Pesticide Broadcast (Newsletter)

Stephen J. Toth, Jr., Pest Management Information Specialist
Wayne G. Buhler, Pesticide Education Specialist

Volume 15, Number 2, May 19, 2005

Bollgard and Bollgard II Cotton 2005 IRM Requirements Changed by the EPA

On Monday, May 9th, the EPA approved changes to refuge requirements for Bollgard and Bollgard II cotton. These changes will allow insecticidal sprays on the 5 percent refuge in both the embedded and external 95/5 cotton refuge options for control of lepidopteron, but only through the pre-squaring stage of development.

These IRM changes are good news for producers and crop advisors who have been seeking options to effectively manage the increased infestations of cabbage loopers that threaten the stand in young cotton planted for refuge this year. The new IRM requirements will give cotton producers options for managing these lepidopteron populations in refuges, while continuing to maintain the effectiveness of the 5% refuge.

The timing of application of the insecticidal sprays is limited to the pre-squaring stage of development of the cotton because the plant is not considered to be a significant host for the cotton bollworm, tobacco budworm, or pink bollworm at this stage. Therefore, the application of the foliar spray will not impact these insect populations, thus managing the potential for resistance development as originally designed in the stewardship plan.

These changes by the EPA are supplemental to the 2005 Bollgard and Bollgard II Insect Resistance Management (IRM) Guide and Technology Use Guide (TUG). All other practices in these 2005 guides must be followed as indicated, including the guidelines for the 20% Sprayed Refuge option which remains unchanged.

Producers should consult their crop advisors for specific recommendations and implementation plans for their individual cotton operations.

Note: Bollgard and Bollgard II are registered trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC.

Source: Southern Region Integrated Pest Management Center, May 13, 2005

Recommendations for the use of chemicals are included in this publication as a covenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact an agent of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in your county.

Employment and program opportunities are offered to all people regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.

Last modified on May 19, 2005 by Stephen J. Toth, Jr.