Sugarcane aphid is a new pest of sorghum in the U.S.; it was first reported in Texas in 2013 and reached Fulton County, Kentucky in 2015.  This aphid builds up rapidly on sorghum and can kill plants through removal of plant sap with its piercing-sucking mouthparts.  Their numbers can double every 1 1/2 days.   In late summer of 2017 sweet sorghum growers in Bell County realized there was a problem.  Their cane fields were turning purple and dying. After field visits the ANR agent confirmed the presence of large numbers of sugarcane aphids.  The crop was a total loss.  Syrup production was greatly reduced and the final product was inedible.  All investment in the crop was lost.  In response to this situation growers participated in a sorghum production workshop at UK's RCARS center.  Preparations have been made to protect the next crop.  A private pesticide applicator training will be held for growers.  Scouting techniques will be followed closely.  The ANR agent worked with the Bell County Farm Bureau to secure funding for the  purchase of a backpack mist sprayer for producers to use during the upcoming season.