I love flea beetles

Spotlight on a New Turf Threat: What Coachella Valley Golf Courses Need to Know

A year-long insect survey—backed by the Hi-Lo Desert Chapter—has uncovered an important finding for golf course superintendents, turf managers, and desert landscape professionals. The tiny but potentially disruptive Chaetocnema minuta flea beetle has now been confirmed on two major Coachella Valley golf courses.

Researchers monitored the insect’s seasonal activity across both warm- and cool‑season turf at Desert Willow and Indian Wells Golf Resorts. Using a combination of vacuum sampling and plug extractions on selected holes, the study mapped out when and where this pest is most active.

Why does this matter? Because early detection and understanding of pest behavior are the keys to protecting high‑value turf from damage—especially in a region where pristine playing conditions are a point of pride.

If you manage turf in the desert Southwest, this emerging pest should be on your radar. Stay tuned for the full report, insights from the field, and practical strategies to keep your course healthy, resilient, and tournament‑ready.

Curious about what this means for your facility or looking to get ahead of potential infestations? I can help you explore next steps.