Predator conservation in protected agriculture

As the demand for locally produced food increases farmers are implementing new techniques in agriculture to meet these demands. High tunnels are a form of protected agriculture that are increasing in popularity in regions with seasonal climates, allowing producers to extend the growing season and provide fresh local produce earlier in the spring and later into the fall. High tunnels are a hybrid cropping technique combining elements of traditional agriculture and greenhouse production. While crops are seeded directly into soil like traditional production, a large plastic-covered structure is constructed over the crop. High tunnels rely on radiant heat and ventilation for cooling creating an open but protected environment for crop production. There is little information about insect pests and management in these unique hybrid systems. Biological control is a promising tool for pest management in high tunnels but presents new challenges. The protected open environment of high tunnels allows insects to move in and out through open sides during times of ventilation but prevents wind, rain and other weather-related hazards. Protection from inclement weather typically enhances the success of augmented biocontrol however ventilation presents obstacles for retention of beneficial insects. The objectives of our research were to quantify the impacts of mesh screening, semiochemicals and floral resources on predator retention in tomato and cucumber production in high tunnels. We also evaluated the impacts of predators on pest populations, pollination and fruit production. Insect pest pressures and the application of biological control in high tunnel agriculture will be discussed.