MOSCOW — A new online tool from the University of Idaho Extension is helping farmers across the state better protect crops, reduce unnecessary pesticide applications and save money by tracking how seasonal heat affects crop growth and pest development.

The Growing Degree Day Calculator, developed by Canyon County Extension educator Jemila Chellappa, uses daily temperature data to predict when key crops and insect pests reach critical growth stages. The calculator gives farmers science-based guidance on the best times to apply pesticides, irrigate or fertilize.

“For generations, farmers have turned to the calendar, but the calendar can’t tell you what the weather has or hasn’t done,” Chellappa said. “We now have a user-friendly, real-time tool to help farmers, researchers and advisors acr

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