Implementing Integrated Pest Management in Australian Cotton

Abstract

The Australian cotton industry faces a number of challenges in pest management. These include damage due to a number of key pests [Helicoverpa armigera and H. punctigera, spider mites (Tetranychus urticae), aphids (Aphis gossypii) and mirids (Creontiades dilutus)],insecticide resistance in the primary pest (H. armigera) and two secondary pests (mites and aphids), escalating costs of production and environmental concerns over off-farm movement of insecticides. To address these issues, a major research effort has focused on reducing dependence on insecticides through the development and implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) systems. As with IPM systems in other cotton-producing countries and in other crops, the Australian cotton IPM system emphasises the use of a range of tools to manage pest populations, with insecticides seen as a last resort. What is unique about the approach taken in Australia is a higher emphasis placed on the role of beneficial insects in IPM, the heavy involvement of cotton growers and consultants in the development of the system, the emphasis on incorporating IPM as a component of the overall farming system, and the role of IPM groups, where neighbouring growers agree on a common set of IPM goals, communicate regularly and support one another to achieve group goals. This participatory action research approach provides a framework for ensuring the cotton industry is fully engaged with the research effort (Dent 1995), claims ownership of the research, and becomes a driver of the IPM program (Ooi 2003).