Brassicacae growers are highly dependent on chlorpyrifos (organophosphate; Lorsban), for control of an important pest, the cabbage root fly (CRF; cabbage maggot; Delia radicum (L.)). The threat of its loss and environmental scrutiny has increased grower willingness to test and adopt new management strategies.
As a result of evaluating the cabbage maggot pest situation in root crops in Oregon, a program was developed called "MagNet": a NETwork of people working together to develop a best management strategy targeting cabbage MAGgot management. A strategic plan is being developed to reduce overall chlorpyrifos use, including monitoring, degree-day modeling, spatial management and rotation, field cultivation methods, enhancement of beneficial organism habitat, and testing alternative chemistries.
The data indicates that there are four concerted egg-laying periods verified by adult catches in yellow water traps, placement of spring pupae emergent traps, and degree-day modeling. Program staff have monitored for egg-laying in over 75 fields in 2001 and 2002 and it is proving to better time treatments to high risk periods. Higher proportions of plants with eggs were seen within one quarter mile of a known CRF-source. An excel-based geographic information system (GIS) is being developed to conduct routine analytical procedures for the growers’ management purposes. Lorsban, Mustang (pyrethrin) and Spinosad (bacterial by-product) film-treated seed are showing promising results. Emergence of CRF adults has shown to be reduced after fall and spring disking of pupae-infested fields. An IPM continuum rating system (P4Plan) is being designed to inspire grower interest and adoption of these IPM practices.
Species 1: Diptera Anthomyiidae Delia radicum (cabbage maggot, cabbage root fly)
Keywords: IPM, Spatial Management
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