by neglect or failure to treat

• Delays in reporting the issue to your insurance provider or agent

• Damage that can’t be verified by an adjuster

How to Protect Your Crops and Your Claim

Here’s how to ensure your coverage works for you:

• Scout regularly. Don’t wait for visible damage. Early detection helps treatment and claim eligibility.

• Document everything. Photos, field maps, treatment receipts, and pest pressure notes can all help.

• Contact your Loman-Ray agent immediately if you notice significant pest or disease impact.

• Follow label rates and timing when applying fungicides or insecticides—cutting corners could void coverage.

Stay Ahead of the Swarm

Bug season in Illinois is here, and this year could be worse than most. But with a solid crop insurance plan—and a responsive, knowledgeable agent—you can stay ahead of the damage and protect your harvest.

At Loman-Ray Insurance Group, we don’t just sell policies. We walk fields, watch weather, and help farmers build protection that works in the real world.

Need help understanding what’s covered? Noticed signs of damage?

Call us today at 888-566-2679, or visit your local Loman-Ray agent. Let’s make sure your coverage is working as hard as you are.