Research grant awarded to fight invasive tart cherry pest

Research grant awarded to fight invasive tart cherry pest

Researchers at Michigan State have been awarded a $150,000 grant from the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research to fight spotted wing drosophila (SWD), a significant pest for Michigan’s tart cherry crop.
 
In 2016, the pest destroyed an estimated 21% of Michigan’s 2016 cherry crop, according to industry surveys.
 
Michigan State University, the Michigan Cherry Committee, and the Michigan State Horticulture Society are matching the foundation’s grant, according to a news release. Those contributions will combine for a $300,000 total investment in research to combat SWD, according to the release.
 
“Invasive pests pose a serious threat to the livelihood of Michigan’s cherry farmers,” Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., and ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, said in the release. “Michigan State University is a national leader in agriculture research with the expertise needed to quickly respond to threats to this important part of Michigan’s diverse agricultural economy.”
 
So far, there has been limited success in providing immediate and long-term relief against the SWD, according to the release.
 
The grant will support research to find integrated pest management strategies that will work not only to reduce pest damage to tart cherries but also can work for other specialty crops including blueberries and raspberries, according to the release.
 
According to the release, co-principal investigators on this project include: 
 
  • Bill Ravlin, MSU professor and entomology department chair;
  • Larry Gut, professor at MSU;
  • Rufus Isaacs, professor at MSU;
  • Nikki Rothwell, extension specialist at MSU; and 
  • John Wise, professor at MSU.
 

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.