Integrated pest management on tobacco.
PI(s): Semtner, Paul J
Investigators:
Abstract: This program encourages tobacco farmers to produce their crops more efficiently, while reducing pesticide use, and improving environmental quality. Growers are taught how to use field scouting and economic thresholds, the proper methods and timing of pesticide applications, and the importance of cultural controls and beneficial organisms for managing tobacco insect pests. The use of new and safer insecticides for managing pests on tobacco is emphasized. Since most tobacco transplants are now produced in greenhouses, growers are taught integrated management techniques for greenhouses. Farmers are being informed of recommended pest management practices through publications (Flue-Cured, Burley, and Dark Fire-Cured Tobacco Production Guides, the Pest Management Guide), production meetings, field days, farm tours and indirectly through farm supply dealer and Extension agent training.publications, production meetings, field days, farm tours, farm test demonstrations, and indirectly through farm supply dealer and Extension agent training. There is close cooperation and exchange of information with entomologists from other tobacco-producing states.
Description:
This program emphasizes the use of cultural, natural, and chemical controls for managing insect pests on tobacco. My extension responsibilities are to help tobacco producers keep up to date on recommended integrated pest management practices through publications (Flue-Cured, Burley, and Dark Fire-Cured Tobacco Production Guides, the Pest Management Guide), production meetings, field days, farm tours, and indirectly through farm supply dealer and Extension agent training. This program encourages the efficient production of tobacco for optimum returns, reduced pesticide use, and improved environmental quality. Most flue-cured tobacco farmers are now familiar with the use of economic thresholds, proper methods and timing of pesticide applications, and the importance of cultural controls and beneficial organisms for managing tobacco insect pests. A survey of flue-cured tobacco growers in 2005 indicated that over 90% of the growers followed integrated pest management practices.
Commodities: Tobacco
Resources: Agricultural Experiment Station Facilities, State-Owned Vehicles
Disciplines: Environmental Quality, Integrated Pest Management, Pesticides, Sustainable Agriculture
Audiences: Agribusiness, Commodity Groups, Extension Agents, Government Agencies, Local Governments, Producers, Researchers
