Controlling Colorado Potato Beetle (CPB) organically can be challenging as the bugs have developed resistance to the many pesticide options available on the market. Lack of control has persuaded some farms to stop growing potatoes altogether.

This bug has been a challenge for centuries. As seen in the Prince Edward Island (PEI) historical museum, this antique device from the 1890’s was human powered and used physical force to knock the bugs off the plants. This machine was called the Hunter Bug Picker.

Fundamental Design

The basic approach to developing a better beetle beater includes the following:

Rolling structure – Square stock toolbar with 3pt hitch mounted to a tractor, human-powered lightweight frame, etc.
Rotational power – Electric or hydraulic motors on tractor mount systems, ground driven with transmission for human-powered.
Beater Paddles – Broom ends or “strip brush” segments like those used as large truck or RV “rock guards” or vinyl strip door material like those used in coolers.
Collection – Chutes, “hoods” or funnels, made of steel or plastic to direct beat beetles to a collection tub, bin, or tarp for disposal.
Optional: Connect to a PTO-powered vacuum (e.g., vacuum planter fan) with a collection container to capture the bugs out of the collection pan or funnel.

Examples

Modern Walk Behind Device:

Recent variations of this approach have been attempted, including this device. It is homebuilt with some bicycle parts and a broom.

Large Scale Models

Equipment manufactures are starting to experiment with manufacturing a machine to complete this task, both as a front or rear mounted implement.

Juniper Hill Farm – Adam Hainer

Adam Hainer of Juniper Hill Farm in Wadhams, NY took matters into his own hands to construct a machine. An overview of the parts used are listed below.

Hydraulic Motor

Ordered from: https://www.onehydraulics.com/

Item: BMPH-50-H2-K-P
Specs:
Dynamic LSHT Motor
51.7cc
1150RPM
885in-lb, 2031psi Differential
15.85GPM
SAE A 2-Bolt Mount
1″ Bore x 1/4″ Key Shaft
Side Ported
1/2″ NPT × 6
$1090.75

Flow Divider

Item #FD50-45-6T-N-44 Hydraulic Pump Flow Divider / Combiner, 50:50, 2.5-10 GPM (3)
Summit-Hydraulics.com
Adam notes that the speed control is needed as he needed the paddles to move faster to increase ground speed.