For Immediate Release
Almond Board Receives Funding for Updating Pest Management Evaluation
Monday, March 8, 1999
Contact: Mark Looker (209) 549-8262 ext. 108
Modesto - - The Almond Board of California has been awarded a
grant from the
California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) to update a
pest management
evaluation it developed last year as part of an innovative
program devoted to reducing pesticide risks.
The grant in the amount of $1,250 will be used to update a
comprehensive pest
management evaluation conducted last year as the Almond Board
launched a
partnership known as the Almond Pest Management Alliance (PMA.)
The PMA partners
include the Board, the Almond Hullers and Processors Association,
the U.C. Statewide Integrated Pest Management Project, and the
Community Alliance With Family Farmers. The PMA was awarded a
$99,000 grant in June, 1998, to develop and demonstrate a reduced
pesticide risk program.
"The pest management evaluation is an excellent opportunity
for the almond industry to let DPR know about its prime pest and
disease concerns," explained PMA Project Administrator Mark
Looker. "It provides for a dialogue between the industry and
regulators which is critical in today's fast-paced
environment."
The pest management evaluation must be submitted by March 31,
1999. Then,
the Almond Alliance will submit by May 4 a work plan for a second
year of funding of its ongoing demonstration projects. Successful
projects can be awarded up to $100,000.
The Alliance has set up three demonstration projects in the
counties of Butte, Stanislaus and Kern. "This regional
approach allows for various orchard conditions and lets growers
obtain information first-hand," noted Looker. "The
projects offer a side-by-side comparisons of current cultural
practices versus alternative practices."
Grower interest in the projects has been high. More than 300
growers attended a series of three field days on dormant spray
alternative held in December. More field days are planned for the
spring.
Further information about the Alliance is available from Mark
Looker at (209) 549-8262 Ext. 108.
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