In recent years, the so-called Mormon Crickets have cut through the region as massive swarms eating crops and even covering miles of roadway. Colorado’s western slope has seen the worst of the damage but the crickets did make their way into Uintah County as well. Public meetings have been scheduled in Moffat County for the purpose of discussing control plans for these crickets. Why are control measures taken? Mormon Crickets are considered a pest because they reduce feed for wildlife and livestock, and their numbers have been increasing in recent years. If their look isn’t creepy enough, note that they are also cannibals. They will not hesitate to eat each other, especially if there is a food shortage. Scientists think that their swarm behavior of constantly moving is to move to prevent themselves from being attacked and eaten from behind. They have also been known to create somewhat hazardous driving conditions when crossing a road. Last year, Highway 40 in Colorado had miles of red streaked road due to the swarms being run over. The first meeting will be held in Rangely on February 20th at 6pm in the Weiss Building and the second meeting will be held at the Meeker Fire Hall on February 21st at 6pm.
