The economic and environmental impact of an IPM program on hazelnuts in Oregon

Authors

  • R. A. Progar Oregon State University Corvallis, OR 97331-2907
  • M. T. AliNiazee Oregon State University Corvallis, OR 97331-2907
  • J. L. Olsen Oregon State University Corvallis, OR 97331-2907

Abstract

An integrated pest management (IPM) program based on monitoring, parasite releases, and economic thresholds was implemented in the hazelnut industry in the early 1980's. To assess the economic and environmental benefits of the IPM program, growers were surveyed in 1981 to determine insecticide use in 1980, prior to the inception of the program, and in 1998 to quantify insecticide use in 1997, after the program had been adopted throughout the growing region. Survey respondents encompassed 23% and 20% of the hazelnut producing acreage in 1980 and 1997 respectively. Data indicate that the total number of annual spray applications was reduced by about 50%, resulting in an annual industry savings of over a half-million dollars.

Key words: IPM efficacy; pesticide use pattern; environmental impact; economic impact

Downloads