Counting the BENEFITS OF BIOCONTROL

摘要

A more expensive pesticide might be more economical if it lets natural enemies do their work. Although using new pesticides might seem more expensive than a standard organophosphate program for controlling codling moth, scientists say that's not necessarily so in the long term. A grower could save money by transitioning from older pesticides to mating disruption and newer chemistries that are less detrimental to natural enemies. Dr. Karina Gallardo, agricultural economist with Washington State University in Wenatchee, is one of a team of scientists working on the multistate project "Enhancing Biological Control in Western Orchards," which is now in its third year. Her role is to help growers to be aware of the real costs and benefits behind their pesticide choices.