University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension entomology experts say adult grasshopper numbers dropped last year in western Nebraska rangelands, so the odds are lower for 2012 outbreaks in many areas.

Average adult grasshopper numbers dropped from 17.8 a square yard in 2010 to 15.6 in 2011.

The 2012 risk is based on 2011 surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

Experts say the potential for high grasshopper numbers largely
is determined by food availability and rainfall.

Ample rain means healthy grass growth, which leads to fewer grasshopper problems.