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WESTERN COMMITTEE ON CROP PESTS 46th ANNUAL MEETING

Monday October 16th, 2006 Inn at the Forks 75 Forks Market

Winnipeg Manitoba Prepared by Ian Wise

1.0 Welcome and Introductions Chair: John Gavloski; Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives; Carman, MB

Secretary: Ian Wise, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Winnipeg, MB - 37 members signed attendance sheet Bessel, Jim Harris, Lloyd Olfert, Owen Boddy, Frances Hartley, Scott Peloquin, Bruce Broatch, Jim Henry, Scott Philip, High Dosdall, Lloyd Holden, Dave Risula, Dave Elliott, Brent Kaminski, Lori-Ann Sieffert, Susan Esau, Rudy Kochhar, Kanwal Smith, Marjorie Froese, Nathan Labun, Ted Soroka, Julie Gavloski, John Letkeman, Lorne Stanford, Matt Gillis, Mike MacDonald, Scott Tansey, James Gradin, Barb MacDonald, Tim Turnbull, Gary Grekul, Chad Matus, Alex Volney, Pete Grenier, Mike McBrien, Heather Wise, Ian Meers, Scott

2.0 Additions to Agenda - none 3.0 Review and Approval of Minutes of 2005 WCCP Meeting

Motion to accept minutes (Owen O/Scott H) CARRIED

4.0 Business Arising from 2005 Meeting (Resolution Committee – Lloyd Dosdall) The resolution was forwarded to Canola Council to support grant application for testing of diamondback moth pheromone. Preliminary results found the pheromone to be too concentrated; older material was more effective because active was less concentrated Julie Soroka inquired if pheromone is a blend; it is a New Zealand blend and is most effective when plant volatiles are added.

5.0 Appointment of WCCP Resolutions Committee Hugh Philip and Scott Hartley agreed to serve. 6.0 Provincial Insect Pest Summaries for 2006 (see Appendix I) 6.1 British Columbia – Hugh Philip, British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Food 6.2 Alberta – Scott Meers, Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development 6.3 Saskatchewan – Scott Hartley, Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food 6.4 Manitoba – John Gavloski, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives 6.5 Appoint summarizers for 2007 – all summarizers agreed to remain for 2007 except for BC, with

replacement to be announced

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7.0 Provincial Entomology Research Summaries for 2006 (see Appendix II) 7.1 British Columbia – Bob Vernon, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Agassiz - presented by Hugh Philip 7.2 Alberta – Hector Cárcamo, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Beaverlodge - presented by Lloyd Dosdall 7.3 Saskatchewan – Chrystel Olivier, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Saskatoon - presented by Owen Olfert 7.4 Manitoba – Ian Wise, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Winnipeg 7.5 Appoint Summarizers for 2007 – to be done at later date 8.0 Agency Reports 8.1 CFIA Insect Pest Report - Dave Holden, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (see Appendix III) 8.2 PMRA Insecticide Update – Heather McBrien, Pest Management Regulatory Agency (see

Appendix III) 8.3 BASF Insecticide Update – Scott MacDonald, BASF, Guelph, Ontario

Metaflumizone*, a new candidate insecticide for the Canadian marketplace The benefits of metaflumizone in an IPM/IRM program

High performance on key insect pests including: 1. Key Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera (lygus bugs) and Hymenoptera (ants) pests in potatoes

and other horticultural crops New class of chemistry - no cross-resistance to existing insecticides Metabolic activation by the insect is not required – reduces risk of metabolic resistance Favourable toxicology and environmental profile:

1. Extremely low acute mammalian toxicity 2. Low toxicity to beneficial insects and pollinators

Mode of action - Metaflumizone represents a new class of chemistry and it functions by blocking the sodium channel directly, without requiring bioactivation. In fact, it is the only voltage-dependent sodium channel blocker (IRAC – Mode of Action Classification Group 22) that works in this fashion. Since bioactivation by the insect is not required for metaflumizone, it is less prone to metabolic resistance. Furthermore, field and laboratory trials indicate that it does not exhibit cross-resistance to any other commercial insecticide class including carbamates, organophosphates OPs), pyrethroids, neonicotinoids (CNIs), benzoylureas, indoxacarb and the chloride channel activator insecticides.

Metaflumizone toxicological profile (SC formulation – 240 g ai/L) Low toxicity to mammals: Acute oral rat LD50 >5,000 mg/kg bw Acute dermal rat LD50 >5,000 mg/kg bw Primary skin irritation rabbit Non-irritating Primary eye irritation rabbit Non-irritating Skin sensitization Not sensitizing Acute inhalation rat LC50 >5.2 mg/L

Low toxicity to honeybees: 48-hour contact LD50 LD50 >106 µg a.i./bee 96-hour contact LD50 (EU protocol) LD50 >1.65 µg a.i./bee 96-hour oral LD50 (EU protocol) LD50 >2.43 µg a.i./bee Cage test (EU protocol) Acceptable risk

Low toxicity to key beneficial arthropods: Minute Pirate Bug (Orius spp.) Lacewings (Chrysopa spp.) Big-Eyed Bug (Geocoris spp.) Damsel Bug (Family Nabidae) Spiders Predatory Mites (Amblyseius californicus) Ladybird Beetles (Family Coccinellidae)

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Trichogramma spp. (Family Hymenoptera) *Technical purposes only - Metaflumizone is not currently registered for use in Canada.

8.4 DuPont – Update on Rynaxypyr – Frances Boddy, DuPont

AltacorTM (not a registered product) is a new insecticide from DuPont for fruits, vegetables (to be called CoragenTM in the vegetable market), potatoes and turf. The technical material trade name for these products is RynaxypyrTM which is from a new chemical class. RynaxypyrTM has a novel mode of action (stimulates release of Ca causing muscle paralysis) with no cross resistance with existing chemistry. RynaxypyrTM demonstrates broad spectrum control of Lepidoptera families and other insects such as leafminers, termites, weevils and Colorado potato beetle, including resistant CPB. It is a slow-acting stomach poison but causes quick cessation of feeding. It is not highly systemic and its low contact toxicity makes it safe to beneficial predatory insects. In trials, RynaxypyrTM has been shown to be highly active on target species at low use rates (20-25 gai/ha) and has demonstrated long lasting insect control. RynaxypyrTM has very low mammalian, bird and fish toxicity. While this product is not yet registered some crops under research include: -Brassica Vegetables, Potato, Pome fruits, Fruiting Vegetables, Turf, Leafy Vegetables, Cucurbits -Green house vegetables (tomatoes, green peppers, cucumbers), Caneberries -Grape, Stone Fruit, Sweet Corn, Blueberry (Minor Use)

8.5 Bertha Armyworm: Canola Council Observations and Inquiries – Matthew Stanford, Canola Council of Canada

The Bertha armyworm was more abundant this year. Parasitism was present, mostly fungal in origin, but at low levels. Observations this year lead to the concern about whether economic thresholds need to be made more weather dependent. What triggers the movement of larvae up the plant onto the pods? Lloyd Harris responded that it was caused by decreased foliage and warmer temperatures. InVigor hybrids were observed to have had higher populations than other varieties. Julie Soroka responded that is was caused by higher flower production by the hybrids which attracted gravid females. Future problems for consideration are the effect of multiple insect pests and the causes of parasitism, specifically Entomophaga.

9.0 Special Reports 9.1 Progress on wheat midge resistant wheat, and a resistance management plan Marjorie Smith, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – Winnipeg, MB

The antibiosis gene Sm1 confers resistance to the midge by deterring feeding by larvae. A refuge strategy is being developed to mitigate against the selection of virulent wheat midge biotypes. In the absence of refuges, the effectiveness of the H3 R-gene for Hessian fly resistance was lost in the US after 10 years of extensive use. The novel refuge strategy for the wheat midge is to intersperse susceptible plants throughout the field instead of a refuge separate from the resistant plants. The rationale is based on the inability of larvae to move between plants and on minimizing the potential of virulent adults mating with one another. The selected refuge of a 10% seed blend maintains minimal seed damage and parasitoid survival, and deters the selection of virulent midge. An estimate of virulence-allele frequency in resistant wheat indicates Sm1 effectiveness would last 10-15 years in the absence of refuges and >100 years with the refuges. The refuge seed (10%) would be mixed with resistant wheat prior to sale by commercial seed distributors. The refuge needs to be stable in terms of % seed component to ensure reuse by growers. The refuge line has been selected from registered cultivars for its similarity in growth and maturity to the resistant line.

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9.2 Variation between flea beetle species in their susceptibility to neonicotinoid seed treatments in canola. Jim Tansey, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB

An abstract was submitted for inclusion in the minutes. The abstract was entitled: ‘Variable Responses of Phyllotreta spp. Flea Beetles to Some Neonicotinoid Insecticides: Are we promoting a shift in the dominant species?’ by James Tansey, Andrew Keddie, Lloyd Dosdall and Rana Sarfraz

Differences in susceptibility to insecticidal compounds can lead to shifts in prevalence of

herbivorous species. These compounds include relatively recently developed neonicotinoids. Here we present evidence that the canola pests, the crucifer flea beetle Phyllotreta cruciferae Goeze and the striped flea beetle P. striolata F. respond differently to the neonicotinoid seed treatments Helix® (thiamethoxam: 200g AI/100kg), Helix Xtra® (thiamethoxam: 400g AI/100kg), Prosper 400® (clothianidin: 400g AI/100kg), and an experimental unknown compound in greenhouse experiments. Crucifer flea beetles suffered higher mortality and fed less when exposed to these compounds and interactions of competition and seed treatments were more pronounced. Given that competitive release of P. striolata occurs when P. cruciferae are excluded, these seed treatments are likely contributing to a shift in the dominant pestiferous flea beetle species towards P. striolata.

9.3 Revision of the Prairie-Wide Insect Monitoring System

Jim Bessel , Canola Council of Canada A survey of growers across western Canada showed 90% use pest forecasts and maps.

The most commonly used were for grasshoppers (85%), diamondback moth (77%), Bertha armyworm (76%), flea beetles (60%), and the cabbage seedpod weevil (22%). Growers were evenly split on whether maps increase pesticide use, but most agreed they reduce environmental risk, provide savings, and increase pest awareness and monitoring. The priorities of the revised monitoring system should be: timeliness, the forecasting of pest statuses and potential new pests, the identifying of natural enemies, the use of population data to develop or update economic thresholds, the ability to reduce both ecological and economic risk, and to focus research on farmers, extension personnel, and applicators. Pest research priorities need to include long term insect pest population trends, determination of environmental and agronomic factors that influence pest populations, the development of reduced-risk strategies, the ability to conserve or enhance natural enemies and to monitor their impact, the development of risk models for emerging pests, and the training of more IPM professionals. A program to address these issues is to be directed by Owen Olfert. Tripartite program funding of $660K over 5 years is to be derived from government (46%), growers (35%), and industry (19%). Future projects include the production of a handbook for scouting techniques.

10.0 WCCP Guide 10.1 Chapter Formats: some proposed changes

All sections of the Guide will replace gai/ha rates with pesticide volume or weight/ha and acre for large scale spraying or v:v ratio or recognized measure for indoor or small scale spraying.

10.2 Review of Chapter Editors Chairperson will contact editors. 11.0 New Business 12.0 Election of 2007 WCCP Executive

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Election was delayed because of uncertainty of the site of the 2007 meeting. If held in BC, as per established 4 year rotation, the executive will be selected from outside BC because with the retirement of Hugh Philip, no provincial entomologists in BC have any WCCP meeting experience.

13.0 Resolutions - Resolution to the Western Forum on Pest Management from the

Western Committee on Crop Pests Background

1.) Data from pesticide use and crop insect and disease surveys are essential to pest management research, extension and regulatory workers to support project proposals, field programs and product development.

2.) Various agencies are involved in conducting surveys and/or compiling survey data. Recommendation That the executive of the Western Forum on Pest Management investigate sources of pesticide use, crop insect and disease survey data, what costs may be associated with acquiring the data, and what limitations may exist on distribution and use by members of the Western Forum on Pest Management. Moved by Hugh Philip Seconded by Scott Hartley

14.0 Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 6:15 PM.

Appendix I.

Compiled by Hugh Philip with contributions from Ken Awmack, Wayne Haddow and Graham Strachan. Summary: Summer of 2006 was very dry and hot throughout BC. Producers and homeowners reported isolated severe infestations of grasshoppers in all crop production regions of B.C. A survey by the CFIA revealed the recently detected pest, apple clearwing moth, is present in the south Okanagan Valley and the Abbotsford area. CFIA also found the cereal leaf beetle in the Okanagan Valley for the first time, and the first record of apple maggot in B.C. in the Abbotsford area. An unknown species of whitefly was found on recently transplanted strawberries in Kelowna. A possible new pest in B.C., the cowpea aphid, caused noticeable feeding damage to two alfalfa crops near Spences Bridge.

FORAGE CROPS Grasshopper outbreaks were again reported from isolated fields and ranges in northern, central and southern BC. Too many affected producers wait until hoppers are flying/crops are

BRITISH COLUMBIA MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE & LANDS

2006 INSECT PEST REPORT

to the WESTERN COMMITTEE ON CROP PESTS

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disappearing before deciding to take action. This is in spite of warnings issued each year to check late summer congregation sites the following spring to monitor hopper emergence and assess the need for control actions. The cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora, was identified by Dr. Bob Foottit as the aphid responsible for stunting terminal growth and leaf development in alfalfa crops near Spences Bridge in the Southern Interior. It injects a toxin while feeding that can stunt or kill plants. The aphid was first noticed in 2005 in a small corner of the 25 ha crop. By September of this year the infestation had spread throughout most of the crop. The affected rancher reported reduced plant survival and crop yield this year. This pest is originally from China where it is commonly known as the alfalfa aphid. It attacks a broad range of legume crops. Other known host plants are apple, carrot, cotton, cowpea, dandelion, dock, goldenrod, kidney bean, lamb’s-quarters, lettuce, lima bean, pinto bean, peanut, pepperweed, pigweed, red clover, shepherd’s purse, vetch, wheat, white sweet clover, and yellow sweet clover. This species apparently does not produce sexual forms and they are always parthenogenetic viviparous females. Useful web sites: http://entomology.unl.edu/newsflash/03cowpea.htm and http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r1301511.html

FIELD CROPS Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Saskatoon (Murray Braun) confirmed that Macroglenes penetrans, a parasitoid of the wheat midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana), is present in the Creston area where specimens from Saskatchewan were released in 1995. It joins Euxestonotus error (collected from Armstrong) released in the same year. Prevalence of both species is very low based on limited larval collections made in 2005. More collections were made this past summer to hopefully get a more accurate understanding on their abundance and potential impact on wheat midge populations. Cereal leaf beetle (Oumela melanoplus) presence in the Okanagan Valley was confirmed by the CFIA after adults were detected in a barley crop near Armstrong on July 7. This is the first record of this pest in BC outside of the East and West Kootenay regions. Prevalence in host crops apparently is diminishing in the Creston Valley. Whether or not this is a result of the release of the larval parasitoid Tetrastichus julis in 2002-03 has yet to be determined.

HORTICULTURAL CROPS

Apple clearwing moth (lesser redbelted clearwing) (Synanthedon myopaeformis), first confirmed in 2005 in North America from apple orchards in the Similkameen Valley of BC, was detected this year by the CFIA in the South Okanagan Valley and in the Abbotsford area of BC. At present no quarantine restrictions have been placed on apples or host nursery stock exported to the US and eastern Canada. Apple maggot (Rhagoletis pomonella) was detected for the first time in BC this summer by the CFIA in some abandoned apple and roadside native hawthorn trees in the Abbotsford area. Up to this time, BC was the only province or state in North American free of this native pest of pome fruits and occasionally soft fruits. A public awareness campaign is underway to prevent the dispersal of the pest from the Fraser Valley into the BC Interior, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Cherry fruitworm (Grapholitha packardi) prevalence in sweet cherries increased somewhat based on packinghouse screening reports. Growers were alerted to this possibility as a

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consequence of relying solely on GF-120 (0.02% spinosad) bait for western cherry fruit fly (Rhagoletis indifferens) control. Apple growers gained a new lepidoptera growth regulator, Intrepid® (methoxyfenozide), to aid in their battle to prevent late summer damage to fruit by the summer larval generations of OP-susceptible obliquebanded (Choristoneura rocaceana) and threelined (Pandemis limitata) leafrollers. A combination of pressure from nearby unmanaged populations on non-fruit hosts along with poor spray coverage and timing are the usual contributing factors. More evidence is accumulating that leaving fruit as doubles rather than singles greatly increases the risk to both fruit of summer leafroller feeding damage and subsequent loss of marketability. BCMAL in cooperation with the BC Wine Institute and Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre participated in a survey of leafhoppers in selected vineyards that received plants from France this year. Because of an apparent increased risk of introduction of two virulent phytoplasma diseases in these plants due to changes in import quarantine regulations, CFIA required post-entry surveys for the presence of potential vectors of the phytoplasmas in order to determine the need for expanded post-entry regulations. Recognized leafhopper vectors are not known to occur in B.C. European paper wasp (Polistes dominulus) was identified as the main species of wasp attacking ripening sweet cherries. Previous reports of wasp depredation were incidental until this new invader caused serious feeding injury. No doubt grape pickers will face increased annoyance from wasps if harvest overlaps with their presence. Shothole borers (commonly Scolytus rugulosus and Xyleborus dispar) are causing more damage to fruit trees throughout the southern Interior. Damage includes reduced fruit quality due to infested limbs, as well as tree mortality. Greater losses are reported in newly planted trees with winter injury to the bark and/or roots. Some infestations could be result of lack of water due to failure of the irrigation system to meet the demands of growing trees during long periods of high temperatures and low to nil rainfall. Piles of fruit tree firewood adjacent to orchards are major sources of borer infestations; however warnings to remove or cover the piles are usually heeded after the fact. Wireworms continue to cause damage to sweet corn and vegetable crops on Vancouver Island. An unknown species of whitefly was collected from newly planted field of strawberries imported from a nursery in Washington State There was no obvious feeding damage or signs of stress due to their presence. Specimens were sent to Ottawa fro identification.

