New Invasive Pests Call For Retooled IPM Programs

The 2010 discovery of the spotted wing drosophila (SWD) and the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) in Michigan’s fruit growing region will disrupt current integrated pest management (IPM) for blueberries and raspberries. The addition of these pests to the “key pest” list is one way in which the pests alter IPM programs. The key to success when dealing with a key pest is understanding identification methods, lifecycle, and susceptibility to pesticides.

To develop an effective IPM program, growers need to learn how to identify and scout for these new pests. Michigan State University (MSU) Extension will provide growers with knowledge and training to successfully modify their IPM programs to manage these pests. A rigorous pest scouting program allows for early detection and effective control measures against these insects. Growers with smaller farms will benefit the most if they conduct their own IPM scouting.

Blueberries have relatively few insecticides available for pest control. These include insect growth regulators, neonicotinoids, pyrethroids, and organophosphates. According to MSU entomologist Rufus Isaacs, growers in Michigan have already implemented IPM programs to control pests like blueberry maggots and Japanese beetles, which occur near or at harvest time, using some of these insecticides. Because SWD also occurs at harvest time, existing pest control programs can provide some level of protection against this pest. Since pyrethroid and organophosphates have restrictions on their use near harvest time, however, insecticides that fit well into current IPM programs will need to be identified and optimized.

The brown marmorated stink bug has not been found yet in blueberries or other small fruit crops in Michigan. But, according to information published by Celeste Welty from Ohio State University, small fruit crops are among its major hosts (click here for more). Growers need to be aware of the serious potential threat that BMSB represents for the small fruit industry.

Because of the complexity of this challenge, MSU Extension will be offering workshops teaching growers to identify, monitor, and control these new pests. Workshops will include classroom, laboratory, and hands-on field training. Training materials with training notes for further review will be provided in both English and Spanish.

For information on upcoming workshops, contact Carlos Garcia at 616-260-0671 or [email protected].

Source: Carlos Garcia-Salazar, Michigan State University Extension, MSU IPM News