Investment

-Pest management in the southern grains region relies heavily on the use of broad-spectrum insecticides which are inexpensive thus wide-spread in use. However, the increasing incidence of insecticide resistance demonstrates a need for more sustainable use of insecticides through the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Resistance Management (RM) practices. Challenges with achieving widespread adoption of strategies that reduce reliance on broad-spectrum chemicals, and create a sustainable pest management approach are three-fold:1. Critical information, and practical management options for these species are either not known or not well understood2. The prophylactic use of insecticides (an 'Insurance' mindset) is common3. There is a large 'Social' dimension at play (i.e. growers are the decision maker, but in many cases, are unaware of the pest management options and the pros-cons, in comparison with the advisors who make the recommendations). This investment is designed to understand grower attitudes and motivations around the adoption/ non-adoption of integrated pest management, and develop a framework for communications and extension targeting these factors By engaging with key experts and stakeholders prior to undertaking project activities, and by leveraging knowledge on IPM/RM adoption gleaned from prior GRDC investments, a more targeted approach can occur. On the back of this framework, the project team will develop and deliver high impact communication and extension products that not only present the most current science available, but will also target the social drivers and motivations to create a 'call to action' within the southern region.