OTHER PESTS The common bed bug (Cimex lectularius) is becoming more prevalent in hotels, motels and residences in B.C. based on calls for treatment by local pest control companies. This trend mirrors what is happening around the world. The PMRA has posted a new Pest Note on this pest at http://www.pmra-arla.gc.ca/english/consum/bed_bugs-e.html. A species of powderpost beetle (suspected southern Lyctus beetle, Lyctus planicollis) was identified as the wood borer emerging from U.S-sourced red oak flooring installed in a residence in Penticton. This is an unusual occurrence as previous infestations have only been diagnosed in ornamental wood products.

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The tenlined June beetle (Polyphylla decemlineata) is causing more damage to tree fruit and Christmas tree plantings in the Okanagan Valley. The infestations are not always a result of transplanting in pastures or hay land because established trees are under attack. There may be some link to soil type, irrigation and vegetation management. There are no chemical control options either pre- or post-planting. One or more (?) unknown species of millipedes are plaguing residents in and around Kelowna this past spring and again this early fall. There does not seem to be a common factor that could be attributed to there abundance such as plant debris build-up, good shelter, constant moist conditions, etc.

EXTENSION PROGRAMS

BCMAL Invasive Alien Species Strategy The fact sheet ‘Prevention and Early Detection – No Rest for New Pests’ was published in the January 2006 GardenWise Directory. This article complements the fact sheet published last year – ‘No Rest from New Pests’ in the same magazine, and outlines how the general public can prevent the introduction of invasive species, and the process to follow to have suspected specimens diagnosed. These fact sheets and other information on invasive alien species that threaten BC are posted at http://www.al.gov. bc.ca/cropprot/nonnativepests.htm. The Plant Diagnostic Laboratory has also supplied garden centres/ retail nurseries and Master Gardeners in the province with fact sheets on biosecurity for submitting and for handling possible alien species, identification of high priority species, and a special form to submit with specimens to avoid diagnostic service fees. The biosecurity fact sheets complement the fact sheet Biosecurity Guidelines for Preventing the Introduction and Spread of Plant Pests and Diseases from Farm to Farm, posted at http://www.al.gov.bc.ca /cropprot/biosecurity.htm.

Alberta Insect Pest Report, 2006 Compiled by Scott Meers

Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Summary: Cabbage seedpod weevil, wheat stem sawfly, bertha armyworm and pea leaf weevil were the pest species responsible for greatest economic damage to Alberta cropland in 2006. Two forage crop pests continue to increase their impact: clover casebearer in the Peace and alfalfa blotch leafminer in southern Alberta. Root maggots and wireworm continued to cause concerns in 2006. Cereal leaf beetle was confirmed in several areas again in 2006. Grasshoppers and flea beetles again were low in most of Alberta although the dry weather in the Peace allowed hot spots to remain or develop for both insects. OILSEED INSECTS As expected, cabbage seedpod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus) were a large concern in southern Alberta this year. Economic threshold levels occurred in many fields and near threshold densities in many others. Spraying was widespread in the Lethbridge region especially

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in the earliest seeding/flowering fields. Early bloom seemed to draw weevil adults into the fields. There were reports of spraying at a very early stage of bloom, possibly too early to really benefit. Environmental conditions for weevil larval development were ideal so cabbage seedpod weevil is expected to be a potentially severe problem again in 2007. Bertha armyworm (Mamestra configurata) continued its increase in several areas in the province. 120 monitoring sites were set up through excellent cooperation of the industry. Outbreaks occurred in central and southern Alberta (Lloydminster/Paradise Valley and Drumheller). There were isolated areas surrounding Edmonton that had high trap numbers as well. Estimates put spraying at approximately 30,000 acres. The Peace River infestation appears to have run its course with very little spraying required. Producers from the Lloydminster/Vermilion areas did report larvae dying in the canola canopy. Larvae were described as brittle and stiff, suggesting a fungal pathogen rather than a virus or parasitism. Calls from the North Peace River region were the earliest we received for bertha armyworm. Several fields in the LaCrete area were sprayed and when we tried to get samples it seemed the populations were all controlled. Because it was several weeks before the rest of the province those populations could be a different pest species. Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) was monitored in Alberta again in 2006 as part of a project through Maya Evenden at University of Alberta. Very few DBM adults were caught through the testing period this year. Striped (Phyllotreta striolata) and crucifer flea beetle (P. cruciferae) caused some damage to isolated fields in 2006 in the Peace River region (Beaverlodge and Valhalla). In most cases, however, flea beetle activity and damage were much lower than in previous years and damage was essentially non-existent in much of southern Alberta. Lygus bugs in canola were not a concern in 2006 and caused only minor crop damage. Root maggot (Delia spp.) populations were higher than previous years as they were favored by the wetter conditions. Crop losses from severe root maggot infestations were reported in fields near Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, and Vermilion. Densities of 15 to 20 larvae per plant were common in several fields in this area, and killed and lodged plants were evident. Cabbage white butterflies (Pieris rapae) were in highest numbers in southern Alberta. Adults were very evident in canola and roadside ditches where they were sourcing nectar. Larvae of both bertha and cabbage whites (imported cabbageworm) were often used in counts for spraying decisions. Descriptions of green larvae originally were misinterpreted as young green bertha armyworm larvae. In some fields near Calgary, infestations of P. rapae were considered by crop agronomists to be sufficiently severe to warrant spraying, but it is not clear whether spraying actually occurred in these fields. CEREAL INSECTS Wireworms (Elateridae) were once again a major concern in 2006.

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Severity of wheat stem sawfly (Cephus cinctus) damage was lower in most of Alberta this year compared with damage levels in recent years. Populations appear to be lower especially in the fringe areas of the black and dark brown soil zones where parasitism by Bracon cephi appears to be very high. Substantial acreage of solid stem wheat (especially Lillian) was seeded in 2006. Unfortunately, rainy and cool conditions at stem elongation time reduced the amount of pith in the stems so it was difficult to get a good idea of the varietal performance in reducing sawfly attack. Yield reports for Lillian have been very good. Wheat stem sawfly remains a serious concern through much of southern Alberta, the population is lower but it has not disappeared. Orange wheat blossom midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana) was not a significant problem this year. No reports on spraying or damage have been received at this time although soil samples done in the fall of 2005 indicated some potential hotspots and adults were identified. Cereal leaf beetle (Oulema melanopus) overwintered in Alberta. The population levels remain very low. Surveys to this point have not identified the presence of natural enemies in the population. Thrips (mostly barley thrips, Limothrips denticornis) were first reported from southern Alberta earlier in plant development but largest and most damaging populations were observed in central and eastern Alberta. Southern Alberta damage was originally being blamed on a green bug being captured in sweeps. Damage to barley in central Alberta was most evident in the boot stage with white/bleached tissue. There seemed to be varietal preferences observed in variety trials, but crop maturity confused those damage evaluations. Early maturing varieties looked to be suffering more. Brown wheat (Petrobia latens) mite caused some damage again in southern Alberta, especially in the Foremost and Stirling areas. Haanchen barley mealybug (Trionymus haancheni) reports from the Lethbridge (and Blood Reserve) were sent to Idaho for confirmation of identification. Damage seemed to be in patches, but populations were found throughout the crop. Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor) was found in the Drumheller area. Confirmed reports were also received from the Beiseker/Crossfield area. In some situations sawfly was the original diagnosis but not all fields where lodging/breaking was reported was due to Hessian fly. Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia) was not recovered in early season sampling in the Lethbridge area even though a very mild winter was experienced. This was very good news for southern Alberta wheat producers. Aphid populations were high in cereal crops in northeast Alberta, especially on late developing tillers. No controls were recommended. PULSE CROP INSECTS

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Pea leaf weevil (Sitona lineatus) damage was far more extensive and severe in 2006 than previous years. Spring flights were much earlier than in experienced previously in Alberta and weevil populations were higher. There was substantial concern over the proper insecticide to use and effective thresholds. Many acres were sprayed and producers noted more damage to nodules and root systems than in previous years. Many also reported disappointing yields and are attributing that to feeding damage from the weevil larvae. The 2006 survey showed that the distribution and level of damage has increased again as compared to the previous year. This insect continues to be worrisome as its numbers increase while good management information is hard to come by. This weevil is also causing concern in fresh peas, both commercial and garden situations. GRASS CROP, PASTURES AND GENERAL INSECTS Numbers of pest species of grasshoppers were very low in southern Alberta. There were also localized problems in parts of the Peace River region. Very little spraying for grasshoppers occurred in 2006. Populations in central Alberta seemed to disappear with the substantial spring rains. Alfalfa weevil damage (Hypera postica) was often in fields that were blooming so swathing was the remedy. More degree-day development than normal occurred in 2006, resulting in alfalfa maturity advancing before the normal harvest period.

For the past two years, several insects have been affecting red clover seed production and producers are concerned by the lack of seed set. A clover casebearer and red clover thrips (Haplothrips leucanthemi) are the most likely suspects. This is being studied by Jennifer Otani and Calvin Yoder and they have pretty much eliminated that red clover thrips were much of an issue. “In all cases, specimens examined this summer occasionally revealed 2-5 thrips present in flower heads that were already damaged/occupied by red clover casebearer larvae (Coleophora deauratella).” In addition, honeybee producers observed low honey production on the second pull in red clover and we attribute this to red clover casebearer feeding damage within the florets. Alfalfa blotch leafminer (Agromyza frontella) is now well established in the Brooks area. Damage in some cases was severe. While generally treatment was not warranted in forage production fields questions remain about the economic impact in alfalfa seed fields. Isolated alfalfa seed fields in the Falher area had high numbers of lygus (Lygus spp.) bugs in alfalfa seed stands (ranging 30-80 bugs per 10 sweeps) just prior to leafcutter bees going out. Typical insecticide applications controlled the lygus bugs. Lygus was also a concern in southern Alberta alfalfa seed production fields.

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Infestations of the black grassbug (Labops hesperius) again occurred, primarily in central Alberta.

Spittle bugs (Cercopidae) in various crops from alfalfa to thistle. Adults were quite abundant in roadside grasses in August

STORED GRAIN INSECTS

Concerns have been raised over infestations of the rusty grain beetle (Cryptolestes ferrugineus), the availability of fumigants and finding someone with an approved license to do the fumigation. There are a lot of grain insects in tough or marginally dry stored crops held over from 2005 resulting in stored grain insects reports from several regions in the province. Moisture migration within the bins resulted in buildups on various insects. Insect identified included psocids, mites, foreign grain beetles and red flour beetles. Use of diatomaceous earth was widespread but success was limited due to moisture content of grains.

HORTICULTURE INSECTS

There were a number of questions on saskatoon sawfly (Hoplocampa montanicola) in saskatoon berries, black currants and chokecherries, the strawberry root weevil (Otiorhynchus ovatus) in strawberry, and the raspberry fruitworm (Byturus bakeri) in raspberry. Chokecherry fruit gall midge (Contarinia virginianae) was identified attacking chokecherries. Linden looper (Erranis tiliaria) was showing up in large numbers in a lot of different areas. Cottony Ash Psyllid (Psyllopsis discrepans) continues to be of concern to nurseries and within Calgary and Edmonton. Lace bugs (Corythucha spp.) in saskatoons were in quite high numbers and also on a number of other host crops and seemed to be fairly widespread. Apple maggot (Rhagoletis pomonella) appears to be very widespread in the Edmonton area. PROGRAM NOTES The Alberta Pest Monitoring Network continues to improve. The network had great participation in several surveys, including bertha armyworm, diamondback moth, cutworms and sawfly. Other surveys were done largely internal to AAFRD with the exception of the grasshopper survey which was done almost exclusively by the agricultural fieldmen. The Prairie Pest Monitoring Network struggled this year with slow uploading of data and map generation. This network is attempting to create a mapping facility that updates automatically on a daily basis as new moth counts are added. The three prairie provinces and the British Columbia Peace River region were involved this year in mapping Bertha armyworm. There’s a general lack of a network for insect identification, especially the weird ones. But those weird ones could turn out to be a Japanese beetle, or Cereal leaf beetle in the future. Digital pictures are very variable with some excellent and others worthless. Scott Meers Pest Risk Management Specialist Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development

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SS#1 Brooks, Alberta scott.meers@gov.ab.ca Thanks to Jim Broatch, Robert Spencer, Keith Mills, Trevor Schoff, Mike Dolinski, Jennifer Otani, Lloyd Dosdall and Hector Carcamo for their contributions.

2006 Saskatchewan Insect Report presented to the

Western Committee on Crop Pests October 16, 2006

Winnipeg, Manitoba Compiled by: Scott Hartley Insect Specialist / Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food 125 – 3085 Albert Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4S 0B1 Telephone: 306 – 787 – 4669 Email: shartley@agr.gov.sk.ca Summary There was a warmer start to the 2006 growing season, compared to the previous 2 years, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees C in early April in some areas of the province. Soil moisture was good to excellent for the province followed by high precipitation resulting in very wet conditions in some areas, particularly parts of the NE. This affected planting dates ranging from very late seeding to fields where it was not possible to seed at all in 2006. In the fall some of these same areas, in the northern grain belt, had high rainfall (> 10 cm in 24 hrs) delaying harvest. Overall the temperatures were warm to hot throughout the growing season accelerating crop and insect development. The main insect pest issues for various crops were wireworms, cutworms and cabbage seedpod weevil in May and June, followed by wheat midge, wheat stem sawfly in July. Aerial applicators were busy with economic populations of wheat midge and outbreaks of Bertha armyworm, especially in the eastern and central regions of Saskatchewan. Cereal Insects: (estimated 2006 seeded area: spring wheat 10.625 million acres; durum 3.66 million acres; barley 3.55 million acres; oats 2.15 million acres) Orthoptera: grasshoppers – Following two successive years of unfavourable conditions for grasshoppers, populations remained at low levels in 2006. Pulse Canada received funding through the AAFC Pesticide Risk Reduction Program for a project that was directed at assisting producers in identification of grasshoppers. A booklet entitled “Grasshopper Identification & Control Methods was published and distributed in winter extension meetings. This field guide provides information on characteristics of “pest” and “non-pest” grasshopper species. The purpose is to help in pest management decisions by determining the potential risk to crops, based on life cycles and feeding preferences. Dr. Dan Johnson (University of Lethbridge) provided the. This guide was

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developed by the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers Association in collaboration with Pulse Canada and Dr. Dan Johnson (images and text for the booklet) of University of Lethbridge. Funding for the development and printing of this publication was provided by the Pest Management Centre of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. A 2007 Saskatchewan grasshopper risk map will be generated and posted on the Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food (SAF) website (www.agr.gov.sk.ca). The map is produced from data collected by Saskatchewan Crop Insurance field personnel, in a fall survey of adult grasshopper populations. Preliminary results suggest the risk will be low for 2007. Coleoptera: Elateridae – wireworms – Wireworm infestations continue to be a growing problem in many crops although cereals tend to be the most affected. This trend, with more reports of infestations and larger portions of the fields being damaged, has been noted in western Canada for the past few years. Unfortunately it is usually the poor plant stand that indicates a problem and if it is a wireworm issue there are no control options for the current year and by the time the damage is noticed it is often too late to re-seed. Therefore management strategies, especially a registered insecticide in a seed treatment (cereals) or crop rotation to more resistant crops are recommended for the following growing season. As noted in 2005, Cruiser® seed treatment remains the only registered option for wireworm control in cereal crops and must be applied in commercial seed treatment facilities with closed transfer capabilities. Therefore on farm treatment of bin run seed is not an option for producers. Bin run seed is the most common source for wheat planted in Saskatchewan. The active ingredient fipronil has been identified as an efficacious, reduced-risk product for use in control of wireworms in potatoes and cereal crops. (Dr. R.S. Vernon. et. al. AAFC, Agassiz, B.C.) This is one of the active ingredients put forward by SAF to the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) as a product registered in the United States and not in Canada. This product represents a “technology gap” and should be “fast-tracked” for registration. Lepidoptera: Noctuidae – cutworms various species (most common species – Euxoa ochrogaster (Guenee) / redbacked cutworm and Agrotis orthogonia Morrison / pale western cutworm - Cutworms also caused extensive damage to seedlings in 2006. Similar to the distribution of wireworms, the areas of infestation were not isolated to specific areas of the province. However if the infestation was determined to be from cutworm feeding, producers had the option of chemical control for most crops. Depending on the registered uses associated with the insecticide the options are organophosphates (chlorpyrifos) and synthetic pyrethroids. Due to the warm temperatures most of the cutworm larvae finished feeding and had moved on to the pupal stage by the end of June. This is more typical and definitely earlier than observed in 2004 and 2005. Homoptera: Aphididae – Diuraphis noxia (Kurdjumov) – Russian wheat aphid (RWA) – The Russian wheat aphid was first found in southwest Saskatchewan in the late 1980’s. Although scope of monitoring has been scaled down over the subsequent years, AAFC, Saskatoon continues to monitor for this pest of cereal crops using a suction trap and through field surveys. To date only females have been found and it has not been over-wintering in the province. The distribution is still in the southwest, west of Swift Current and south of the South Saskatchewan River. In 2006 the RWA was first collected in traps about a week later (about July 15) than in 2005.” The numbers this year were very similar to last year (low levels).

Hymenoptera: Cephus cinctus Norton – wheat stem sawfly – One of the most destructive pests of cereals in recent years, the wheat stem sawfly continued to be a problem for wheat producers in 2006. High infestations were found in locations throughout the province, including

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northern wheat growing regions. Some of the worst infestations were reported in the mixed grasslands in the central region (e.g. Watrous). Crop rotation using non-susceptible crops, use of solid-stemmed wheat varieties and early swathing of conventional wheat varieties remain the best management strategies for combating this pest. The use of solid-stemmed wheat in guard strips around the perimeter of fields has also been recommended. Research in Lethbridge has noted that this strategy can be useful for protecting conventional varieties within the field. However a minimum of a 70 foot guard strip is recommended. The use of guard strips was put forward as a Beneficial Management Practice (BMP) under AAFC’s national program and was accepted allowing some monetary compensation for producers adopting this strategy.

