Scientists are taking advantage of the insect food chain by manipulating predator-prey relationships to protect livestock. The goal is to find natural enemies of pests that can be used in small quantities without disrupting non-target organisms. For example, research is underway to evaluate the use of parasitic wasps in stable fly control programs. These wasps search out fly pupae and deposit eggs which produce larvae that kill flies as they develop inside the pupa. When the research is complete these wasps will be used in mass releases at feedlots to augment the pest control program.
Studies show that chemical controls are very effective when used appropriately.
Livestock scientists are designing chemical and toxicological studies to examine how conventional controls affect rangelands and the cattle that graze on them. The data are used to provide support to commercial product registrations. Sensitive analytical chemical methods are being designed to measure trace levels of pest control products. By studying haircoats and other factors, they're learning how chemicals are absorbed into cattle hide. Utilizing manure nutrients Another key goal of sustainability is reducing wastes through effective management of manure nutrients.