Agriculture Canada Releases European Moth to Eat Invasive Vines

Oct 02, 2013

Agriculture Canada Releases European Moth to Eat Invasive Vines

By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com

Agriculture Canada said it has approved the release of a European moth to eat invasive vines. The first group of moths have been released near Ottawa. About 500 insects have been discharged, which are supposed to eat ‘dog-strangling vine,’ an invasive weed from Europe.

The invasive species has taken over gardens and pasture land in North America. The vine is also toxic to livestock, which leaves the vine to spread further. The Hypena month is native to Ukraine and was tested in Switzerland and Rhode Island to see the impact it could have on our native plants and agricultural crops.

While the U.S. Department of Agriculture has not yet approved the release of the Hypena moth, it will likely spread there since they have been released in Canada. Scientists say it is unlikely that anything will go wrong with releasing the moth.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.