If sawfly damage has been high in an area and wheat is planned as part of the cropping rotation for 2007, it is strongly recommended to acquire solid-stemmed wheat varieties well in advance as availability of seed is often limited. AC Abbey, AC Eatonia and the newly released AC Lillian are the currently marketed solid-stemmed options. There were complaints about how well AC Lillian stood up to the sawfly pressure. However as has been noted, pith expression is reduced in solid-stemmed varieties if the weather is cloudy, cool and moist. This may have been one of the reasons for performance of the variety in some areas. Other reports indicated that the worst lodging was in higher locations in fields where the wheat would have been subject to higher winds and also more prone to lodging. A wheat stem sawfly survey was conducted for a third year in the fall of 2005 and was not repeated in Saskatchewan in 2006.

Diptera: Sitodiplosis mosellana (Gehin) - wheat midge – The wheat midge has re-emerged as a serious pest in wheat in Saskatchewan. As indicated in the 2006 forecast map the worst affected areas were in the eastern half of the province but economic infestations were also reported in the central and northeast regions. The most frequent inquiries related the staging of the crop with respect to susceptibility to the midge. Wheat crops should be monitored from the time the boot leaf starts to split and the head is visible until flowering (anthesis). Timing of insecticide application is critical in obtaining the best control as well as for avoiding unnecessary costs and undesirable affects on natural biological control organisms. Insecticides containing the active ingredient chlorpyrifos are the most effective chemical control option and the most preferred by producers, for use in managing wheat midge infestations.

There have been reports of extensive downgrading, attributed to wheat midge damage, of harvested wheat from the 2006 growing season. Part of the explanation may be due to understanding of when the wheat plants become susceptible to the midge and when to monitor for the midge. Some wheat growers interpreted “emergence of the wheat head from the boot leaf” to mean above the boot leaf. If field scouting has not occurred up to this point the wheat head has already been susceptible for some time and control operations could be late for any midge that have emerged, laid eggs with the larvae already within the glumes. The susceptible period will vary, depending on climatic conditions.

A fall wheat midge survey is being conducted under contract with Saskatchewan Crop Insurance to provide an estimate of populations and risk for 2007. This is a soil survey from which midge cocoons and “free” larvae are extracted and examined to determine parasitism levels. Total numbers of viable midge will be used to produce a risk map for 2007 that will be posted on the SAF website.

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Using temperature data from Environment Canada, Agriculture and Agri-food Canada estimates development of midge pupae within the soil using Degree Day (DD) modeling and provides an indication of the timing of emergence of adult midge from the soil. Using a base temperature specific to wheat midge emergence is expected at about 600 DD with a peak of emergence at 800 DD. Oilseed Insects: (estimated 2006 seeded area: canola 6.36 million acres; mustard 280,000 acres; flax 1.6 million acres) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae – Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze) – crucifer flea beetle – The warm, dry conditions in 2006 were more favourable for flea beetles populations. Due to the very low numbers observed in 2005, a dramatic rebound to high populations was not expected. However Canola Council agronomists reported higher infestations, most notably in the southeast. Producers were on watch in case foliar insecticide application was required but with good growing conditions, the canola was generally able to tolerate limited feeding and no post emergent insecticide control for flea beetles was reported in Saskatchewan. Lepidoptera: Plutellidae – Diamondback moth – Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) – Although there were reports of diamondback moth in canola, other “green worms”, often cabbage butterfly or imported cabbageworm (Pieris rapae), were more prevalent and diamondback moth identification was unconfirmed. Noctuidae – Hadeninae – Mamestra configurata Walker - Bertha armyworm – The warm temperatures in the spring resulted in an earlier and rapid emergence of Bertha armyworm moths in June with a peak prior to mid-July as identified in the SAF pheromone monitoring program (approximately 180 traps in 2006). Insecticide application, largely by air began later in July and continued into August. In some cases more than one application was required to control the worms. Continued high temperatures advanced crops quickly and pre-harvest intervals became part of the decision in further chemical application. Early swathing was also considered as an option for some of the more advanced crops. Later seeded crops, especially in the areas affected by spring flooding in the northeast and east central remained vulnerable later in August.

Although the outbreak was widespread, populations of the armyworms varied greatly. Some fields had such high numbers insecticide application was easily warranted while only a few kilometres away the pests were difficult to find.

It is estimated that over 700,000 acres of canola were sprayed by air, for Bertha armyworm in Saskatchewan in 2006. Some of the largest affected areas (> 200,000 acres) include Duck Lake (RM 463), Rosthern (RM 403) through to Birch Hills (RM 431 and 460). The northeast and east central region including Tisdale, Melfort, Hudson Bay and Yorkton also had a similar estimated acreage requiring control. Other significant areas with economic populations were reported in south and central locations regions (e.g. Strasbourg RM 220, Raymore RM 278).

There were also reports of Bertha armyworm in flax and alfalfa. In flax the armyworms consume the bolls but often can be seen feeding at the base of the bolls. Even if not directly feeding on the bolls, this can ultimately result in the bolls breaking off, reducing overall yield potential.

Most of the armyworm populations appeared to complete their larval phase suggesting there is a substantial reservoir of pupae in the soil as of the fall of 2006. Information on parasitism levels is not available. It was interesting to note that there were a number of reports of diseased

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armyworms in fields in some areas (e.g. Prince Albert, Birch Hills). The BAW pheromone “trapline” will be important to indicate risk for 2007. Coleoptera: Curculionidae – Ceutorhynchinae – Ceutorhyncus obstrictus – cabbage seedpod weevil – Canola and mustard crops in southwest Saskatchewan were infested with high populations of cabbage seedpod weevil. This insect first appeared in the southwest in 2000 but not in any significant numbers. Since then the population levels have fluctuated and the weevil has gradually extended its range to the north and east. In 2006 there were extensive economic populations requiring chemical control for the first time in this province. Although most of the insecticide application was reported in the Maple Creek area, economic populations were found as far east as Gull Lake and Webb. Diptera: Anthomyiidae – Delia radicum (L.) – cabbage root maggot – The moist climatic conditions were favourable for root maggots and an increase in populations was noted. Chemical control options are limited to adult flies and extent of damage cannot be quantified. Other Crops: (estimated 2006 seeded area: canary seed 300,000 acres; chickpea 310,000 acres; lentil 1.45 million acres; dry pea 2.765 million acres) Canaryseed - Homoptera: Aphididae - Aphids (various species but largely bird cherry oat, Rhopalisiphum padi (L.) and English grain, Sitobion avenae (Fabricus)) – High aphid populations were observed during field scouting in a number of field crops in July. Aside from the annual infestations of aphids in canaryseed, aphids in pea crops have become more frequent with significant insecticide application required in recent years. In 2006 pea, lentil, flax and canola were affected in eastern areas of the province. Chickpea – Elateridae – wireworms – Wireworms have been an occasional problem for chickpea producers. Cruiser 5 FS is being requested (minor use registration) for wireworm control in Kabuli Chickpea. Timothy – Acari:– Bryobia sp. – For the second consecutive year mites were noted in an irrigated Timothy hay field near Lucky Lake. Last year it was reported as Petrobia latens (Müller), the brown wheat mite. The case was unique as this mite infestation did not follow the normal symptomatic patterns of the brown wheat mite that does best under dry conditions. In 2006 the infestation expanded to cover most of the quarter section. AAFC collected specimens for identification. These were submitted to the National Identification Service in Ottawa where they were identified as a different, as yet undefined species of Bryobia mites. Alfalfa - Coleoptera: Curculionidae – Hyperinae – Hypera postica (Gyllenhal) -alfalfa weevil - There were reports of severe damage to alfalfa stands in southeast Saskatchewan, many noticed late as the green plant tissue was already consumed by the weevil and fields exhibited the “silvery” appearance. In some cases early cutting was sufficient for control. In others chemical application was required. The weevil has extended its range farther north. Diptera: Agromyzidae - Agromyza frontella (Rondani) alfalfa blotch leafminer – This pest continues to spread slowly westward and northward from its original appearance in the southeast tip of the province in 2001. In 2006 the pest reached Hudson Bay, the north eastern limit of agricultural production in the province, and as far west as Elrose, in the west central area. Leaf mining did not seem to be as severe as last year.

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Red Clover – Coleoptera: Curculionidae - Hypera nigrirostris (Fab.) – lesser clover leaf weevil - Red clover growers in north eastern Saskatchewan were again noting seed reductions due to lesser clover leaf weevil. Populations appear to be increasing in area and impact. Stored Grain Insect Pests: Coleoptera: Cucujidae – Ahasverus advena (Waltl) - foreign grain beetle – This fungus feeding beetle was prevalent during harvest and in grain being delivered to elevators late in the 2006 growing season. In most cases it was misidentified as rusty grain beetle but samples sent to the Crop Protection Lab in Regina, the Canadian Grain Commission and AAFC, Saskatoon were all identified as the foreign grain beetle. Normally a problem in grain that is in poor condition (moist) the 2006 harvest was conducted under dry conditions. Most of the reports were from the west central region. Some producers reported high numbers even in combine hoppers as the grain was being harvested as well as in bins. This appears to be an anomaly and was most likely associated with the poor harvest conditions in 2005 where swaths over-wintered in the field and the unusually mild winter. Infestations in bins were reported to be from carryover grain from the previous year’s harvest. Aeration and the use of grain vacs were recommended as the best options for control. Control options for grain storage - Malathion insecticide is registered for use in empty storage facilities including grain bins and rail cars. Malathion Grain Protectant Dust (2% malathion) is also registered for use in stored grain (cereals). Oilseeds in storage do not usually present an attractive host for stored grain insects unless there are “contaminants” such as cereal grains or grain dust present. There are no registered insecticides for use in oilseeds while in storage. Although the registration is for empty bins it has been noted that canola will absorb malathion from the bin walls for a period of time after application and presence of malathion residues in canola, even at low levels, has become an issue for export of this commodity, especially to Japan. Therefore the Canola Council of Canada has recommended that malathion not be used in storage facilities where canola is to be stored. Other insect issues: Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus (Phil Curry – Provincial West Nile Virus Coordinator) Detailed information on the various programs for 2006 including funding options and surveillance data is available on the Saskatchewan Health website. (http://www.health.gov.sk.ca). High precipitation in 2006 throughout the entire agricultural portion of Saskatchewan provided an extremely favourable habitat for mosquitoes. There were several flushes of some of the main nuisance species as a result of local thundershowers. Barring any large rainfall events, the numbers of these nuisance species will start to drop off in the coming weeks. The main mosquito vector of West Nile virus (WNV) Culex tarsalis, which can usually have three generations a year in Saskatchewan, had an early appearance in 2006. Key Messages – Final WNV News Release

• The number of human cases to date for 2006 was 19 (3 of which are the severe form of the disease). Nine of the cases are from the Sun Country Health Region with the majority of those from Estevan. Numbers are down from 2005 when we had 60 human cases, including 6 of the severe form of the disease.

• There were 5 positive birds and 1 suspect horse case (not confirmed)

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• There were 37/425 positive mosquito pools (all Culex tarsalis); 30 of the positive pools were in the southeast (Sun Country Health Region)

• The summer was hot and dry in the southern part of the province and mosquito numbers were lower than normal. However, a large proportion of the mosquitoes that were present in these areas were Culex tarsalis – the main carrier of WNV. This mosquito thrives in hot, dry weather and conditions were ideal for this species in the southeast corner of the province. 29 of the 37 positive mosquito pools came from Estevan area and infection rates in the mosquitoes were high in this area.

• Conditions were slightly cooler and much wetter in the central areas of the province and Culex tarsalis populations were lower.

• Other factors in the reduced number of cases this year could include increased immunity in birds. The virus did not build up in birds to high levels as early or over as large an area in 2005 compared to 2003, the year when there was a large outbreak of the disease in Saskatchewan. Other factors include more effective mosquito control programs and increased public awareness of WNV and how to reduce the risks of getting the disease.

Considerations and Concerns:

• The Agriculture Knowledge Centre in Moose Jaw (1 - 866 – 457 – 2377) is the main contact for agricultural inquiries in Saskatchewan and handles calls related to production in Saskatchewan.

• The assistance of AAFC, Saskatoon is greatly appreciated with respect to insect issues

and monitoring.

• Combating infestations of wheat stem sawfly in wheat growing areas of Saskatchewan will continue to be a problem for producers for the foreseeable future.

• Potential new insect pests – cereal leaf beetle Oulema melanopus (Linnaeus) and Swede

midge Contarinia nastutii (Kieffer) – The presence of cereal leaf beetle in Alberta, Montana and North Dakota suggests that the Canadian Prairies will have to deal with this pest in the near future. Cereal acreage on the Prairies will present a larger area of host crops than previous distributions in the United States and British Columbia.

Compiled by: John Gavloski; Entomologist; Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Box 1149, Carman, MB, ROG OJO

Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives 2006 Insect Pest Report

to the Western Committee on Crop Pests

October 16, 2006 Winnipeg, Manitoba

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Phone: (204) 745-5668 Fax: (204) 745-5690 jgavloski@gov.mb.ca Abbreviations used: The following abbreviations will be used in this document to indicate the following agricultural regions in Manitoba; NW=Northwest, SW=Southwest, C=Central, E=Eastern, I=Interlake. Estimated acres: Estimated acres grown in Manitoba in 2006 (shown in brackets under each commodity title) are from the Manitoba Crop Insurance Corporations 2006 Variety Market Share Report.

Summary: In cereal crops, aphid populations reached high levels in some fields, making control economical. Wheat midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana) populations were high in some areas, resulting in some spraying of insecticides.

Bertha armyworm (Mamestra configurata) populations were quite high in some areas of the province, resulting in substantial damage in some canola fields and the use of insecticides for control. Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) populations reached damaging levels in the Southern Interlake region and the area north of Ste. Rose. Levels of lygus bug (Lygus spp.) were high in sunflowers during the flowering period, resulting in substantial control in confection sunflowers. High levels of potato aphids (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) occurred on flax in the Central and Interlake regions.

Soybean aphid (Aphis glycines) reached economic levels for the first time ever in Manitoba. High populations occurred on soybeans in the Eastern, Interlake and Central area of the province. Spider mites were a concern on soybeans in the Eastern part of the province late in the season. Populations of pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) reached high levels in some fields of field peas in the western part of the province, resulting in some insecticide applications.

SMALL GRAIN CEREALS (Wheat (spring)-2,834,320 acres; Wheat (Winter)-302,790; Barley-678,469 acres; Oats-771,265 acres; Rye-74,835 acres; Triticale-1,848 acres) Cutworms: There were not many reports of cutworms being problematic in cereal crops this year. Control was necessary in a fall rye field near Wellwood (SW), and at least half the field had to be reseeded because of cutworm damage. Wireworms: Some wheat fields in the Gilbert Plains (NW) area had quite noticeable feeding damage from wireworms, and one of these fields was reseeded because of the wireworm damage. Thrips: Thrips were quite abundant and there feeding was quite noticeable in many cereal fields early in the season. I am not aware of any insecticide being applied to cereals to control thrips, however. Aphids: Aphid populations got to high levels in many cereal fields, and some spraying to control aphids was done. In some instances insecticides other than those registered for aphids in cereals were applied because fungicides were already being applied to the crop and it was desired to tank mix an insecticide with the fungicide. Wheat midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana): High levels of wheat midge were present in some wheat fields, and some insecticides were applied. Spraying for wheat midge is known to have occurred near Pilot Mound (C) and Rivers (SW). Grasshoppers: Populations of grasshoppers were generally below economic levels in 2006. One wheat field Northwest of Morris (C) was reported to have a high population of grasshoppers early in the season, and was sprayed to control them.

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Wheat Curl Mites (Aceria tosichella): Wheat streak mosaic, which is spread primarily by the wheat curl mite, was confirmed in a few fields in the southwest and Central regions of the province. Wheat streak mosaic began to be noticed on volunteer cereals in early May. A field of winter wheat west of Somerset (C) was reseeded to canola because of wheat streak mosaic virus.

CORN (135,150 acres grain corn; 52,779 acres silage corn)

Seedcorn maggot (Delia platura): Seedcorn maggot was noticed in higher levels in corn fields in the Shilo (SW) area. European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis): In 2006, 56.5 % of grain corn was seeded to Bt varieties, and 10.6% of silage corn was seeded to Bt varieties. In a survey of 17 corn fields in July and August, very low levels of European corn borer were found.

CANOLA and MUSTARD (Argentine canola-2,198,971 acres; Polish canola-884 acres; Mustard-3,663 acres)

Flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.): Flea beetle feeding was generally low enough to be non-economical, however there was some spraying for flea beetles in the Dauphin (NW) and Grandview (NW) areas. Cutworms: The only cutworm damage in canola that was reported was from a field southeast of Neepawa (SW). Bertha Armyworm (Mamestra configurata): Bertha armyworm populations were high and insecticides applied to many canola fields in the Northwest area of the province. The heaviest populations and most spraying seemed to be in the Swan River area and north of Minnedosa, with some control also needed in the Roblin area and south of Dauphin. One particular field north of Minnedosa had areas with populations as high as 20 larvae per plant, and most of the yield from the field was lost. There are some reports of fields being sprayed twice for bertha armyworm in the Swan River area. Bertha armyworm could be easily found in many fields in the Brandon area, but at levels below the economic threshold of 25 -30 / meter square being used this year (based on the value of canola and control costs). There were some reports of spraying for bertha armyworm in the Notre Dame de Lourdes (C) and Homewood (C) areas, however, so the higher populations were located much further east in Manitoba in 2006 then they were in 2005. Close attention needs to be given to monitoring for the adult moths in June and July of 2007 to determine if and how widespread high populations are expected in 2007. The traps once again predicted fairly closely the general regions where higher populations could be expected. An interesting observation from one agronomist was that larvae seemed to be more advanced in any of the fields where the stubble had been burned. Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella): High populations and some spraying for diamondback moth occurred in the southern Interlake and the area north of Ste. Rose (NW). Other Lepidoptera: Although not really a pest of canola, high level of zebra caterpillars, Melanchra picta, was noted in localized areas of some fields. These were particularly numerous in the Eastern and Central areas of the province. Two canola fields (near Rosenort and Domain) were sprayed for zebra caterpillar late in the season. Lygus bugs (Lygus spp.): Some canola in the Beausejour (E) area was sprayed to control lygus bugs.

