Project Number: 5352-22430-001-15
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: May 01, 2010
End Date: Jul 31, 2014

Objective:
1. Survey organic orchards on predator release practices 2. Develop methods to allow differentiation between released and naturally occurring predators 3. Develop methods to optimize release methods 4. Conduct laboratory trials to compare efficacy of reared and released species

Approach:
Organic apple growers will be surveyed to determine extent to which insectary reared natural enemies are released as components of biological control programs in orchards. We will develop molecular methods allowing us to differentiate among field-collected predators originating from releases versus naturally occurring populations. Tests of release efficacy will be done by comparing pest and predator densities in areas of the orchard receiving releases and areas in which no releases are made. Field trials will be done to assess how release methods (numbers released, timing of releases, stages of predator released, method of release) influences efficacy. Laboratory trials will be done to confirm that insectary-reared predators feed and develop on target pests. Documents Trust with WA Tree Fruit Research Commission. Log 41879. Formerly 5352-22000-017-62T (6/10); 5352-22000-019-26T (1/11).