The Alliance was formed to develop and demonstrate the effective use of reduced-risk insecticides. To encourage the adoption of new pest management strategies, it is critical to demonstrate that large scale reduced-risk programs can control targeted pests, are practical within production systems, and are economically competitive. Although the information is available, many tree fruit growers are not using reduced-risk programs.
Efficacy is measured in terms of pest numbers, damage, and cull rate at harvest.
Costs are measured in terms of per-acre insecticide costs. Demonstrate the use of insect and mite pest control techniques without relying on the use of organophosphate, carbamate, or pyrethroid insecticides, which are threatened by the Food Quality Protection Act of 1998. Compare the effectiveness and profitability of alternative pest management methods to standard pesticide programs. Detect and learn to manage unanticipated problems in the use or transition to alternative pest management programs. Generate and disseminate information.