CDFA Secretary Karen Ross joined farmers, scientists and other colleagues serving on the Sustainable Pest Management (SPM) Work Group for a trip to the Monterey/Salinas region last week. The group used the trip as an opportunity to see pest management issues from the perspective of one of California’s most productive agricultural areas.
“The scope, scale and pace of agricultural production in this region, along with the integral roles of farm workers and community members here, makes this an ideal place to innovate, experiment and ultimately advance the science of pest management,” Secretary Ross said. “The expertise and the opportunities for innovation all come together here.”
The work group engaged in tours and conversations at a test plot for Driscoll’s Strawberry Breeding; a farm worker community; and Pinnacle Organic.
The SPM Work Group guides state agencies in creating pesticide alternatives and increasing research and education in organic pest management.
