Project Number: 0500-00044-035-01
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Sep 04, 2008
End Date: Sep 03, 2013

Objective:
Evaluate the efficacy of mating disruption delivered by puffers, targeting navel orangeworm infesting walnuts in Butte, Glenn, and Tehama counties. As part of this effort, determine the baseline populations of navel orangeworm in selected orchard blocks and the efficacy of current sanitation and/or other cultural practices.

Approach:
Currently, there are 600 acres of walnuts participating in a mating disruption program targeting codling moth (Cydia pomonella) and an additional 200-400 acres will be added this year. Blocks with high and low navel orangeworm pressure will be selected and optimal puffer placement and supporting treatment regimes will be determined. Damage by navel orangeworm throughout the growing season will be monitored. Baseline studies to determine the level of sanitation will be performed in these orchards and the relationship between walnut sanitation and navel orangeworm infestation quantified. Populations will be monitored throughout the study using virgin-baited female traps provided by ARS. Growers, PCAs, and farm advisors will be trained in proper puffer installation, monitoring protocols for traps, lures, and canopy counts. Data will be pooled from the puffer demonstrations and emailed to participants on a timely basis.