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FLAX (Flax-343,796 acres)

Potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae): Populations of potato aphid on flax became quite high in some areas late in the season, making decisions on the economics of control quite difficult. In some of the fields, significant numbers of aphids were found on the flax once the crop was past the green boll stage. Many flax fields around and south of Pilot Mound (C) had high numbers of potato aphids late in the season. There was also some spraying for aphids in flax in the southern Interlake in early July. Lygus bugs (Lygus spp.): A field of flax west of Beausejour (E) was sprayed in late July to control lygus bugs (about 40-50 / 10 sweeps were being found). No insecticides are registered for lygus bugs in flax, and whether controlling lygus bug populations such as these in flax is economical is still uncertain; the one study that has been published found these numbers of lygus bugs in flax had no economical effect under good growing conditions (Wise and Lamb 2000). More research on lygus bugs in flax is needed.

SUNFLOWERS (150,825 acres non-oil; 41,284 acres oil)

Wireworms: High numbers of seedlings were reported to show some wireworm damage in some fields in the Morden (C) and Plum Coulee (C) areas in late May. Sunflower beetle (Zygogramma exclamationis): Some high populations and spraying for sunflower beetles occurred in the Eastern and Central areas of Manitoba. In some instances it was the adults that were being controlled in early June, while in other instances it was mainly the larvae being targeted in July.

Seedhead Insects Banded Sunflower Moth (Cochylis hospes) and red sunflower seed weevil (Smicronyx fulvus): Populations of seed weevils were very low again this year, and usually hard to find when scouting for insects on sunflower heads. Although banded sunflower moth populations were noticeable in some fields, I am not aware of any fields where high populations were reported. Lygus bugs (Lygus spp.): Lygus bug populations were high in many sunflower fields during flowering, resulting in spraying in many fields of confection sunflowers. Some fields of confection sunflowers were sprayed twice to control lygus bugs. No insecticides are registered for lygus bugs on sunflowers in Canada. Research on insecticides and management strategies for lygus bugs in confection sunflowers is needed.

BEANS (Dry Edible) (178,475 acres: White pea (navy)-81,132 acres, pinto-50,849 acres, black-20,720 acres, kidney-14,197 acres, cranberry-4,801 acres, red Mexican-930 acres, other dry ebible-5,846 acres) Very few insect problems were reported from fields of dry edible beans in 2006. Populations of potato leafhopper (Empoasca fabae) became noticeable in some fields of dry edible beans around early-July, however I am not aware of any economical populations or insecticides being applied to dry edible beans in 2006.

PEAS (Field) (85,070 acres)

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Pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum): A few fields of peas in the Southwest part of the province were sprayed for pea aphids in early July.

SOYBEANS

(363,788 acres) Soybean Aphid (Aphis glycines): Soybean aphid numbers became quite noticeable in some fields about mid-July and by late-July several soybean fields in the Eastern and Central part of the province had been sprayed to control soybean aphids. Populations continued to build and more fields surpassed the economic threshold (250 aphids per plant and the population still increasing) and had controls applied in early August. Populations of soybean aphid got quite large in some soybean fields in the Interlake region of Manitoba as well. Heavy soybean aphid populations were reported as far west as Cypress River where a nearby field was reported to have a population of about 1,000 aphids per plant. Crop scouts within a region often reported great variability in levels of soybean aphids: one scouting report indicated finding 250 – 1200 aphids per plant in 14 out of 15 soybean fields inspected west of Lac Du Bonnet (with one field not being too heavily infested yet) while on the same day 4 fields east of Stonewall were inspected and virtually no sign of aphids was found. This is the first year that soybean aphids have reached economic levels in Manitoba. Spider mites: Spider mites and their feeding damage became noticeable in some soybean fields in the eastern part of the province in mid-August. In some of these fields the damage was very distinctively worse along field edges. Some of these fields were sprayed to control the spider mites.

FABABEANS (8,533 acres)

No insect problems were reported from fababeans in 2006.

FORAGES AND FORAGE SEED Plant Bugs: Insecticide were applied in many alfalfa seed fields to control lygus bugs (lygus spp.) and alfalfa plant bugs (Adelphocoris lineolatus). Alfalfa Weevil (Hypera postica): Alfalfa weevil was a concern in several alfalfa hay and seed fields in the Eastern, Interlake and Central regions of the province. Some hay fields were cut early, and some insecticides were applied as control measures. Aphids: High populations of aphids were reported from some alfalfa fields in the Interlake and near Pilot Mound (C), with insecticides being applied to a couple of these fields to control the aphids.

POTATOES (71,495 acres; 64,431 acres processing potatoes, 7,064 acres table potatoes)

Colorado Potato Beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata): It appeared numbers of Colorado potato beetle were up this year compared to lower than usual numbers in the very wet years of 2004-2005. CPB does not do particularly well in cool, wet conditions but does thrive in the type of year we had in 2006. CPB adults had emerged and commenced egg laying in early June, with hatch occurring between mid June and early July. By late July some CPB were observed in fields treated with seed-piece Admire, so foliar treatments were applied. Re-entry of CPB adults to some potato fields was observed in mid August prompting applications to field edges or spot treatments. To a small degree, growers were caught off

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guard by both the numbers and the speed with which they progressed through the juvenile stages. Another reason for more CPB this year may be because of a substantial decrease in the acreage treated with seed-piece Admire. Some use of older chemistries did not provide control due to resistance. In many cases foliar Admire or Assail was required for control. Potato leafhopper (Empoasca fabae): There were several reports of potato leafhoppers in processing potato fields. This is a bit unusual in certain respects. Typically when potato leafhoppers migrate into Manitoba we have ample warning from first alfalfa fields and then bean fields that tend to be congregated first. This year we had no such early warning indicators and the reports of leafhoppers were quite widespread to the west of the Portage la Prairie area. Each year, even in what could be considered a non-outbreak year we have fields that are sprayed due to exceeding economic thresholds and it looks like this year it was just a bit more widespread than usual. Potato Flea Beetle (Epitrix cucumeris): Feeding injury from potato flea beetle was observed by mid June but levels were generally below the economic threshold in most areas of Manitoba. The economic threshold of 10% foliage loss was exceeded in some fields in the Portage area and fields were sprayed in late July. Aphids: Aphids were detected in potatoes by June 21 and reached very high levels by early August. Although generally less of a concern in table potato production, aphid numbers were high enough this year to cause aphid holes, areas were plants collapse due to high levels of feeding by aphids. Buckthorn aphids, (Aphis nasturtii) and potato aphids (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) were the most abundant specimens collected. Green peach aphids were observed by mid-July and soybean aphids (which will probe but not colonize potato plants) were observed in early August. Seed growers treated aphids in a number of ways. Some fields had advanced quickly with tubers reaching desired size by early August so fields were desiccated. Seed growers tended to use the insecticide Fulfill, which is targeted specifically at aphids. Commercial fields often were treated with a broad spectrum insecticide to also control flea beetles and/or potato leafhoppers. European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis): In 2006, the European corn borer was not abundant in potatoes in Manitoba.

Hemp (30,630 acres for grain)

High populations of lygus bugs were reported from a hemp field near Darlingford (C), but I am not aware of any insecticide use in hemp.

ISSUES: No insecticides are registered in Canada for lygus bugs or banded sunflower moths in sunflowers, even though insecticides are registered to control these insects in the U.S. Better insect control strategies for seedhead insect, particularly strategies that minimizes harm to honeybees, are needed in sunflowers.

FUTURE PLANS: Cereal Leaf Beetle (Oulema melanopus): Monitoring for cereal leaf beetle was performed again in 2006. No evidence of cereal leaf beetle being in Manitoba was found. This monitoring program will continue in

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2007.

Literature Cited Wise, I.L. and R.J. Lamb. 2000. Seasonal occurrence of plant bugs (Hemiptera: Miridae) on oilseed flax (Linaceae) and their effect on yield.. The Canadian Entomologist. 132: 369-371.

Appendix II.

RESEARCH PROGRESS ON INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT IN BRITISH COLUMBIA - 2006

Compiled by R. S. Vernon and M. Clodius

Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre (AAFC) 6947 #7 Hwy. P.O. Box 1000

Agassiz, B.C. V0M 1A0 vernonbs@agr.gc.ca

______________________________________________________________________________ Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, PARC, Agassiz: 2006 Insect Pest Research Report Title 1: Biological control of aphid vectors of Blueberry scorch virus (BlScV) in the Fraser Valley, BC: aphid parasitoids. Author and Associates: Dave Raworth, Sneh Mathur, Daynika Schade – AAFC, PARC-Agassiz BC; Keith Pike – WSU, Prosser WA; and Lynell Tanigoshi – WSU, Vancouver WA. Problem: Blueberry scorch virus causes significant yield reductions in blueberry, depending on cultivar and virus strain. The virus is vectored by Ericaphis fimbriata, the dominant aphid on blueberry. During April, May, and June these aphids increase rapidly and there is a need for biological controls in addition to those already present. Objective of Research: to determine the nature of the aphid-parasitoid and hyperparasitoid complex on blueberry – species, phenology, population numbers; determine the potential of parasitoids to control E. fimbriata; develop a biological control program based on parasitoids (a parallel study is being conducted in Washington by Keith Pike and Lynell Tanigoshi). Summary of Results: Parasitoids that emerged from mummies collected in weekly blueberry foliage samples during 2002 and 2003 have been identified. During 2005 and 2006, parasitoids and hyperparasitoids were obtained from weekly and bi-weekly samples of aphids from organic and conventional fields. These are being identified. Continuing Research: Alternative approaches to regulate aphids and their behaviour are being examined, including biological (parasitoids), increasing leaf reflectance, and timing and type of chemical. Contact: Dr. David A. Raworth Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 213) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: raworthd@agr.gc.ca

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Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 Title 2: Analysis of classical biological control of cabbage seedpod weevil in British Columbia Author and Associates: D.R. Gillespie1, P.G. Mason2, L.M. Dosdall3, P. Bouchard2 and G.A.P. Gibson2 1AAFC, Research Centre, Agassiz, British Columbia, V0M 1A0 2AAFC, Research Centre, 960 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1A 0C6 3 University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2P5 Problem: In the past decade, cabbage seedpod weevil (CSW), Ceutorhynchus obstrictus has emerged as a serious pest of canola from Alberta to Quebec. Classical biological control of this pest must be considered. A previous biological control release against CSW in the Vancouver area of British Columbia was less than successful. It is not known if the European species released in 1949 against CSW established or persisted in the Vancouver area. No follow-up studies were done at the time of release. None of the introduced European species is present in other areas of North America where CSW is present. Objective of Research: The objectives of the research were 1) to determine if the three parasitoid species released against CSW in BC had established; and 2) to evaluate the impact of these species on CSW populations. Summary of Results: Three species, Trichomalus perfectus, Mesopolobus morys, and Stenomalina gracilis were originally released in 1949, near Chilliwack and Dewdney, BC. Surveys on Brassica napus, B. rapa and R. raphanistrum at 20 nearby sites revealed that only S. gracilis had established. The other major parasitoids were Trichomalus lucidus a Holarctic species and Mesopolobus moryoides a Nearctic species. Both S. gracilis and T. lucidus are, however, minor parasitoids of CSW in Europe, but are common on other, related weevil species. In our surveys, parasitism was mostly less than 5%, and reached 30% at one site only. In Europe, parasitism by T. perfectus and M. morys often exceeds 90%. The existing parasitoids did not appear to regulate CSW populations in the survey area, and the one exotic parasitoid, S. gracilis, did not dominate the parasitoid community. Releases of T. perfectus and/or M. morys should be considered. Redistribution of S. gracilis should not be pursued. Continuing Research: Any parasitoid species proposed for release against CSW in Canada will be evaluated for host specificity, to define the risks to non-target organisms. The presence of S. gracilis and two congeners of the primary European parasitoids of CSW provides an opportunity to use host ranges of parasitoids already in North America, to select appropriate non-target species from among the endemic weevil complex in North America. Contact: David R. Gillespie Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada/Agriculture et Agroalimentaire Canada POB 1000, 6947 # 7 Highway Agassiz, British Columbia V0M 1A0 GillespieD@agr.gc.ca Title 3: Evaluating various insecticides for control of the wireworm Agriotes obscurus in potatoes.

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Author and Associates: Bob Vernon, Markus Clodius and Victoria Brookes (AAFC, Agassiz). Problem: The European wireworms, Agriotes obscurus and A. lineatus, are insects of major concern to the potato industry in B.C. and Nova Scotia. Other wireworm species are causing increasing problems in other major potato growing provinces of Canada. Growers have traditionally applied granular insecticides for control of this pest, and during the past decade have relied almost exclusively on the organophosphate Thimet (phorate). Thimet, however, was withdrawn from B.C. for environmental reasons in 1997, and will be gone from Canada as soon as a suitable replacement can be found. The testing of new lower risk insecticides and alternative approaches for wireworm control in potatoes is a priority with the PMRA and AAFC, and is the focus of a 1 year Improving Farming Systems and Practices (IFSP) research grant. Objective of Research: Insecticides for control of European wireworms in potatoes were evaluated in a field at the Pacific Agri-Food research Center in Agassiz, B.C. in 2006. Additional sites were also established near London, ONT, (Dr. Jeff Tolman, AAFC), Charlottetown, PEI (Dr. Christine Noronha) and Saskatoon, SASK (Dr. Doug Waterer) (not reported here). In Agassiz, insecticidal formulations (18 treatments) were applied to seeding furrows as granules (phorate; halofenozide), as in-furrow sprays (IFS) (chlorpyrifos; DPX E2Y45; HGW86 10SC) or as potato seed treatments (PST) (imidacloprid; clothianidin; thiamethoxam; DPX E2Y45; HGW86 10SC), as combined treatments (chlorpyrifos IFS + clothianidin or thiamethoxam PST), and as wheat seed treatments (confidential) applied in-furrow at planting as an attract-and-kill strategy. Summary of Results: Two harvests will be carried out in 2006 (100 and 120 days after planting), the first of which has been completed and is currently being graded. High levels of wireworm damage have been recorded in the first 2 replicates of the untreated control plots, which should be even higher at the 120 day harvest. This indicates that this trial will yield significant differences among treatments and will provide a robust test of the various treatments tested. Of the various insecticides and application methods tested over the past 5 years, it appears that Poncho and Cruiser as seed piece treatments are the strongest candidates for either Full or Minor Use Registrations in the future. A complicating factor in recommending neonicotinoids as wireworm controls, however, is that control appears to be through long term wireworm intoxication in the field, rather than mortality. High levels of wireworm population recovery have been observed in all neonicotinoid treatment plots in our 2003-2005 potato studies, which is the subject of an additional report below. In addition, efficacy studies in potatoes conducted in Ontario and Nova Scotia in 2005, suggest that these neonicotinoids may not be as effective on wireworms in those regions (respectively, Melanotus spp., and A. sputator). The 2006 studies in the other areas of Canada mentioned above, which included Poncho and Cruiser as seed piece treatments, will provide additional efficacy data on additional species. Continuing Research: It is expected that this work will continue for at least one more year. Contact: Dr. Bob Vernon Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 212)

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Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: vernonbs@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 Title 4: Evaluating various insecticides for control of the wireworm Agriotes obscurus in wheat. Author and Associates: Bob Vernon, Markus Clodius, Wim van Herk, Chantelle Harding (AAFC, Agassiz). Problem: Various species of wireworms are known to cause serious damage to cereal crops across Canada. Problems with wireworms in general are increasing in many Canadian farming systems, especially on the prairies where cereal crops abound. This increase in damage has been attributed, at least in part, to the loss of the organochlorine insecticide lindane as a cereal and forage crop seed treatment. Studies have been underway at PARC, Agassiz since 1996 to find lower risk insecticides to replace lindane. Objective of Research: Between 2002-2006, studies in Agassiz have focused on a number of low risk (imidacloprid, clothianidin, thiamethoxam) to moderate risk (fipronil) candidate insecticides as seed treatments for management of the dusky wireworm, Agriotes obscurus, in wheat. In addition, various combinations of insecticides have also been tested in attempts to improve efficacy and reduce wireworm numbers to levels achieved by the former lindane seed treatments. Efficacy is measured by observing the indirect impacts of wireworms on the crop (i.e. crop stand establishment and yield), as well as the direct effects of candidate insecticides on wireworm populations (i.e. examinations of wireworms from plots, and population levels in plots the following spring). The focus has been on products that have current or pending registration status in Canada (i.e. clothianidin and thiamethoxam) to facilitate pursuit of Full, Emergency, or Minor Use registrations in cereals for wireworm control. Summary of Results: Measurements of crop stand establishment over time and yield at harvest suggest clothianidin and thiamethoxam are effective materials for suppression of wireworm damage. Sampling of wireworms in these plots the following year, however, showed that wireworm populations are not significantly lower than in the check plots. As mentioned in other reports, wireworms exposed to neonicotinoids (in this case on wheat seed) become intoxicated long enough for the crop to become established, but then they fully recover later in the season. Reduction in numbers of neonate wireworms was also low in these trials relative to lindane treated seeds, suggesting that neonicotinoids would not provide the longer term wireworm control experienced with lindane treatments. In past, growers would only have to plant lindane-treated crops of wheat once every 3-4 years. These studies also suggest that fipronil seed treatments will provide excellent crop stand protection as well as virtual eradication of wireworm populations. The 2006 studies have focused on evaluating fipronil at lower rates to determine the lowest effective dose to both protect the crop and significantly reduce wireworm populations. This trial will be completed in 2007 when the 2006 plots are re-sampled to determine wireworm survivorship. Continuing Research: It is expected that this work will continue for at least one more year.

