Oregon State University to add slug researcher

Oregon farmers are getting some help in their fight against crop-devouring slugs

The Capital Press reports Oregon State University plans to recruit an entomologist who specializes in slug research as part of a broader hiring spree made possible with extra money from state lawmakers.

Farmers are saying the pests have grown more problematic in recent years. Theories about why that is include reduced tillage and restrictions on field burning. Concrete proof is scant, however.

The new research position will focus on the best ways to kill slugs or disrupt their life cycle.

The Legislature recently approved $14 million in additional funding for OSU's agricultural experiment stations, extension service and forest laboratory over the next two years.