Sometimes the old-fashioned way proves a better method for insect and invasive plant control on crops. By using controlled burns, specific grazing methods and friendly insects, researchers across Kansas are seeing the benefits of instituting well-known practices alongside modern herbicides. Walter Fick and Keith Harmoney, both of Kansas State University, spoke at the annual Kansas Forage and Grassland Council Winter Forage Conference on Dec. 10. Fick, Ph.D., who is a KSU range management specialist, said invasive insects and plants attack crops due to infrequent fire, seed transportation by animals wind and water, extreme grazing by domestic livestock and decreased fertility in tame pastures.