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Contact: Dr. Bob Vernon Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 212) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: vernonbs@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 Title 5: Wireworm recovery in wheat and potato plantings after exposure to fipronil and various neonicotinoid insecticides. Author and Associates: Bob Vernon, Wim van Herk and Markus Clodius (AAFC, Agassiz) Problem: Protection of various crops (i.e. potatoes, corn, cereals) from wireworm damage using insecticides is generally assumed to be due to wireworm mortality. In the past, growers who have applied insecticides such as lindane and phorate to their crops have correctly assumed that wireworm populations would be reduced for the following growing season or seasons. Most of these traditional insecticides, however, are now gone, and it appears the likely replacements will be various neonicotinoids such as Poncho (= clothianidin) or Cruiser (= thiamethoxam). In recent LC50 and LD50 lab studies conducted on Agriotes obscurus, Ctenicera pruinina and Limonius canus, however, it was found that the leading neonicotinoids put wireworms into an immediate state of intoxication, rendering them immobile, which could often last for several months. These lab data suggest that crops (i.e. potatoes, corn and cereals) treated with neonicotinoids may experience stand or crop quality ‘protection’ without actual wireworm population reduction occurring. This is important in that wireworm populations would not be kept in long term check as they were with the former insecticides (i.e. lindane). Objective of Research: Wheat and potato insecticide efficacy studies conducted in 2003, 2004 and 2005 were sampled for surviving wireworms with bait traps in the subsequent year to determine if wireworm populations in the various treatment plots had decreased relative to check plots. Summary of Results: In the 2003 and 2004 wheat efficacy trials, fipronil provided excellent stand protection, and populations of wireworms in bait traps the following year were close to zero. Fipronil was not tested in 2005. In the 2003, 2004 and 2005 wheat efficacy studies, populations of wireworms the following year in the neonicotinoid treatments (including imidacloprid, clothianidin and thiamethoxam) were not significantly lower than in the check plots, even though wheat stand protection was excellent in the previous year. Of interest is that survivorship of larger wireworms in lindane-treated wheat (= Vitavax Dual) plots was similar to the neonicotinoids, but the numbers of small (neonates in treatment year) wireworms in the lindane treatments were quite low. This suggests lindane treated cereal crops would provide better long term wireworm control in fields than the neonicotinoids. In the 2003-2005 potato efficacy trials, similar results were obtained with fipronil and the neonicotinoids as in the wheat trials. Continuing Research: The wheat and potato efficacy trials conducted in 2006 will be sampled for wireworm populations in April, 2007.

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Contact: Dr. Bob Vernon Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 212) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 - 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: vernonbs@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 Title 6: Recovery of wireworms after temporary exposure to insecticide-treated wheat. Author and Associates: Wim van Herk, Bob Vernon (AAFC, Agassiz) Problem: Exposing wireworms to wheat seeds treated with tefluthrin in soil-based bioassays causes a temporary malaise in wireworms. Little is known about the time required for wireworms to become ill and/or recover when they contact tefluthrin, or if subsequent contact causes longer illness or mortality. Development of new insecticide-based management strategies for wireworms requires an understanding of the direct effects of tefluthrin and other insecticides on wireworms. Objective of Research: To determine if the Pacific Coast wireworm, Limonius canus LeConte, is able to recover after direct contact for different durations with wheat seeds treated with tefluthrin at various concentrations, and if repeated exposures affect the time required for wireworms to recover. Summary of Results: Wireworms make a full recovery after a temporary illness caused by brief contact with wheat seeds treated with tefluthrin. The recovery period increases with both the duration of exposure to and the concentration of the chemical. Wireworms recover more quickly when re-exposed to the same chemical. Continuing Research: Additional bioassays are planned for 2007. Contact: Wim van Herk Tel: (604) 796-2221 (local 234) Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre Fax: (604) 796-0359 P.O. Box 1000 – 6947 #7 Highway e-mail: vanherkw@agr.gc.ca Agassiz, BC. V0M 1A0 _____________________________________________________________________________ Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, PARC Summerland: 2006 Insect Pest Research Report Not currently available _____________________________________________________________________________ British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Lands: 2006 Insect Research Report Not currently available

2006 Alberta Research Report Compiled by Héctor Cárcamo

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Lethbridge Research Centre

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1. Title: Integration of technologies to manage wheat stem sawfly in durum and hard red spring wheat.

Author and Associates: Brian Beres and Héctor Cárcamo. Problem:

The wheat stem sawfly is currently the most important insect pest in Alberta and Saskatchewan, and unlike the grasshopper, it cannot be controlled by pesticides. The entire value chain can be affected by wheat stem sawfly damage as severely infested wheat may have reduced milling properties and be down-graded due to reduced volume density. More than 5 M hectares in Canada are at risk of infestation by the wheat stem sawfly. The geographic distribution of the wheat stem sawfly is large enough to disrupt supply of the high quality bread wheat and durum export markets.

The use of solid-stemmed varieties is the only established control strategy. However, industry uptake of solid-stemmed varieties continues to be low. The primary reason is that the hollow-stemmed varieties are perceived to be better performing varieties in terms of yield and protein. In addition, the trait for resistance ie. stem solidness is influenced greatly by environmental factors, which results in greater cutting than what is considered acceptable for a solid-stemmed variety. There are also operational concerns with the use of solid-stemmed varieties as some producers feel that the solid stem in a resistant cultivar results in more wear and tear on the combine.

Certain market classes or market opportunities do not allow the producer to use solid-stemmed cultivars. Variety specific or identity preserved programs continue to expand, and to date, solid-stemmed varieties continue to be excluded from the programs. Therefore, the varieties used in programs to date have been hollow-stemmed varieties with very good yield potential and excellent protein content like AC Barrie or CDC Teal. This creates a dilemma for producers in production areas prone to sawfly attack that want to participate in identity preservation programs or grow a class of wheat such as durum which does not currently have a solid-stemmed variety available. Using a susceptible variety exposes the producer to greater business risk as sawfly damage results in lower yields and reductions in grade to due lower test weights. These issues necessitate that we direct some of our research efforts in sawfly toward the development of sustainable production practices that reduce the risk of growing hollow stemmed varieties in areas prone to attack.

Objective of Research:

1) Determine the impact of re-cropping infested stubble on the population dynamics of both the wheat stem sawfly and the natural enemies of the wheat stem sawfly. 2) Develop and assess harvest management strategies to enhance populations of natural enemies. 3) Determine the influence of seeding rate on pith expression in the culm of solid-stemmed wheat cultivars and sawfly damage. 4) Conservation and enhancement of parasitoids to reduce sawfly damage in order to diversify control options, i.e. to reduce dependence on a single strategy such as solid stemmed-wheat. 5) Determine efficacy of insecticide seed treatments to control wheat stem sawfly and non-target environmental effects on natural enemies of the sawfly.

Summary of Results: Field experiments were established at Coalhurst, AB and Nobleford, AB. Preliminary results will be available next year. Continuing Research: This study is in progress and will continue for another two years.

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Contact: Brian Beres 2. Title: Population dynamics of the wheat stem sawfly: top-down vs bottom-up effects on fitness

Author and Associates: Héctor Cárcamo, Brian Beres, Cassidy Klima and John Spence. Problem: Populations of herbivorous insects are regulated by a combination of abiotic and biotic factors. The latter result from variability in quality of resources exploited by the herbivore (bottom-up) and mortality inflicted by natural enemies (top-down). The wheat stem sawfly, as one of the best studied insect pest systems, provides an ideal model to quantify the relative strengths of these forces in regulating population size. Resource quality in the form of solid-stemmed and hollowed-stemmed cultivars and varying levels of stem thickness and mortality inflicted by its main natural enemy Bracon cephi can be readily measured. Objective of Research: To partition sawfly mortality caused by host quality vs B. cephi parasitism thereby assessing the relative effects of bottom-up vs top-down factors. Summary of Results: Preliminary results from the field season in 2006 suggest little variation in host quality as a result of environmental conditions; on the other hand there were high levels of sawfly mortality from B. cephi. A laboratory protocol is being developed to experimentally test the role of host quality on sawfly fitness and sex ratio. Continuing Research: This study is in progress and will continue for another 2 years.

Contact: Héctor A. Cárcamo

3. Title: Seasonal activity of the parasitoid Bracon cephi and its host the wheat stem sawfly (WSSF) in southern Alberta

Author and Associates: Cassidy Klima, Héctor Cárcamo, Brian Beres, and John Spence. Problem: Although the phenology (seasonal activity) of the WSSF is well documented, less has been reported on its natural enemy Bracon cephi. Improving our understanding of the phenology of this beneficial will assist to develop management practices that will maximize its contributions as a control agent Objective of Research: To survey and document host/parasitoid interactions including possible size selection, seasonal development and overall status of Bracon cephi populations in resistant and susceptible spring wheat cultivars.

Summary of Results: Summary of results: Preliminary results for 2006 show significant populations of Bracon cephi in survey plots with appreciable rates of sawfly mortality. Adult Bracon cephi were detected in the field from late June until mid September. Preliminary analyses of parasitism rates indicate high levels. In most cases the trend is upwards of 90%. Early visual analysis indicates a selection bias by Bracon cephi towards parasitizing larger-sized WSS larva.

Continuing Research: This study is in progress and will continue for another 1-2 years.

Contact: Cassidy Klima or H. Cárcamo

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4. Title: Phenology of lygus bugs and their nymphal parasitoids in southern Alberta.

Author and Associates: H. Cárcamo, C. Herle, J. Otani and H. Goulet.

Problem: Lygus bugs are pest generalists attacking several valuable crops such as canola and alfalfa. So far the only management alternative available is the application of insecticides. Before a biocontrol agent can be considered for lygus bugs, it is necessary to study the biology of lygus and its native parasitoids in more detail. Objective of Research: To quantify the phenology of adult and juvenile lygus and nymphal parasitoids in various crops and non crop habitats in southern Alberta, including early spring weeds, alfalfa and non agricultural areas. Summary of Results: From 1999 to 2006 we have sampled flixweed, hoary cress, stinkweed, alfalfa and canola to determine seasonal activity of lygus bugs and nymphs from May to October. In 2006 Lygus sp. (nymphs and adults) and Adelphocoris sp. (nymphs and adults) were dissected on a regular basis from two alfalfa, one grass/alfalfa, one canola, and a city park with cruciferous weeds. Preliminary results suggest that parasitism rates in alfalfa during peak parasitoid activity may reach around 50 % or more in the first generation of Lygus nymphs but are lower for the second generation. Parasitized Lygus sp. adults were found in a canola field adjacent to an established alfalfa field by mid July and in one of the alfalfa sites. The parasitism rate of Adelphocoris sp. nymphs reached around 30% for the first generation and was much lower for the second generation. No Adelphocoris sp. adults were found to be parasitized. Continuing Research: The study will continue with more emphasis on quantifying the average seasonal rates of parasitism in lygus in adjacent alfalfa and canola and effects of strip cutting of alfalfa on parasitism rates.

Contact: Héctor A. Cárcamo

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Beaverlodge Research Farm

5. Title: Canola insect surveying - On the lookout for cabbage seedpod weevil and monitoring Lygus in the Peace River region. Author and Associates: J.K. Otani, O. Olfert, D. Giffen. Problem: Annual monitoring for the weevil commenced in 1997 in Alberta but in 2003 surveying was also performed in the Peace River region. Since then, annual insect surveying has been performed at full flower stages in the Peace River region in order to detect movement of the weevil north plus identify damaging populations of other canola insect pests occurring in commercial fields. Objective of Research: 1. To detect the movement of cabbage seedpod weevil into canola production in the Peace River region. 2. To assess Lygus populations at full-flower stage of canola development. 3. To determine the species composition of Lygus occurring in canola.

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Summary of Results: No cabbage seedpod weevils were present for the fourth year in the 90 canola fields surveyed within the Peace River region between July 4-17 of 2006 by staff from the Beaverlodge Research Farm and Fort Vermilion Research Farm of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Lygus bug populations were generally low with numbers below the economic threshold at late flower stage. The exception occurred in isolated fields monitored in the Grande Prairie, Hythe, Dawson Creek, Rycroft and Falher areas. The 2006 lygus bug surveying map for the Peace River region has been posted by ACPC on their website (http://www.canola.ab.ca/research/otani06.shtml). Small numbers of Bertha armyworm, clover cutworms, and diamondback moths were also present in our sweep-net surveying at late flower in canola. Continuing Research: Insect surveying in canola will continue annually in the Peace River region. When resources and time permit, early Lygus numbers will be released to industry and extension persons to supplement monitoring for this pest. Contact: Jennifer Otani 6. Title: Investigating insect-related damage in red clover seed crops. Author and Associates: J.K. Otani Problem: Fields of second-year red clover in the Peace River region were severely affected by unidentified insect pests in 2005. Fields in apparently healthy condition failed to produce their expected seed and suspicious insect larvae resembling Coleophora deauratella (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae), an European species, were present within flower heads. Past introductions of C. deauratella to Quebec in 1983 (Landry 1991) and Ontario in 1991 (Landry 1991; Landry and Wright 1993) were documented by later seed yield losses in both red and alsike clover grown in Ontario (Ellis and Bjornson 1996). In 2006, significant yield losses have occurred in first- and second-year seed stands of red clover in the Peace River region. Study Objectives 1. To obtain specimens and identify the pest insect(s) in red clover causing floret and seed damage. 2. To obtain biological data on pest(s) lifecycle and host plant utilization. 3. To investigate control methods that protect yield losses and minimize impact on honeybee and

leafcutter bee activities (e.g., pollination, honey production). Summary of Results: Field crop residues collected from fields near Falher, Alberta, on 18 May 2006 yielded newly emerged metallic-bronze moths with a green sheen, each measuring ~10mm long on 27 June 2006. These adult specimens were confirmed by Dr. Jean-Francois Landry (AAFC-Ottawa) as Coleophora deauratella Zeller, the red clover casebearer. Sweep-net collections were performed weekly between mid-May to August in four red clover and two alsike clover seed fields located near Falher. These samples will be processed during the fall/winter and should reveal the duration of the moth flight period while also providing estimates of populations occurring within fields. Flower heads were collected from the above fields throughout the growing season and winter dissections of this material should reveal the phenology of casebearer larval activity plus how larvae damage flower heads and developing clover seed. A small field plot trial investigating the effect of deltamethrin (Decis®) and spinosad (Success™ 480 SC) applied at early flower (5-10% bloom) or mid-flower (50% bloom) was performed in a commercial field and complete yield data will be available by early November. Preliminary yield data has not been

35

encouraging; untreated control plots are yielding between 0.3-0.7 gm/m² while yields from insecticide treatments vary widely producing between 19.8-33.3 gm/m² in comparison to healthy, typical second-year red clover seed stands that might produce 28.0-39.3 gm/m². Coincidentally, recent personal communications with beekeepers suggests that honey flow was quite low from fields infested with red clover casebearers. These early results, complicated by pollination and honey production issues, promise for new challenges in red clover seed production. Continuing Research: Yield data will be obtained by early November and flower head dissections will be completed during the winter. A second season of field surveying and a larger field plot study will be conducted in 2007. Contact information: OTANI, Jennifer, M.Sc.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Beaverlodge Research Farm P.O. Box 29 Beaverlodge, Alberta T0H 0C0 Tel. 780-354-5132 Fax. 780-354-8171

E-mail: otanij@agr.gc.ca

University of Alberta Edmonton

1. Title: Development of Canola Resistant to the Cabbage Seedpod Weevil

Author and Associates: L. Dosdall, L. Kott, V. Ripley, J. Tansey, A. Keddie Problem: Infestations of cabbage seedpod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Marsham) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) pose a threat to the sustainable production of canola in Alberta. Significant damage to flower buds is caused by overwintered adults, and the problem is exacerbated by larval feeding on developing seeds. Larval exit holes may be invaded by fungal pathogens, with damage to many more ripening seeds. Late in the season, new generation adults feed on ripening pods, also causing significant crop damage. Development of canola resistant to the weevil would enhance the sustainability of canola production, and this strategy also fits well with other integrated cultural, biological, and chemical control approaches. Objective of Research: To develop and field-test canola germplasm resistant to attack by the weevil developed by intergeneric crosses with resistant (Sinapis alba) and susceptible (Brassica napus) parental genotypes. The primary goal of this research is to deliver cabbage seedpod weevil-resistant canola germplasm to canola breeders in the commercial and public sectors. This will require introgression of biologically sourced resistance into elite canola germplasm, coordinated with cyclic field screening and molecular marker development for rapid incorporation of target genes. Specifically, our objectives are to develop molecular markers in canola germplasm associated with cabbage seedpod weevil resistance proven through both field and laboratory assessments; to determine the mechanism of resistance to weevil attack through evaluations of behavioral differences preceding egg laying in resistant and susceptible germplasm by mated, gravid females; to determine larval developmental biology of the weevil in relation to Brassica genotypes with differing

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biochemical pathways; and to identify the major biochemical pathway(s) involved with weevil attraction or repulsion to susceptible and resistant genotypes. Summary of Results: In field assessments, mean exit holes per pod in the common commercial variety, B. napus cv. Q2, ranged from ca. 2.5 to 8.3 times more than those observed in the resistant lines. Some genotypes appeared to exhibit both antixenotic and antibiotic resistance to C. obstrictus, as indicated by fewer eggs laid per pod and larval development that was significantly lengthened in the resistant germplasm compared with the B. napus check. Introgression produced several genotypes with resistance to cabbage seedpod weevil that can now be crossed with agronomically superior B. napus germplasm. Continuing Research: This project will continue for three years. Contact: Lloyd M. Dosdall

