Decision support systems as a method to enhance adoption of BC

The WSU-Decision Aid System (DAS) is a key component of outreach in Washington State tree fruit production. WSU-DAS provides real-time support for pest control decisions by growers and pest managers based on pest model predictions, time-based management recommendations, and pesticide databases. This approach already reaches a large audience (currently over 500 users) covering most of the tree fruit producing acres in the state. WSU-DAS is an ideal platform where existing and new information can be synthesized and packaged into a format that can be used by growers to adopt environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable management practices resulting from our work to enhance biological control in orchard systems. Specifically, management recommendations on DAS will include when and how to monitor for natural enemies, and when to optimally treat pests while simultaneously minimizing negative impacts on natural enemies. Phenology models of natural enemies will also be included so that users can overlay them with phenology of orchard pests to visualize how timing of pesticide applications can disrupt critical periods in the life cycles of important natural enemies and possibly cause secondary pest problems. The WSU spray guide on DAS will be updated to list impacts of the newer pesticides on natural enemies, and data filters will help users to select least-disruptive control options. Future training tools on DAS may include interactive simulation games where growers, pest managers, extension educators, and students can manage their own virtual orchard and experiment with the impact of pesticide choice and application timing on pest and natural enemy populations, and the overall orchard health.