In 2019 I identify and unknown species affecting alfalfa fields responding a request from Darrel Simpson a CEA of Muhlenberg. This was the immature form of a crane fly or Tipulidae called leatherjacket. This new pest is voracious, and able to feed on roots, shoots, and axillary and crown buds in early spring. Spring cuts of alfalfa are compromised due to stand decline, yield reduction and negative effects in subsequent cuts of recovered plants. Thanks to collaborative effort with Dr. Julian Dupuis (Insect systematics, genomics, population genomics in UK Entomology) and Dr. J. Gelhaus (Professor in the Department of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science at Drexel University in Pennsylvania and world authority in this group). This species was identified as Tipula paterifera using dichotomy keys and genomic information. Prior to our observations, no tipulids have been reported to cause significant damage to alfalfa. Currently we are in the process of writing a peer-reviewed article as well as looking for funding to support further studies in this pest