2. Title: Improving Integrated Crop Management Through Intercropping

Author and Associates: L. Dosdall, J. Hummel, G. Clayton, N. Harker, J. O’Donovan, K. Turkington, J. DeMulder. Problem: Insect pest outbreaks are often exacerbated by the practice of growing crops in monocultures. Heterogenous systems offer greater opportunities for harboring populations of natural enemies, and for root systems of different crop species to exploit different areas of the soil profile. The practice of intercropping has been little studied in western Canada, and offers considerable potential for lowering densities of herbivore pest populations. Objective of Research: To evaluate intercrops of canola and cereal crops for improved insect pest management. Summary of Results: Intercrops of barley with canola, and wheat with canola have shown comparable or better yields than either crop in monoculture. Preliminary results suggest that intercropped systems were still subjected to considerable damage by flea beetles; however, root maggot infestations appeared to be reduced in intercropped systems. The carabid beetle fauna was found to vary with different levels of mixtures of canola and cereals. Continuing Research: This project was undertaken at Ellerslie, Lacombe, and Fort Vermillion. The field work has recently been completed and the results are now being compiled for publication. This is the main thesis research of graduate student, Jeremy Hummel. Contact: Lloyd Dosdall

2. Title: Surveys for the Distribution and Abundance of Cereal Leaf Beetle in Southern Alberta

Author and Associates: L. Dosdall, H. Cárcamo, and S. Meers with other researchers to be added if the project becomes expanded to deal with integrated management of the beetle. Problem: The cereal leaf beetle is an alien, invasive insect pest native to Europe that was first discovered in Alberta in 2005. It apparently invaded from Montana, and attacks wheat, barley, oats, rye, and corn. In the U.S.A. crop losses without control measures have been documented at 55% in spring wheat, 23% in winter wheat, and 75% in oats and barley. Application of the CLIMEX model to the cereal leaf beetle invasion predicted that it will eventually infest the entire region of cereal

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production throughout the prairies and parkland of western Canada. American scientists familiar with this pest predict that our farmers will need to control the beetle with insecticide within 2-3 years. Objective of Research: The objectives of the project are to determine the spatial distribution and relative abundance of the cereal leaf beetle throughout southern Alberta; to determine the life history of the cereal leaf beetle under western Canadian cropping conditions, especially its overwintering biology, the timing of its invasion of crops, and factors affecting its population dynamics; and to monitor cereal leaf beetle populations for the presence of parasite species that may have invaded along with the pest, and for native parasite species that switch from their normal hosts to attack it. Summary of Results: Approximately 200 cereal fields were surveyed throughout southern Alberta in 2006, within a geographical area extending from the Trans-Canada Highway south to the U.S.A. border, east to the Saskatchewan border, and west to the Rocky Mountains. Cereal leaf beetle adults and larvae were found in several locations surrounding Lethbridge, but populations were not abundant or causing extensive crop damage at any of the sample sites. Continuing Research: It is hoped that the survey can continue during 2007, but this will be dependent on obtaining external survey funding. Contact: Lloyd Dosdall

Olds College Olds

1. Title: Integrated crop management of black currants in Alberta.

Author and Associates: Ken Fry (OC), Ieuan Evans (Agri-Trend), Ron Howard (AAFRD), Chris Neeser (AAFRD), Ron Cuthbert (OC), and Dan Fullerton (OC) Problem: Powdery mildew resistant varieties, natural resistance to birds, deer and mouse browsing, and suitability to prairie climate are all factors greatly favouring black currant production in Alberta. Major hurdles to production are insect pests and a lack of integrated crop management tools under Alberta growing conditions. Objective of Research: We propose to develop an integrated production program for black currants in Alberta. The objectives are 1) assess and refine chemical and biological control methods for insect pests and pursue minor use registration or label expansion of effective products, 2) to diagnose and test control measures for plant disease, especially white pine blister rust, and 3) to refine current agronomic practices to optimize plant growth and yield. Summary of Results: For the insect work, the currant fruit fly has been moderately abundant and damaging in central Alberta orchards in recent years but was not abundant in 2006. Currant fruit flies emerge from overwintering in late April-early May, coincident with flowering in currants. Efficacy trials of spinosad have been conducted with a data package forwarded to PMRA in support of a minor use label expansion for berry crops. Pacific spidermites were most abundant in cv Tirran. Efficacy of predators for suppression of Pacific spidermites was assessed using releases in test orchards. The predatory mite, Neoseiulus fallacis was more effective than Stethorus punctum in trials conducted in 2003-2004. Neoseiulus fallacis and Feltiella acarisuga were evaluated in 2005 and 2006 with N. fallacis reducing Pacific spidermite density significantly more than F. acarisuga and control

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treatments. The currant aphid Cryptomyzus ribis, and the sowthistle aphid, Hyperomyzus lactucae, are the two most prominent aphid species. The predator and parasitoid complex associated with these pests is being characterised. No parasitioids for either aphid species has been detected. Continuing Research: This is the final year of a two year project funded by NSERC. It follows on from a three year project funded by AARI, ACIDF and A&FC. Contact: Ken Fry

Contact Information

AGRICULTURE AND AGRI-FOOD CANADA

Lethbridge Research Centre

BERES, Brian. M.Sc. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lethbridge Research Centre P.O. Box 3000 Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4B1 Tel. 403-317-2251 Fax. 403-382-3156 E-mail: beresb@agr.gc.ca

Lethbridge Research Centre CÁRCAMO, Héctor, Ph.D. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lethbridge Research Centre P.O. Box 3000 Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4B1 Tel. 403-317-2247 Fax. 403-382-3156 E-mail: carcamoH@agr.gc.ca

Beaverlodge Research Farm OTANI, Jennifer, M.Sc. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Beaverlodge Research Farm P.O. Box 29 Beaverlodge, Alberta T0H 0C0 Tel. 780-354-5132 Fax. 780-354-8171 E-mail: otanij@agr.gc.ca

ALBERTA AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

University of Alberta

DOSDALL, Lloyd M., Ph.D. Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science 4-10 Agriculture / Forestry Centre University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2P5 Tel. 780-492-6893 Fax. 780-492-4265 E-mail: lloyd.dosdall@ualberta.ca

OLDS COLLEGE

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Olds FRY, Ken, Ph.D. Instructor Olds College 4500, 50th St Olds T4H 1R6 Tel (403) 556 8261; Fax (403) 556 4713 Email: kfry@oldscollege.ca

2006 Saskatchewan Research Report Winnipeg, MB, Oct. 16, 2006

Compiled by Chrystel Olivier

SASKATCHEWAN ALFALFA SEED PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION 2006 INSECT PEST RESEARCH REPORT

Title: Research on parasitoids and diseases in Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Author: D.W. Goerzen Problem: The alfalfa leafcutting bee, Megachile rotundata, is an important pollinator of alfalfa for seed production in western Canada. Infestations of a chalcid parasitoid, Pteromalus venustus, are currently a problem in some alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Another factor which may limit alfalfa leafcutting bee production is chalkbrood disease, Ascosphaera aggregata. Objective of Research: This research project is designed to evaluate parasitoid and disease levels in Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations, and to develop management strategies which will assist alfalfa seed producers in maintaining high quality alfalfa leafcutting bee populations in order to enhance alfalfa seed production and increase the value of the bees in export markets. Summary of Results: Occurrence of the chalcid parasitoid, P. venustus, was evaluated in the 2005 - 2006 winter survey of alfalfa leafcutting bee populations in Saskatchewan. The chalcid parasitoid was detected in 0.53% (sd 1.13, range 0.0 - 6.12%) of bee cells analysed from samples submitted by alfalfa seed producers. P. venustus was present in 51.8% of alfalfa leafcutting bee populations surveyed. Chalcid parasitoids have traditionally been controlled during the spring alfalfa leafcutting bee incubation period with dichlorvos-impregnated resin strips; however, dichlorvos has been implicated in alfalfa leafcutting bee mortality and this compound is also among the organophosphate insecticides currently under review by the EPA. For this reason, parasitoid control research has been undertaken on various alternative compounds including pyrethrin aerosol formulations. Field-scale experiments involving a comparison of the efficacy of pyrethrin aerosol formulation KN418 with the efficacy of dichlorvos resin

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strips for control of chalcid parasitoids has demonstrated that use of pyrethrin aerosol resulted in low or undetectable levels of alfalfa leafcutting bee cell re-parasitism (0.0 - 0.18%) and undetectable levels of alfalfa leafcutting bee pupal mortality due to parasitoid stinging. Use of dichlorvos resulted in levels of alfalfa leafcutting bee cell re-parasitism as high as 0.53%, combined with 0.70 - 1.59% alfalfa leafcutting bee pupal mortality due to parasitoid stinging, and an additional 0.88 - 0.96% alfalfa leafcutting bee pupal mortality due to dichlorvos exposure. Occurrence of chalkbrood disease (A. aggregata) was also evaluated in the 2005 - 2006 Saskatchewan winter survey of alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. The disease was present at an extremely low level in both sporulating and non-sporulating forms (sporulating chalkbrood - 0.002% overall, sd 0.019, range 0.0 - 0.15%; non-sporulating chalkbrood - 0.002% overall, sd 0.019, range 0.0 - 0.15%). A related, though significantly less virulent, Ascosphaera species (A. larvis) was present at a higher level (1.83% overall, sd 2.51, range 0.0 - 11.0%) in the survey. Paraformaldehyde fumigation and bleach dipping of leafcutting bee nest material / leafcutting bee cells will provide effective control of a broad range of microflora, including Ascosphaera spp., which contaminate alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Additional compounds are currently being evaluated for their efficacy in control of microflora in alfalfa leafcutting bee nest material. These disinfectant compounds (IosanTM, ModyneTM, ProfilmTM, and Ster-BacTM) are registered for use in agricultural applications including surface decontamination. Preliminary research has indicated that spray application of these compounds at low rates on alfalfa leafcutting bee nest material surfaces prior to field deployment will reduce build-up of microflora in alfalfa leafcutting bee populations. Incubation tests of alfalfa leafcutting bee prepupae within cells harvested from nest material treated with these disinfectant compounds have indicated no adverse affects on the progeny of adult bees nesting in the treated material. Continuing Research: Research to monitor parasitoid and disease levels in Saskatchewan alfalfa leafcutting bee populations, and to develop management strategies which will assist alfalfa seed producers in controlling these problems, is ongoing. Contact: D.W Goerzen Saskatchewan Alfalfa Seed Producers Association 127 E - 116 Research Drive Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R3 e-mail: goerzenw@innovationplace.com

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Saskatoon Research Center

1. Title: Impact of agroforestry habitats, such as windbreaks, on arthropod biodiversity and on key pest and beneficial insects in adjacent agricultural crops. Author and Associates: Bruce Broadbent, Owen Olfert, Peter Mason, Henri Goulet, M. Braun

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Problem: Management strategies for control of insect pests have broadened into the concept of ecological pest management and are no longer focused only on the pest species complex. The conservation of species biodiversity through habitat management, plant structure, and plant diversity can positively impact our ability to manage pest species. Field boundary habitats harbour many insects, spiders and mites, which include both pest and beneficial species. Our hypothesis is that these boundary and windbreak habitats can influence the microclimate and increase plant diversity thus promoting populations of beneficial arthropods. Objective of Research: To investigate the diversity and abundance of arthropods that are associated with agroforestry buffers in terms of whether they provide an enhancement to adjacent cropland by providing biocontrol agents or pose an economic risk by providing a refugia for pests and pathogens. Summary of Results: This three-study will be wrapped up in 2007. Two sites were established in ON with alfalfa, and three sites in SK with canola. Basically the project used a split-plot design treed border vs no trees adjacent to the fields. Arthropods were sampled using pitfalls, sweeps, pan traps. Sampling was conducted at 3 stages of growth: pre-boldt; full bloom; podding. Three transects, 50 m apart, were established and at 20, 40, 60 m into the field, in the shelterbelt and in the margin. The alfalfa sites focussed mainly on lygus bugs, parasitic hymenoptera, predators, and pollinators. The canola sites focussed on ground beetles, hymenoptera, pollinators, lygus, cabbage seed pod weevil. Arthropods are being sorted and identified to the species level for a few key species within representative guilds, such as herbivores, predators, parasitoids and pollinators. Results to date indicate a significant higher number of carabid species in the fields with tree borders than without. Continuing Research: Future plans are to complete the identification of the guilds of interest, to document biodiversity of both pest and beneficial species, and to determine influence of agro-ecosystems with, and without, treed margins on species abundance and diversity Contact: Name O. Olfert Agency AAFC-Saskatoon Mailing address 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK. S7N 0X2 E-mail olferto@agr.gc.ca

2. Title: Potential distribution and relative abundance of swede midge,Contarinia nasturtii, an invasive pest in Canada. Author and Associates: O. Olfert, R.Hallett, R. Weiss, J. Soroka and S. Goodfellow Problem: The swede midge, Contarinia nasturtii(Kieffer) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), is a pest of most cultivated Brassicaceae such as canola, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. The species primarily has a Palaearctic distribution and occurs throughout Europe and south western Asia to the Caucasus. The recent introduction of this pest to North America presents a risk to widely grown cruciferous crops.

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Between 1996 and 1999, producers of cruciferous vegetables in Ontario, Canada, reported crop damage that was consistent with damage symptoms characteristic of C. nasturtii feeding and in 2000, field studies confirmed that this damage was caused by C. nasturtii. Objective of Research: The objective of the study was to develop a bioclimatic model to predict potential range and relative abundance of C. nasturtii in Canada, to identify areas in Canada that are at risk for establishment of the swede midge, and to use the model to develop a better understanding of how climate affects C. nasturtii populations. Summary of Results: A bioclimatic model was developed to predict potential range and relative abundance of C. nasturtii in Canada in order to determine the impact of the establishment and spread of C. nasturtii populations. Model output indicated that C. nasturtii could potentially become established in all provinces of Canada if introduced, with the risk being greatest in south western British Columbia, southern Ontario and Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Results indicated that C. nasturtii population growth in the Prairie Ecozone of western Canada would be greatest in years with above average precipitation. The species will potentially cause significant damage to crops and economic losses to producers in the event that a population becomes established in canola-growing areas in western Canada. The total value of cruciferous vegetable crops produced in Canada is approximately $ 120 million annually. Canola has a value of $ 2.2 billion and in the Prairie Ecozone of western Canada 4–5 million ha of summer canola are grown annually. Results of this study emphasize the need for continued monitoring of swede midge distribution and development of management strategies to minimize the economic and environmental impact of this new pest in Canada. Continuing Research: Future plans are to continue to assess the risk from predicted increase in ranges for invasive insect pests and to document pest distribution in relation to geographical areas that may be suitable for future crop production under climate change. Contact: Name O. Olfert Agency AAFC-Saskatoon Mailing address 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK. S7N 0X2 E-mail olferto@agr.gc.ca 3. Title: APest status of leafhoppers and their impact on aster yellows disease in canola@ Author and Associates: C. Olivier, O. Olfert, D. Hegedus Problem: Aster yellows disease (AY) is caused by the aster yellows phytoplasma. In canola, the disease is presumed to be transmitted by the six-spotted leafhopper Macrosteles quadrilineatus. The incidence of AY in canola on the Canadian prairies increased from 1997 to 2000 (0 to 45% of infected plants per field during the 2000 outbreak) but has been declining since 2001. Objective of Research: 1. Epidemiology of the AY disease

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2. Determine the impact of the presence of phytoplasmas in canola seeds and in canola plants showing atypical symptoms. Summary of Results: Update: Aster Yellow phytoplasma now belong to the specie: ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma Asteris’ (Firrao et al.,2004. Int. J. Syst. Evol. Microbiol., 54: 1243-1255) 1. Since 2001, PCR analysis revealed that M. quadrilineatus collected in canola were infested with aster yellows phytoplasmas, as were eleven other leafhopper species and two genders. In 2005, only 1.2% of M. quadrilineatus was infected. Balclutha sp, Endria inimica, Psammotettix sp and Psyllids were infected at 0.8%, 1.1%, 3.1% and 2.5%, respectively.

2. The presence of structures resembling phytoplasma in canola seeds was observed with the electron microscope in 2005. A gold immunolabelling technique using a serum targeting specifically a membrane protein of the phytoplasma. was developed to confirm the identity of the structures. No labelling was observed on the structures. Continuing Research: - Continue leafhopper population monitoring and AY survey in SK to develop an early warning system for AY outbreaks. Continue the phytoplasma strain identification in plants and insects. - Develop an oligonucleotide technique to confirm the presence of phytoplasma in canola seeds - Continue to develop a phytoplasma collection (project started in October 2005, in collaboration with T. Barasubiye and A. Leveque, AAFC-ECORC) Contact: Name: Chrystel Olivier Agency: AAFC-Saskatoon Research Centre Mailing address: 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0X2, Canada E-mail: olivierc@agr.gc.ca 4. Title: Phytoplasma survey in grapevines and leafhoppers sampled in BC and ON vineyards. Authors and associates: C. Olivier, T. Lowery (AAFC-Summerland) and L. Stobbs (AAFC- Vineland) Problem: Two devastating phytoplasma diseases, Flavescence Dorée (FD) and Bois Noir (BN), are spreading throughout Europe, including France from where Canadian nurseries import most of the vines necessary for maintaining/improving the Canadian grapevine industry. The recent increase in the number of grapevines imported into Ontario and British Columbia, have raised concerns that these diseases and/or their insect vectors may already be present in Canada’s wine-producing regions. Objective of the research: Determine if phytoplasma are present in plant and insect samples taken from Canadian grapevine-growing areas, using molecular biology tests (PCR). Identify the phytoplasma strain if present. Summary of results: Grapevine plants and leafhoppers were sampled in ON and BC commercial vineyards in July and August 2006. To date, 260 samples of grape leaves harvested in BC vineyards were processed. No phytoplasma was detected. Continuing research: Continue the sampling of plants and insects in commercial vineyards in 2007 and continue the detection of phytoplasma in all samples from 2006 (and future 2007 samples) . Contact:

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Name: Chrystel Olivier Agency: AAFC-Saskatoon Research Centre Mailing address: 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0X2, Canada E-mail: olivierc@agr.gc.ca 5. Title: Effects of late-season feeding by flea beetles Author and Associates: Julie Soroka, AAFC Saskatoon, Hector Cárcamo and Carolyn Herle, AAFC Lethbridge, Jennifer Otani, AAFC Beaverlodge; funded by CCC, ACGC, SCDC, PMC. Problem: Flea beetles, Phyllotreta spp., are a chronic pest of canola production across the prairies. Objective of Research: The objective of the experiment was to monitor flea beetle movement into and out of fields by means of sticky traps (Saskatoon, Lethbridge, Beaverlodge), and to develop economic thresholds of flea beetles late in the year (Saskatoon). Summary of Results: Flea beetle numbers, species, and gender were monitored in the spring from sticky traps placed at the edges of headlands where flea beetles were expected to overwinter, and from traps placed at four distances into canola fields from spring to fall. Spring beetle populations were generally low throughout the sample areas. Trials at Saskatoon to determine the effects of late season feeding of flea beetles on canola had to rely on cage trials using flea beetles imported from Manitoba and Alberta because of very low natural feeding pressure. Sticky traps have been placed in the canola fields after harvest to determine if movement back to overwintering sites can be detected. Continuing Research: This is the final year for investigation of flea beetle movement using sticky traps. Investigation on development of fall economic thresholds for flea beetles will continue for two more years. Contact: Name Julie Soroka Agency Agriculture and Abri-Food Canada, Saskatoon Research Centre Mailing address 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0X2 E-mail sorokaj@agr.gc.ca 6. Title: Monitoring canola and cole crops for the presence of swede midge, Contarinia nasturtii. Author and Associates: Julie Soroka, AAFC Saskatoon, with sampling assistance from Jennifer Otani, AAFC Beaverlodge, AB, Hector Carcamo, AAFC Lethbridge, AB, Scott Hartley, Sask. Agr. and Food, Regina, SK, and Ian Wise, AAFC, Winnipeg, MB. Project originated by Rebecca Hallett, U of Guelph, Owen Olfert, AAFC Saskatoon, and Julie Soroka; funded by CCC. Problem: Swede midge, Contarinia nasturtii, is a European pest of crucifers that has been recently found in Ontario and Quebec. The insect is a pest of quarantine significance, meaning that it has a high potential to spread further within Canada, and to cause significant damage to crops and economic losses to producers.

