The swede midge has been the main pest of crucifers (cabbage family) in Québec since 2003. Its presence throughout the season, the difficulty of detecting the damage it causes, and its cryptic behaviour make controlling this pest very complicated. Organic producers currently rely on pest exclusion nets, which are expensive to use. It is important, therefore, to develop other effective ways of controlling this pest.
In conventional production, numerous insecticide sprays are sometimes required. The health and environmental risks associated with insecticide use and consumer demand for pesticide-free products are creating pressure to find other, less risky control methods.
From 2017 to 2018
Project duration
Market gardening
Activity areas
Pest, weed, and disease control
Service
In contrast to pesticide use, this method lowers health risks to humans and the environment.
University of Vermont | University of Guelph
To manage clogging risks, the project automated pumping based on water turbidity and cover the filter to prevent light from entering the water and thus reduce algal bloom.
Researcher: Caroline Côté
This project evaluated effective and economically viable control strategies for swede midge that are healthy for both humans and the ecosystem.
The project consisted of manufacturing and testing a portable rain simulator to estimate, under various conditions, what proportion of irrigation water a crop is able to use.
Researcher: Carl Boivin