CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) -- Gov. Dave Freudenthal says Wyoming will undertake a $2.7 million program to suppress an expected grasshopper infestation this year.

Freudenthal says he has asked the state Department of Agriculture and State Land Office to prepare a robust spraying program to begin this spring.

He says it's essential to prevent depredation to Wyoming's natural resources and crop lands.

Experts are forecasting a large grasshopper hatch in the state.

While the state is gearing up for the fight, Freudenthal says he's concerned the federal government isn't putting enough effort into the battle on federal lands.

Copyright 2010 The AP.