SlugNet: 2026 Wisconsin Slug Monitoring Project

Welcome to the second year of the SlugNet project in Wisconsin, a new initiative aimed at monitoring slug populations across the state. This effort uses a citizen science approach, relying on the valuable contributions of participants across our state to collect slug population datain field crops, with a focus on conservation cropping systems (e.g., reduced tillage, cover crops).

UW-Madison Extension and external partners are tracking slug activity to identify patterns in their emergence and damage. The project’s goal is to understand the key factors that lead to severe slug outbreaks so we can help farmers take preventive steps—especially since current chemical control methods are limited. As planting gets underway, be prepared for slugs since we are working in wet and cool weather conditions.

The team will be regularly sharing updates on slug counts from participating counties and observations of feeding damage in this weekly article. In the first year of the project, the team is excited to gather as much data as possible.