A new group has teamed up to help bring down pests in the Prairies.The "Prairie Biovigilance Network" hopes to help producers save crops from pest problems quickly and holistically.
AAFC research scientist Dr. Brent McCallum, based out of the Morden, MB has partnered with experts in weed science, economics, agronomy, and plant pathology in order to better inform farmers about Prairie pests.
McCallum shared that the biovigilance project will take place in three stages.
"We are first combining experts from different disciplines to work on related issues. Second, we are researching the biotypes of pests seen to be a problem in the prairies and identifying the resistance of some of these biotypes and how we can better adjust in response to this resistance... The third part is developing those pest mitigation strategies."
The network will be formulating and sharing resources around pests of all kinds, including weeds, insects, and crop diseases. From 2022 to 2026, the project will develop a communications network to translate knowledge into practice and help producers better protect their crops.
Dr. Brent McCallum shared that the network is looking for input and help from producers as well, as ultimately, they are the ones who are dealing with said pests daily. A successful biovigilance program on the prairies will require continuous feedback from producers.
"We want to raise awareness and get producers participating with us. We don't just do this work in isolation, it's something we need to do with the producers. They're the ones on the front lines and generally the first to notice pests cropping up in their fields — their contributions to the network are crucial."
When asked about the influx of grasshoppers this year, McCallum mentioned a resource made available by a colleague in the biovigilance network.
Producers are encouraged to check out the prairie pest monitoring network at https://prairiepest.ca/. Here they will have access to current research, pest outlooks, and monitoring protocols for the next growing season.
