Australian apple and pear growers, pest management scouts and advisors are being encouraged to participate in a short, less than 15-minute, survey to share their own experience and knowledge about Integrated Pest Disease Management* practices.
Aimee McCutcheon, Agriculture Victoria Horticulture Industry Development Manager said the survey would capture regionally specific, knowledge and experience, and would play an important role in the new Integrated Pest Disease Management (IPDM) project for the pome fruit industry.
“This information will assist our team to build a tailored training program, to be delivered in each of Australia’s apple and pear growing regions this August and September.
“Initially, the survey results will assist in directing ongoing industry support through the project, with online access to information, guidelines and an ask-an-expert service,” Ms McCutcheon said.
“The results will also provide specific regional information for a new Australian Apple and Pear Industry IPDM manual, that will promote integration of management practices to optimise monitoring and management of pests and diseases.
“We are encouraging all people involved in the apple and pear industry to take part in this short survey.”
The survey closes on Thursday September 13, and is available now at https://bit.ly/2L1sHJh.
The IPDM project is funded by Hort Innovation using the Apple and Pear levy and funds from the Australian Government.
The Victorian Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) is delivering the project in collaboration with Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Western Australia Primary Industries and Regional Development, Tasmania’s Institute of Agriculture; and Lenswood Cooperative.
The IPDM project will provide practical information and advice for capability development and implementation of strategies in orchards to develop, maintain and improve pest-resilient farming systems.
*Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) means using cultural and biological best management methods supported by pest identification, monitoring and understanding of action thresholds to intervene with selective pesticides only when necessary to control pests, disease, and weeds, in the production of apples and pears.
