Locust plague response in San Luis Potosí

The government of San Luis Potosí has initiated an emergency operation to combat the presence of the Central American locust (Schistocerca piceifrons) in the state’s Media region. Under the direction of Governor Ricardo Gallardo Cardona, the Secretariat of Agricultural Development and Hydraulic Resources (Sedarh) is coordinating with federal authorities, such as Senasica, to detect and control the pest.

Specialized technical brigades are performing nocturnal patrols to locate and contain locust swarms, referred to as “mangas,” in an effort to minimize damage to crops. These operations are concentrated in the municipalities of Lagunillas, Santa Catarina, Rayón, and Tamasopo, specifically targeting areas like Pinihuan and the La Palma sierra. Monitoring efforts are focused on protecting agricultural products including corn, squash, and orange.

As the plague has moved from the Huasteca region into the Zona Media, Sedarh has deployed four specialized brigades to monitor approximately 700 hectares, including the Pinihuan canyon and Los Guayabitos. Control measures now include the use of drones and spray pumps for localized intervention. While a sanitary cordon between Rayón, Lagunillas, and San Ciro de Acosta has helped prevent the pests from reaching the agricultural valleys of Rioverde and Ciudad Fernández, officials remain concerned about the long-term impact of locust eggs that can remain buried in the soil for years.

Agricultural damage has been reported in small plots, particularly involving corn crops in Santa Catarina that were already stressed by water shortages. Officials are urging residents to report sightings of small insects before they are able to fly to ensure early intervention.