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Organic Topics
Pest Management
Organic system plans need to address pest management, showing how an operation addresses anticipated pests first by prevention (e.g., sanitation, resistant varieties), then by mechanical and cultural means (e.g. row covers, release of beneficial insects), and finally by approved materials (e.g. B.t., spinosad, kaolin, etc.). Pest monitoring must be demonstrated to justify the use of approved materials. It is a good idea to check with a certifier before using any purchased input for pest management to ensure its compliance.
Information on proven, effective organic pest management is in the early stages of development. Many techniques come from traditional practices that may or may not have a base in research. Research on natural enemies is expanding along with the potential to manipulate habitat to increase biocontrol. Increasing a plant's defense system against pests shows promise in some situations. But organic farming does not guarantee an elimination of economically damaging pests, and a pest management program is needed.
WSU Websites
Apple Replant Disease - Alternatives to Fumigation
Dr. Mark Mazzola, USDA-ARS Tree Fruit Research Lab, Wenatchee, WA.
Peshastin Creek Areawide Organic Project
The Peshastin Creek Project was created as a joint effort between the Peshastin Creek Growers Association and the Pear Entomology Lab of the WSU Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center in Wenatchee. The research lab provides a monitoring service for the growers in the valley, to support their efforts toward increased use of environmentally-friendly pest management. Bluebird Fruit has created a special "Gently Grown" label for the fruit produced by the PCG Association. The project compares insect pest management under conventional, 'soft', and organic management regimes.
WSU Publications
Management of Damping-off in Organic Vegetable Crops in the Pacific Northwest - December 2009
Article in Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Newsletter
An Organic Pesticide is Still a Pesticide - April 2007
Article in Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Newsletter
Apple orchard productivity and fruit quality under organic, conventional, and integrated management.
Peck GM, Andrews PK, Reganold JP, Fellman JK. 2006. HortScience 41:99-107.
Organic Control of Cherry Fruit Fly
The active ingredient spinosad, a microbial insecticide, was tested for efficacy against cherry fruit fly. Several formulations were tested. The GF-120 product, a combination of spinosyn and a feeding attractant, proved very effective. A new system of control using point sources versus complete canopy cover was developed. The use of GF-120, an organically approved material, for cherry fruit fly control has become widespread among cherry producers in the region, both conventional and organic. It is very effective, non-toxic to humans, low impact to beneficials, and low cost due to the low volume used and quick application.
Making the Bugs Work for You: Biological Control in Organic Agriculture - December 2004
Article in Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Newsletter
Getting the Bugs to Work for You: Biological Control in Organic Agriculture
Symposium proceedings from Portland, Oregon November 2004.
Bat Houses for IPM: Benefits for Bats and Organic Farmers - March 2003
Article in Sustaining the Pacific Northwest Newsletter
WSU Presentations
Controlling Codling Moth in Organic Pear Orchards
WSU Entomology. 2003.
Resources
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