A new $24.79 million project is poised to revolutionize pest management for Australian grain and vegetable growers. This initiative is a crucial step in preparing these key food production industries to reduce reliance on broad-spectrum insecticides and implement innovative strategies to manage pest populations and promote beneficial insects.
The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is investing $10 million in the five-year project alongside significant contributions from Hort Innovation ($5.59 million), the University of Melbourne ($5.75 million), and Cesar Australia ($2.25 million).
This investment, known as the Australian Grains and Horticulture Pest Innovation Program (AGHPIP), has four key areas: endosymbionts in pests; boosting beneficial insect populations; proactive resistance management; and communication and extension of key project outcomes.
The project is part of a nationwide move to bolster knowledge and awareness of pest management with practical, science-backed solutions, and support on-farm practice change for grains and vegetable growers.
Read more at The National Tribune