Location: Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research
2023 Annual Report
Objectives
Provide efficacy, phytotoxicity and yield data and residue samples for analyses to support the registration or re-registration of minor use pesticides for the control or modification of behavior of pests through Interregional Project No. 4. [NP304, C3, PS 3B]
Approach
Determine needs for minor use pesticides by consulting producers, processors,
fieldmen, or their associations. Select pesticides for testing based on needs,
efficacy, economics, and safety to the crop and its environment. Conduct studies on candidate pesticides in the field, nursery or greenhouse to obtain efficacy,
phytotoxicity and yield data, and residue samples for analyses in accordance with
protocols, standard operating procedures, and good laboratory practices.
Progress Report
Substantial progress was made toward the project goal to provide efficacy, phytotoxicity, and yield data and residue samples for analysis. Efficacy of four herbicides and four fungicides were evaluated on seven food crops, and samples were submitted for residue analysis. Phytotoxicity of four herbicides and four fungicides were evaluated on 10 ornamental plant species to ensure that the pesticides do not harm them. Information from these field trials will be used to support petitions submitted by IR-4 Project to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the registration or reregistration of pesticides for use on minor crops and ornamentals.
Accomplishments
1. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) field testing of minor crops. The Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) collects and provides data on the efficacy and toxicity of minor use pesticides to support pesticide registrations by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ARS researchers in Wapato, Washington, conducted trials that supported EPA submission and approvals for use of eleven minor use pesticides in ten food and ornamental crops. This work will allow safe and effective use of minor use pesticides on low acreage, high-value specialty crops and non-food ornamentals.
