Recent innovative IPM research has led to a greater understanding of the preharvest causes of postharvest losses and, in some cases, developed management options in the orchard which can reduce the likelihood of infection. Future IPM programs will incorporate more of this understanding as it becomes available. Superficial scald, a postharvest physiological disorder of D'Anjou fruit, can be a major cause of stored fruit losses. The use of the antioxidant ethoxyquin is currently the only effective tool to manage this disorder. Research, funded by the industry, continues to look for a way to interrupt the physiological mechanisms of scald as a way to improve its management.
Pears are a unique crop with unique pest management requirements.
Since pears are grown in five geographically and ecologically dispersed locations throughout the PNW, pest problems are not uniform across the districts. Differences in pest complexes and varietal selection by growers coupled with differences in industry infrastructure have resulted in differing approaches to IPM in each district. Because of its status as a minor crop and the biological ability of key pear pests to rapidly develop resistance to pesticides, pear IPM programs are often precarious and tactics may change rapidly. The purpose of this proposal is to develop, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the resources to provide a broad industry assessment of where pear IPM stands today, where the industry wants to be in the next decade and a system for measuring this progress. This opportunity is most timely.