Apples were identified as a priority crop in Vermont as part of the National Initiative process to determine IPM priorities and needs in 1996.
Apple production is an important component of Vermont's agricultural diversity and economy.
In addition, Vermont's apple industry generates millions of dollars from value-added products and jobs associated with the industry. Also, in Vermont and across New England, one of the top priorities identified by the apple industry during the National IPM Initiative process was to develop a decision support system to make existing research knowledge applicable and accessible for on-farm use and the application of technology in extension education. In these and other assessment tools, growers have also indicated the pest situations which would benefit most from further research and extension efforts. These identified priorities and needs will be the primary focus of our efforts over the next four years. The UVM Extension System places strong emphasis on active participation of its State Advisory Council for Agricultural Management and Sustainable Agriculture in overall program development, implementation, and evaluation.