Farmers zero-in on insect pests. Validated RNRRS Output.
Abstract
This is one of 280 summaries describing key outputs from the projects run by DFID's 10-year Renewable Natural Resources Research Strategy (RNRRS) programmes.
Principally based on Projects R6684, R7486 and R8265. Armed with new knowledge, farmers are taking action to reduce damage to crops in storage. A risk warning system, based on a model of insect flight activity and climate data, enables extension services to warn them of anticipated increases in the threat from a pest known as the larger grain borer (LGB). In addition, using targeted insecticide applications, farmers can reduce by at least 70% the amount of pesticide applied to their crops, zeroing-in on the portion they will be consuming during the storage season. LGB can be devastating to maize and dried cassava. Without a warning system, the sporadic nature of LGB outbreaks can take farmers by surprise. The new techniques, developed and validated in Ghana and Tanzania, cut losses—and costs—considerably.
The CD has the following information for this output: Description, Validation, Current Situation, Environmental Impact. Attached PDF (6 pp.) taken from the CD.
Citation
CPH42, New technologies, new processes, new policies: tried-and-tested and ready-to-use results from DFID-funded research, Research Into Use Programme, Aylesford, Kent, UK, ISBN 978-0-9552595-6-2, p 102.