Synthesis and outreach programs: Leaving a legacy useful to growers and consultants

A major component of the SCRI grant “Enhancing Biological Control in Western Orchards” is the synthesis and transfer new knowledge and technology to end users in a manner that will provide lasting impact. Information on the impact of pesticides on natural enemies developed in this project, as well as from previous studies, will be synthesized and grouped into categories of relative impact. Using natural enemy phenology models we will evaluate scenarios that minimize negative impacts of pesticides on IPM systems in apple, pear and walnut. Several outreach methods (web site -http://enhancedbc.tfrec.wsu.edu/; industry presentations; field days) will be used to transfer information to stakeholders. Focused short courses will be held to educate key personnel on the principles and application of biological control. The project will leave a legacy of published and web-based educational and reference materials to be used by IPM practitioners. The most important legacy will be key leaders specifically trained to serve as a local support network for biologically-based IPM systems in pome fruits and walnut production.