Implementation and Adoption of Integrated Pest Management in Canada: Insects

Abstract

Canada is one of the largest agricultural producers and exporters in the world, and agricultural production systems are as varied as might be expected in such a vast country with many different regions, soil types and climates. In this Chapter we present general background information on Canada and its agricultural insect pests followed by a discussion of pesticide use and the current situation regarding integrated pest management (IPM). Regulations, and roles and responsibilities of the various levels of government, universities, commodity organizations and private companies in research, development and extension, are discussed. Finally, four case studies are presented to illustrate the status of IPM for the cabbage maggot, Delia radicum, in vegetable brassicas, the wheat midge, Sitodiplosis mosellana, in wheat, and various insect pests in apples and grapes. These studies of IPM in very different production systems provide insight into the challenges of establishing robust integrated insect management approaches and the parameters required for successful IPM. The wheat midge IPM program for example, has been adopted widely, largely because the insect can be identified with confidence, and most key components for successful IPM are in place. These include cultural practices, an early-warning system, degree-day models and economic thresholds. In contrast, management of the cabbage maggot is challenging and IPM systems remain rudimentary. Despite a strong theoretical understanding of its ecology, species identification is difficult and unreliable, there are few economic thresholds and limited control options. In summary, it is clear that the development and extension of IPM programs for insect pests in agriculture is a priority in Canada.