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Objective of Research: The objective of the survey is to utilize data generated by a Climex® model to survey areas of the prairies where swede midge has the potential to occur. Summary of Results: Two fields in each of AB and MB, and four fields in SK were sampled on a weekly basis from mid-June to mid-September using white Jackson traps baited with swede midge pheromone. To date the samples from the three northern Saskatchewan locations have been analyzed, with no swede midge specimens apparent. Sticky card samples from Lethbridge contained several midge species, although none have all the characters attributed to swede midge. Future efforts will be made to develop a molecular technique for determining the species identity of midge samples that are not identifiable by morphological means. Continuing Research: This survey will continue for one more year. 7. Title: Forage Insect Pest Survey Author and Associates: Julie Soroka Problem: Alfalfa seed producers are faced with numerous insect pests that threaten seed production. The alfalfa blotch leafminer is a pest of hay alfalfa in eastern Canada that has recently been detected in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The alfalfa weevil, an economic pest of alfalfa seed fields in Alberta, has recently extended its distribution eastward and northward and is approaching northeastern Saskatchewan, the principal alfalfa seed production area of Canada. Objectives of Research: To monitor the presence of alfalfa blotch leaf miner and alfalfa weevil in southern Saskatchewan. Summary of Results: A survey of alfalfa hay and seed fields in the eastern and central regions of the province for the presence of alfalfa blotch leaf miner and alfalfa weevil was conducted in June and July of this year. Damage by leafminer was much lower than seen last year, although the miner is apparently spreading slowly westward, having been found as far west as Elrose in 2006. Alfalfa weevil injury also was prevalent over the entire survey, with only 2 of 37 fields being alfalfa weevil-free. Average number of stems with weevil feeding injury was 26.3%, down from 31% in 2005. Continuing Research: If alfalfa blotch leaf miner becomes common across Saskatchewan, the effect of its injury on alfalfa seed yields will have to be determined. When resources allow, sweep samples taken at the time of stem collecting in 2004 - 2006 will be analysed for the presence of wasp parasitoids of ablm and alfalfa weevil. Contact: Name Julie Soroka Agency Agriculture and Abri-Food Canada, Saskatoon Research Centre Mailing address 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0X2 E-mail sorokaj@agr.gc.ca

RESEARCH PROGRESS REPORT - MANITOBA 2006

Prepared by Ian Wise, Cereal Research Centre

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Agriculture and AgriFood Canada Winnipeg, Manitoba

R3T 2M9 Email: iwise@agr.gc.ca

CEREAL CROP RESEARCH 1)Title: Development of spring wheats with resistance to the wheat midge Author and Associates: SL Fox, PD Brown, IL Wise (iwise@agr.gc.ca), J. Thomas, and G. Humphreys, Cereal Research Centre, O.O. Olfert, AAFC Saskatoon and R. DePauw, J. Clarke, AAFC Swift Current Problem: The insertion of the Sm1 gene into suitable spring wheat lines that renders wheat resistant to the midge requires phenotypic and genetic selection to broadly distribute this gene in spring wheat breeding programs. Summary of Results: Resistance to wheat midge has been incorporated into advanced breeding lines of CPS, CWRS and CWHW classes of common wheat. Three CWRS lines have reached the 3rd year of registration trials, one line in the 2nd year, and three CWRS lines were entered into their first year of registration trials. One CWHW (CWES) line has reached the 3rd year of trials and two CWHW and four CWES in the first, and one CPS line is in the first year. CWES is a defunct wheat class that has been added to CWHW. CPS line development has been delayed by lines being rejected for KVD. The 3rd year lines will be submitted for consideration for registration in February 2007. If registration is granted, the cultivar is purchased by a private seed company, seed is increased for three generations, and then sold as certified seed. Thus, seed of midge resistant cultivars will not likely be readily available to growers until 2010. The Sm1 gene is the only known genetic source of resistance to the wheat midge. Screening land races of wheat for other resistant sources is ongoing, and at least two sources of resistance have been identified. Genetic tests to determine the uniqueness of these sources are being pursued. Oviposition deterrence is another midge resistance mechanism . A Ph.D. candidate Ali Gharalari is currently studying this trait. Sm1 has been found to be linked to the leaf rust resistance gene Lr16. The linkage is typically found in repulsion, but recombinants have been identified and are currently being used as parents in breeding crosses. 2)Title: Development of management strategies to minimize the selection of virulent midge biotypes. Author and Associates: MAH Smith (msmith@agr.gc.ca), SL Fox, IL Wise (iwise@agr.gc.ca), CRC Problem: Wheats with antibiotic resistance to the wheat midge cause mortality to larvae in excess of 99% and a comparable reduction in populations of the wheat midge parasitoid. When released, midge-resistant wheats will put a substantial selection pressure on the midge population, resulting in a high proportion of virulent midge that can survive on resistant wheat.

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Objectives of Research: 1) Assess the potential for drift from the initial 10% in a refuge of susceptible wheat added to resistant wheat. 2) Test midge-resistant wheats in Co-op trials for the presence of oviposition deterrence to the wheat midge. Summary of Results: An interspersed refuge of 10% susceptible wheat added to resistant wheat is recommended, to delay the development of virulence by the wheat midge. At this percentage the refuge will reduce selection of virulent wheat midge while not allowing downgrading or appreciable yield losses during years of high wheat midge populations. Field studies on the potential of drift in the refuge from the initial 10% were initiated in 2005 at Glenlea, MB. Drift is a gradual shift in the percentage of an interspersed refuge that could be caused by a number of factors: differential midge pressure and seed damage, differences in tillering, head size, yield or reaction to unusual weather, between the resistant and susceptible lines. Of the four different seed mixtures tested, two showed significant drift from 10% in the first field season, one increasing and one decreasing. Differential midge pressure was not a factor in 2005 because the unusual weather resulted in the wheat heading after midge oviposition was completed. Seed harvested from the 2005 study was used to initiate the 2006 study which was seeded at Glenlea and Brandon. The proportions of refuge plants in the four seed mixtures were close to those estimated in the 2005 harvested seed. Four Co-op lines were screened for wheat midge oviposition deterrence in the past year. All of these were found to be more deterrent than the highly susceptible cultivar Barrie, but less deterrent than the deterrent check. Continuing Research: 1) The study of drift in a susceptible refuge in resistant wheat will continue at Glenlea and Brandon, using seed harvested from the respective locations in 2006. 2) Our multi-field wheat midge population genetics simulation model showed that if all female midges disperse from the emergence field, as would occur under crop rotation, the development of virulence may be accelerated in some circumstances. The model has been expanded to include crop rotation and the relationships between crop rotation and virulence development are being investigated. 3) Midge-resistant wheat lines that advance in Co-op trials will continue to be screened for the presence of oviposition deterrence. 3)Title: Identification of factors contributing to seed damage by the wheat midge to advanced midge resistant lines Authors and Associates: IL Wise, SL Fox, PD Brown, and G Humphreys, CRC Problem: Feeding by newly hatched larvae on young seeds of resistant wheat can cause damage to the seed before resistant mechanisms are induced. Objectives of Research: To measure severity of damage, identify the various types of damage, and to determine if damage is wheat class related or a function of seed age at the time of initial larval feeding. Summary of Research: Studies have only recently been started and laboratory results are expected before next year=s growing season. Comparative field studies of these lines will be done next year.

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4)Title: Development of spring wheat germplasm with resistance to the wheat midge and the Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor Authors and Associates: IL Wise and SL Fox, CRC Problem: The development of cultivars with specific agronomic traits is delayed if these traits have to be obtained from distant genetic sources. Summary of Results: A backcrossing program with the goal of combining wheat midge resistance and the H3 and H6 Hessian fly resistant genes in two advanced breeding lines of each of the three classes of common wheat was initiated in 2002. The final backcrosses were made in 2004 and F4 and F5 lines were tested in the field for agronomic traits. The best lines will be crossed with advanced breeding lines to incorporate recently developed disease and quality traits. A second study was initiated to incorporate the H18 gene in Guard spring wheat into advanced bread wheat lines. 5)Title: Resistance to Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor in spring wheat cv. Superb Author and Associates: IL Wise (iwise@agr.gc.ca) and SL Fox

Problem: The Hessian fly is a sporadic pest of spring wheat throughout all wheat growing areas of western Canada. The cv. Superb is known to be partially resistant to the Hessian fly. However, the genetic source of the resistance is not known. Summary of Results: Various lines from crosses of the original parents were found to be highly variable in their resistance to Hessian fly, ranging from being highly susceptible to completely resistant. Tests are currently underway to determine the ratio of resistance to susceptibility in 72 lines to estimate the presence of one or more genes that contribute to resistance. Once the number of resistance genes are identified, resistant lines will be tested for the presence of known markers for HF R-genes to determine if resistance is novel. 6)Title: Factors affecting the population dynamics of Hessian fly in southern Manitoba Author: IL Wise, CRC Problem: The Hessian fly is a sporadic pest of spring wheat in western Canada. The causes for differences in populations between years and sites in southern Manitoba are not well understood. Summary of Results: A 3 year field study on the Hessian fly in the Red River Valley was completed. The HF in southern Manitoba has one complete and a partial second generation. The second generation causes most of the economic damage to spring wheat by feeding on stems at the nodes and causing the stems to break. HF populations are regulated by 6 parasite species, of which two can attack the first and second generation and 4 exclusively parasitize second generation puparia. The most abundant species, Pediobius eubius, had previously only been identified as a parasite in western Canada of the wheat stem sawfly. DICOT CROP RESEARCH

1) Project title: Potato virus Y (PVY O and PVY N:O) impact on potato cultivars and management through oil sprays.

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Author and Associates: DL McLaren, Crop Production Pathologist, Brandon Research Centre, AAFC, Brandon, MB; R.P. Singh, Potato Research Centre, AAFC, Fredericton, NB; B.G. Elliott and T. Shinners-Carnelley, Manitoba Agriculture,Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI), Soils and Crops Branch, Carman, MB; R. Mohr and M. Khakbazan, Brandon Research Centre, AAFC, Brandon, MB; D. Tomasiewicz, Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre. Funding source(s) (2006): AAFC Biopesticides Initiative, Seed Potato Growers= Association of Manitoba, Keystone Vegetable Producers Association, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives, Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre. Objective of Research: The objectives are: a) to assess oil sprays for PVY management in commonly grown potato cultivars; b) to determine the impact of PVY strains PVYO and PVY N:O on potato yield and quality under Manitoba environmental conditions and c) to assess aphid populations in the Manitoba potato production regions for species that are important in the spread of PVY. Progress (2006): The aphid trapping network consisted of 30 traps distributed in potato fields over 11 locations for approximately 13 sampling interval end dates. Green peach, potato, buckthorn and bird-cherry oat aphid identifications were conducted from samples collected from traps and leaves. In a replicated virus spread trial with known diseased plants, aphids were collected over the season, and three sampling dates of tubers were collected for RT-PCR to assess oil spray as a management tool for PVY. General observations, comments, conclusions to date: Aphid numbers were high in 2006 (~8000 captured vs. <1900 in 2005) due, in part, to the warm, favourable environmental conditions. Populations peaked earlier in 2006, likely due to the earlier ripening of crops. In the replicated trial, aphids were frequently observed on the potato foliage. To date, analyses of tubers collected from the replicated trial have not been completed but are ongoing.

2)Title: Management of root maggots Delia radicum on oilseed rape in Manitoba Author and Associates: N.J. Holliday (neil_holliday@umanitoba.ca), Dept. of Entomology, University of Manitoba, U. Kuhlmann, CABI Bioscience Centre, Switzerland, J. Whistlecraft AAFC London. Problem: The cabbage root maggot is a serious pest of canola in many parts of western Canada. Various tillage and seeding practices that lessen damage have been studied because insecticides can not be effectively applied. Objective of Research: To assess the potential for introducing European parasitoids for control of root maggots (particularly Delia radicum) in canola in Canada. A candidate species is being studied for its efficacy and associated risk. Summary of Results: Delia parasitism rates in Manitoba are about 50%, but are considerably less in Saskatchewan and Alberta. Six parasitoid species are present of which the most important are Trybliographa rapae and Aleochara bilineata. Collections of Delia from canola and vegetable brassicas in Germany and Switzerland have the same guild of parasitoids as in the prairies. However, one European species, Aleochara bipustulata, appears well adapted to the small root maggot pupae found on canola. Recent studies show that it is quite compatible with A. bilineata and is likely to add to total mortality caused by Aleochara parasitism. Tests on numerous dipteran nontarget species found at least 9 species

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were attacked and supported A. bipustulata. Most produced very small and weak parasites. Methods of attracting and retaining A. bipustulata in locations where their hosts need to be controlled were continued in 2006. 3)Title: Economic significance of late season populations of lygus bugs in alfalfa and buckwheat Authors and Associates: N.J. Holliday (neil_holliday@umanitoba.ca), Dept of Entomology, U of M, and BG Elliott, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Problem: Lygus bugs can feed and reproduce on buckwheat and populations are distributed throughout the field. Adult populations can increase greatly about the time of harvest of canola. Objective of Research: It is likely adults migrate to buckwheat when displaced by the loss of their canola habitat. The influence of inter-field distance and topography on the numbers of immigrants, and the effect of natural enemies on these populations are being studied. Summary of Results: Late season ( late August to early September) control of plant bugs in seed alfalfa does not provide significant yield increases but yield benefits from their control at the end of July average about 60%. Nymphs are more injurious than adults, and are most damaging at the flowering stage. Later season attacks by adults on developing seeds result in seed shrivelling and weight loss of the individual seeds. Analyses of the data are continuing, and we are hoping to extend the project to examine the yield implications of lygus bugs for pulse crops grown in Manitoba. 4)Title: Dutch elm disease: evaluation of control alternatives Authors and Associates: N.J. Holliday (neil_holliday@umanitoba.ca), Dept of Entomology, U of M, J. Leferink, Manitoba Conservation, and D. Domke, City of Winnipeg Problem: Native elm bark beetles are the principle vectors of the pathogen causing Dutch elm disease in Manitoba. Nearly 30 years after Dutch elm disease reached the province, urban centres still retain a significant proportion of their elm trees. However tree losses to disease continues to be unacceptably high despite a vigorous program of integrated disease management. Objective of Research: In September 2006, we began the second year of a four year study of management of Dutch elm disease with the following objectives: - to compare the value of early removal of infected elm trees with that of removing infected trees - in the winter after symptom detection, - to find an alternative for the pesticide that is currently used for basal application, and - to develop a method for assessing the population size of over-wintering elm bark beetles. Summary of Results: Preliminary results after one year indicate adult beetles vacate dead trees

in the fall before winter tree removal. Recommendations from this study could result in a change in the timing of dead-tree removal as a method to reduce the threat of further infestations.

