Integrated Pest Management Programs
bioLogical control solutions (BCS) offers a comprehensive pest management advisory service that includes:
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development and maintenance of full IPM programs covering insect, mite and disease pests and focusing on biological control as a key component of a long-term approach to pest management. However, biocontrol is just one component of IPM and does not (and cannot) stand alone. Other control strategies that support the use of biocontrol are essential to the continued success of any program.
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in-house staff training on IPM. Greenhouse employees need to understand the principles of IPM and be able to identify the key pest problems in the cropping system with which they are working. They have the advantage of being in the crop every day and are in an ideal position to notice potential problems early, before they become established and more difficult to control.
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in-house research to identify approaches that are most appropriate for specific situations. Each time a question is asked; “Why…?”; “What happens if…?”; there is an opportunity to learn. Simple research trials in a grower’s own crop lead to a better understanding of the how and why of pest management actions and results.
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pest and disease identification. Many IPM programs have failed because of incorrect identification of the problem at the outset. Whether it be an insect, mite or disease pest, correct diagnosis is critical to ensure that control strategies are appropriate for the problem. Even closely related pests may require different control strategies for optimum control.
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development and preparation of Best Management Practices documents and Standard Operating Procedures as they relate to IPM. Whether it be for regulatory purposes or simply as an internal record that can be used to periodically review IPM practices, or as a tool to educate new employees, BMPs and SOPs are valuable references for all crop production practices.