Biopesticide resistance. Words that are striking fear in farmers around the world. Although biocontrol products were once touted as a very real solution to an ever-growing problem of herbicide and fungicide resistance, it appears that claims need to be pulled back on that.
Yes, biocontrol is essential to control pest populations in a world growing less patient with conventional pesticides. But like all solutions, there is give and take that needs to be addressed.
A recent study concluded that resistance evolution is already occurring and is likely to become widespread as biopesticide use continues to increase. So, what are options for farmers? In this issue, freelance writer Treena Hein looks into the problem and talks to the experts about possible solutions.
Also in this area, and of a more positive nature, scientists continue to do indepth research in new bicontrol formulations and solutions, helping to stem current and future pest problems. Read more about that in our Biocontrol News section.
Nanotechnology is all the rage, and that holds true in agriculture as well. In this issue, we look at nanotechnology with fertilizers. While touted as a game-changer, it’s prudent to be careful and do your research before jumping in and adopting the technology. Read what we discovered.
The U.S.-based Irrigation Assocation is gearing up once again for its annual Show and Education Week, to run November 27-December 1. Read all about what’s on tap in this issue of New Ag International.
Brazil and the U.S. have signed an agreement to develop fertilizer technologies, and contributor Leonardo Gottem has all the details in our Agronomics and Economics section.
Also in that section, we explore the relatively new technology of using insect frass as fertilizer. Ÿnsect leads the way, and we explain what it is and how it works.
Read all this and more in this issue of New AG International. ●
