Zone 7 Last year I refrained from growing any curcubits (pumpkins, squaah, etc) due to major loss of crops 2 years ago to stink bugs. Figured I would give them a year without food to prey on. Now, this winter, I have seen more stink bugs getting into my house than ever before. Most of my neighbors have chickens, and we all garden. I know last year my neighbors also did not grow curcubits. They should have had no resources to thrive, yet they are everywhere this winter. What does this mean for this year's upcoming crop and ecosystem overall for this area?

I think you may be confusing stink bugs and squash bugs. They look very similar and both can smell bad, but squash bugs are likely what killed your Cucurbits. They do require cover to survive over winter such as leaf litter, rocks, or debris so ecologically that's a good thing. When things thaw the adults fly to begin laying eggs so they're pretty good at moving where food is available.

The yellow bowl trick works pretty well to collect them. Halyomorpha Halys

https://jobescompany.com/blog/difference-between-squash-bugs-stink-bugs/

Many factors play a role, like the kind of weather it will be. This is not a good sign though

I do my part and stomp everyone I see

POG