What kind of insect is causing my squash plants to rot off at ground level and how do i stop it.?

Question

it seems to be a small worm

Answer 1

It is called...a squash bug.  Seriously.  It is.  

http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/21...

Safest way is to hand pick them and ...squash them.  Seriously.

Answer 2

Could also be a squash borer, I like the sevin dust idea for that also.

Answer 3

Could be a cutworm Sevin dust works well on a wide variety of insects. Just wash your vegetables well before you eat them.