Orpet, R.

Robert Orpet

Growers’ perceptions of IPM in pear across regions in the Pacific Northwest  

Pear IPM programs focusing on selective pesticides and cultural controls are demonstrated to effectively manage the most challenging pest, pear psylla, better than conventional programs relying on broad-spectrum insecticides. IPM programs are also less expensive, safer for workers, and more environmentally responsible. Washington pear growers spray 10-15 broad-spectrum insecticides per season, costing around $1500/acre while […]

Deep sequencing SWD gut contents to reveal non-crop alternative host plants

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is a devastating pest of Washington soft fruits including cherries, blueberries, and red raspberries. Since its arrival in 2009, the cost and intensity of insecticide programs for these crops has dramatically increased. SWD adults generally develop and invade crops from unknown alternative host plants, complicating management. Despite great efforts to identify […]