Building A Responsive Network of Integrated Pest Management Applications that Support Grower Access and Communication

Abstract

Our project addresses the goal of enhancing agricultural biosecurity while reducing potential human health risks and minimizing adverse environmental effects from pests and related management strategies. We propose to advance the usefulness of the Network for Environment and Weather Applications (NEWA) by improving information delivery via the web, enhancing visual presentation on smart phones and tablets, and improving weather data quality. NEWA is online, open access, and user-friendly with a proven track record of improving pest management and reducing pesticide inputs. By combining meteorological data with confirmed research models on pest and crop development into interactive tools for integrated pest management (IPM) and crop management, NEWA helps growers save sprays, improve crop quality, and stay in business.