STORED GRAIN RESEARCH

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1)TITLE: Wheat disinfestation using microwave energy AUTHORS: R. Vadivambal, D.S. Jayas - Dept. Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba; and N.D.G. White - AAFC, Cereal Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB OBJECTIVE: To kill insects infesting bulk wheat with microwaves SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Disinfestation of grains using a microwave grain dryer can be an alternative method for pesticides in killing insects. An industrial microwave system operating at 2.45 GHz was used in this study to determine the mortality of three common types of stored-grain insects, namely the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), the rusty grain beetle, Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens), and the granary weevil, Sitophilus granarius (L.). Wheat samples of 50 g each at 16% moisture content (wet basis) were infested with 5, 10, and 15 adult insects. The infested samples were then exposed to microwaves at four different power levels of 0.25, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 kW/kg for two exposure times of 28 and 56 s. A 100% mortality was achieved for T. castaneum adults at 0.5 kW/kg power level for both exposure times of 28 and 56 s. The mortality rates were lower at the lower power levels. For instance, at 0.25, 0.3, and 0.4 kW/kg power levels, the mortality rates were 45, 58, and 85%, respectively. Similar results were obtained for the other two insects. Eggs of T. castaneum were most susceptible followed by larvae, then pupae, then adults. Power levels and durations that effectively killed insects also resulted in 0% seed germination. 2)TITLE: Comparative advantages of soft x-rays and NIR spectroscopy to detect insect infestations in grain AUTHORS: C. Karunakaran, J. Paliwal, D.S. Jayas - Dept. Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba; and N.D.G. White - AAFC, Cereal Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB OBJECTIVE: To compare x-rays and Near Infrared Spectroscopy for detecting insects in bulk

wheat SUMMARY OF RESULTS: One of the challenges that needs to be addressed to automate grain inspection is the machine detection of insect infestations in grains. In this study, the soft x-ray and NIR spectroscopy methods to detect insect infestations were compared for their potential for real-time application. Infested wheat kernels were prepared by artificially infesting Canada Western Red spring wheat by Sitophilus oryzae adults. Single kernels of wheat uninfested and infested by larvae, pupae, and adults of S. oryzae were first scanned by x-rays. The same infested kernels were then mixed with uninfested bulk grain and scanned using a spectrophotometer. The infestation level in the soft x-ray method was quantified by counting the number of infested and uninfested kernels whereas in the NIR spectroscopy method it was quantified by the mass of infested and uninfested grain. The identification of infestations by both methods increased with the increase in the developmental stage of the insect from larvae to adult . The soft x-ray method has the advantage of potential application in grain inspection over NIR spectroscopy where the number of infested or insect-damaged kernels is essential information. The NIR spectroscopy for analyzing bulk samples has applications in grain management such as fumigation where the identification of insect species is critical and precise quantification of infestations is not vital.

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3)TITLE: A distributed-delay model to predict aging and survival of the rusty grain beetle in bulk wheat AUTHORS: F. Jian, D.S. Jayas - Dept. Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba; and N.D.G. White, P.G. Fields - AAFC, Cereal Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB OBJECTIVE: To model and validate aging and mortality in populations of the rusty grain beetle

in bulk wheat SUMMARY OF RESULTS: A time-varying distributed-delay model simulating effects of multifactors was developed. Prediction of the aging rate and survival distribution of adults of the rusty grain beetle, Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens) (Coleoptera: Cucujidae) in various environments found in wheat-filled granaries was conducted as an example to illustrate the application of this developed model. Published adult mortalities, determined at different temperatures, relative humidities, and food sources, were directly used to find the average aging rate and family of cumulative function of adult mortality. The developed model could predict the adult survival rate at constant or transient temperatures with different relative humidities. This model could also simulate the effect of adult acclimation to their environment when they experience temperature and moisture fluctuations inside granaries. To validate the developed model, the simulation results were compared with available experimental data from the literature. There was no difference between predicted and measured mortalities in two granaries in which the mortalities were determined in a 4-month experiment

Appendix III

Dave Holden, Canadian Food Inspection Agency Burnaby, British Columbia 2006 Survey Highlights CFIA Structural Changes: As part of the new Invasive Alien Species Initiative, which has an increased survey focus, CFIA has now gone from having one national survey coordinator in Ottawa to four dedicated Area Survey Biologists(Western, Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic) under direction from a National Manager for Plant Health Surveillance in Ottawa (Science Branch). Pest survey recommendations are provided by our Programs Branch commodity sections (Forestry, Horticulture, Grains and Field Crops and Potatoes) for evaluation and design by Science Branch and eventually carried out in the areas by our Operations Branch. Japanese Beetle The Japanese Beetle (Popillia japonica Newman) is considered a quarantine pest to Canada and is regulated by CFIA with regards to imports as well as domestically. Surveys are conducted annually in Canada to determine the pest's distribution and to facilitate the effectiveness of regulatory containment and control measures. The areas in Canada infested with or suspected of being infested with Japanese Beetle has recently been revised and updated to reflect recent on-going CFIA surveillance activities. These areas within Canada are now defined as follows:

Province of Ontario - all counties

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Province of Quebec - all regional municipalities

Province of Nova Scotia - Queens County, plus the area defined as follows: West ½ of Halifax RM (All areas of Halifax RM west of a line described by the following roads and waterways: Commencing at the junction of the Atlantic Ocean and Porters Lake; proceed north on west bank of Porters Lake to East Brook; proceed north on East Brook to Miller Road; proceed north on Miller Road. to route #212 (old Guysborough Road); proceed west on #212 to Oldham Road; proceed north on Oldham Road to route #2; proceed east on route #2 to Halifax RM limits).

Other than finds in Liverpool in Queens County, there have been no other detections for Japanese Beetle this year despite increased trapping in all Provinces other than Ontario and Quebec. Cereal Leaf Beetle Alberta Positives: Lethbridge County- Confirmed again at the Lethbridge Research Station with a few larvae found and minimal damage detected. BC: Three positive fields near Armstong (adults), in the North Okanagan Regional District. Negative in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Apple Maggot Apple maggot is a quarantine pest in Canada and, until this year, British Columbia has been completely free of the pest. It is found throughout the rest of Canada (except Newfoundland) and is widespread in the U.S. as well. Last year, U.S. officials reported apple maggot in Washington State just across the border from B.C. In 2006, the CFIA has detected apple maggot during regular survey activities in Abbotsford, B.C in several locations and on Vancouver Island near Esquimalt. Despite a better trap design, lure efficiency and increased trap numbers, there has been no detection of apple maggot in the commercial fruit growing regions in the interior of the province, which are geographically separated by a mountain range from the area deemed to be infested. Leek Moth CFIA has decided not to regulate Leek Moth domestically however the US still requires Phytosanitary certification of Allium products. In 2006, to support area freedom and to help facilitate trade to the US for products originating from Leek moth free areas a detection survey outside of Quebec and Ontario in the provinces of BC, NB, NS, PE, and NL was carried out. There have been no new detections of Leek moth in Canada this year. Apple Clearwing Moth In the summer of 2005 several adult specimens of a clearwing moth (Sesiidae) were collected from symptomatic apple (Malus sp.) trees growing in an orchard in Cawston, British Columbia. The specimens were tentatively identified as Synanthedon culiciformis, the large red-belted clearwing, a species already found in North America. However, upon further examination by appropriate taxonomic specialists, the specimens were determined to be the Apple Clearwing moth, Synanthedon myopaeformis (Borkhausen). This was the first North America record. The apple clearwing moth occurs from southern Scandinavia through central Europe to North Africa and Asia Minor. It is primarily a pest of Rosaceae (e.g. apple, pear, plum, peach, apricot, quince, Sorbus, and Crataegus) and has been reported to cause some damage to fruit trees in parts of Europe (e.g. Belgium, the Netherlands).

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The CFIA will carry out surveys in all Apple production areas of Canada during the adult flight period in the summer of 2006 to determine the distribution of this pest.

Apple Clearwing was detected in the towns of Ellison(Near Kelowna), Oliver, Oosoyoos, Cawston and Keremeos in the BC interior, Langley, Abbotsford, and Yarrow in the BC Fraser Valley and one site in Fingal Ontario which is just south of London. Adjacent populations were also reported in Western Washington near the Fraser Valley finds. Oriental Fruit Moth CFIA in BC continue to survey for OFM to maintain claims of area freedom in fruit growing areas of the province. No detections of OFM in British Columbia in 2006. Blueberry Maggot CFIA in BC, ON, QC, and NL continue to survey for BM to maintain claims of area freedom in fruit growing areas of the province. There were no new population expansions reported in 2006 in any Province. Golden Twin Spot At the end of August 2006, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed the presence of the exotic noctuid moth identified as Chrysodeixis chalcites (Esper) or Chrysodeixis eriosoma (Doubleday) in the municipality of Delta, British Columbia. Work continues to confirm species identification. C. chalcites is distributed primarily between 45N and 35S, from southern Europe and the Mediterranean and the Middle East to southern Africa, while C. eriosoma is found throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of eastern Asia and the Pacific Islands as well as the northern two- thirds of Australia. The larvae of both species are highly polyphagous and feed on the foliage and fruit of a wide variety of field and vegetable crops, ornamental plants and weeds. Feeding by the larval stages of this pest may lead to reduction in yields, reduction in quality, and increased production costs.

Initial survey findings this year were not in the immediate vicinity of the facilities which underwent eradication protocols in the spring of 2006, however subsequent finds have been throughout the Delta area. Delimitation surveys continue and producers in the area have been put under compliance agreement to prevent further spread with agricultural products.

As a result of increased surveillance activity, recent finds in October include detections in Richmond, White Rock at the Peach Arch Border Crossing, and two sites along the border near Abbotsford. Swede Midge The Swede midge (Contarinia nasturtii (Kieffer) is considered a quarantine pest to Canada and is regulated by CFIA both with regards to imports as well as domestically. Surveys are conducted annually in Canada to determine the pest's distribution and to facilitate the effectiveness of regulatory containment and control measures. The Swede midge regulated areas within Canada has recently been revised and updated to reflect recent on-going CFIA surveillance activities. The regulated areas within Canada are now defined as follows:

Province of Ontario - The City of Toronto, as well as the entire counties of Brant, Dufferin, Durham, Grey, Haldimand, Halton, Hamilton-Wentworth, Hasting's, Huron, Middlesex, Niagara, Norfolk,

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Northumberland, Oxford, Peel, Prince Edward, Simcoe, Sudbury District, Victoria, Waterloo, Wellington, and York.

Province of Quebec - Argenteuil, Bas-Richelieu, Communauté Urbaine de Montréal, D'Autray, Deux-Montagnes, Haut-Richelieu, Haut-St.-Laurent, I'lle d'Orleans, Jardins-de-Napierville, Joliette, L'Assomption, Laval, La Vallée-du-Richelieu, Les Chenaux, Les Maskoutains, Les Moulins, Mirabel, Montcalm, Nicolet-Yamaska, Portneuf, Roussillon, Rouville, Thérèse-de-Blainville, and Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

In addition to Ontario and Quebec this year, CFIA with the cooperation from the Province of Alberta and BC surveyed all other Provinces. Quebec is the only Province with new detections so far this year (all traps have been collected however some still need to be analyzed by CFIA Entomologists); they include the MRC=s of Les Laurentides and Papineau.

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PMRA INSECTICIDES UPDATE 2006 Western Committee on Crop Pests

1) Insecticide Emergency Registrations (from 1 September 2005 to 31 August 2006):

EMERGENCY REGISTRATIONS (2006) Active Product Name Pest Problem Provinces

1st Request Abamectin

Agri-Mek 1.9% EC Insecticide/Miticide spider mites on strawberry ON, QC

Nicotine

Plant-Fume Nicotine Smoke Fumigator Chrysodeixis loopers on greenhouse cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes BC

Tebufenozide

Confirm 240 F Agricultural Insecticide Chrysodeixis loopers on greenhouse peppers and tomatoes BC

Naled Dibrom Insecticide Chrysodeixis loopers on greenhouse tomatoes BC Imidacloprid

Admire 240 Flowable Systemic

Insecticide strawberry aphids on strawberries BC

Imidacloprid Intercept 60WP Greenhouse Insecticide swede midge on greenhouse brassica seedlings QC, ON Imidacloprid Confidor 200 SL Systemic Insecticide emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle on deciduous trees ON Bifenthrin Brigade WSB leafrollers and weevils on raspberries BC (withdrawn) Spinosad Entrust 80W Naturalyte Insect Control

Product fruitworm on cranberries QC, NB

(Z,Z)-3, 13-

octadecadienyl acetate Isomate-P Pheromone apple clearwing moth on apple, pear, hawthorne, and mountain ash BC

Carbaryl Sevin Brand XLR flea beetle on lowbush blueberry QC Coumaphos Check mite and Bee hive Pest Control

Strip small hive beetle in honeybees (first time for this pest) NS, MB, BC

Pymetrozine Endeavor 50WG Insecticide aphids on greenhouse tomatoes BC 2nd Request Diazinon Diazinon 500E dearness scale on cranberries BC

Imidacloprid

Admire 240 Flowable Systemic Insecticide

cucumber beetles on cucumbers, melons, squash, and pumpkin

ON (withdrawn)

Imidacloprid Confidor 200 SL Systemic Insecticide

European elm scale and cottony ash psyllid on elm trees and ash trees

AB

Acetamiprid Assail 70WP Insecticide Colorado potato beetle on potato AB, MB (withdrawn)

Abamectin Agri-Mek 1.9% EC Insecticide/Miticide

spider mites on strawberry

ON, QC (withdrawn)

3rd Request

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EMERGENCY REGISTRATIONS (2006) Active Product Name Pest Problem Provinces

Spinosad Success 480 SC Naturalyte Insect Control Product

cabbage looper and Chrysodeixis loopers on greenhouse cucumbers (1st request for Chrysodeixis loopers)

BC

Pymetrozine Fulfil 50WG Insecticide aphids on highbush blueberries BC

Carbofuran Furadan 480SC cabbage root maggot on turnips and rutabagas BC

4th Request Coumaphos Check mite and Bee hive Pest Control

Strip varroa mites in beehives

NL, PEI, NB, QC, ON, MB,

SK, AB, BC Coumaphos Check mite and Bee hive Pest Control

Strip varroa mites in beehives

NS

Permethrin Insect/Arthropod Repellent Protective

Treatment insects and arthropods on military uniforms overseas only

Imidacloprid Intercept 60WP Greenhouse Insecticide aphids on greenhouse lettuce BC Chlorpyrifos Pyrinex 480 EC wireworm on potato BC Chlorpyrifos Pyrinex 15G wireworm on potato BC

2) New Pest Control Products Act:

The new Pest Control Products Act (PCPA) came into force on 28 June 2006, replacing the old PCPA. The

Pest Management Regulatory Agency administers the PCPA. More information is available on-line at the

PMRA web site (http://www.pmra-arla.gc.ca/)

3) Registration of New Active Ingredients and End-Use Products

Verbenone Pouch (96.0% verbenone); Reg. No. 28260. This product was registered in March 2006. It is an

antiaggregation pheromone of the mountain pine beetle for use on pine to deter mountain pine beetle attack.

Abietiv Flowable Biological Insecticide (Neodiprion abietis Nucleopolyhedrovirus, NeabNPV: 4 x 10 9 polyhedral inclusion bodies (PIBs) per milliliter); Reg. No. 28304. This product was registered in April 2006 for use in forestry to reduce populations of balsam fir sawfly. Profume Gas Fumigant (99.8% sulfuryl fluoride); Reg. No. 28241. This product was registered in April 2006 for control of stored product pests in empty cereal grain mills, associated empty storage facilities, and empty food processing plants. 4) Recent Publications on New Active Ingredients available on-line athttp://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/pmra-arla/ http://www.pmra-arla.gc.ca/ Proposed Regulatory Decision Document PRDD2006-03 Octenol (1-Octen-3-ol)

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The use of octenol and the associated lures and devices for attracting, trapping and killing mosquitoes is proposed for full registration pursuant to the Pest Control Products Regulations. Bedoukian Research Inc. has submitted an application to register Bedoukian Octenol Technical (99.7% octenol) as a mosquito attractant. Bedoukian Octenol Technical is proposed for use in lures produced by several companies. Fourteen devices that emit octenol have also been proposed for registration. Proposed Regulatory Decision Document PRDD2006-04 Pyriproxyfen The active ingredient pyriproxyfen and the end-use product Distance Insect Growth Regulator for control of whiteflies (silver leaf whitefly, sweet potato whitefly and greenhouse whitefly) on greenhouse ornamentals and greenhouse vegetables (tomato, cucumber and pepper) are proposed for full registration under the Pest Control Products Act. 5) Insecticide URMULEs (Registered From 1 September 2005 to 31 August 2006)

Product PCP # Active Crop Pest

Sanmite Miticide/Insecticide

25134 pyridaben outdoor ornamental plants for nursery stock

European red mite, two-spotted spider mite, apple rust mite, and pear rust mite

Dyno-Mite Miticide/Insecticide

25229 pyridaben outdoor ornamental plants for nursery stock

European red mite, two-spotted spider mite, apple rust mite, and pear rust mite

Surround Crop Protectant

27469 kaolin grapes Crop Group 14 (tree nuts)

eastern grape leafhopper, potato leafhopper, three banded leafhopper, Virginia creeper leafhopper, and western grape leafhopper Husk maggot, butternut curculio, leafroller, leafhopper

Floramite SC Miticide 27924 bifenazate Christmas trees greenhouse pepper, tomato, cucumber

spruce spider mite two-spotted spider mite

Guardsman Dormant Spray Oil and Lime Sulphur

23370 mineral oil + lime sulphur

highbush blueberry scale insects

Guardsman Dormant Spray Oil

23370 mineral oil highbush blueberry scale insects

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Product PCP # Active Crop Pest

Success 480 SC Naturalyte Insect Control Product

26835 spinosad nectarine, greenhouse ornamentals

chokecherry

rhubarb

western flower thrips

prairie tent caterpillar

potato stem borer

Endeavor 50 WG Insecticide 27273 pymetrozine outdoor ornamentals green peach aphid, melon aphid

Cruiser 5FS Seed Treatment 27045 thiamethoxam imported sunflower seeds

wireworm

Apollo SC Ovidical Miticide 21035 clofentezine outdoor nursery stock

two-spotted spider mite

Assail 70WP Insecticide 27128 acetamiprid ground cherry aphids

Admire 240 Flowable Systemic Insecticide

24094 imidacloprid lettuce

Crop Group 9 (Cucurbits)

aphids

cucumber beetles,

Matador 120EC Insecticide

24984 cyhalothrin-lambda

greenhouse lettuce

Crop Group 3 (bulb vegetables )

asparagus

cabbage looper

onion thrips

European asparagus aphid

Warrior Insecticide 26835 cyhalothrin-lambda

greenhouse lettuce

asparagus

cabbage looper

European asparagus aphid

Demand CS Insecticide 27428 cyhalothrin-lambda

turf ants

Agri-Mek 1.9% EC Insecticide/Miticide

24551 abamectin strawberry two-spotted spider mite, McDaniel spider mite, cyclamen mite

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