 Apple IPM Program
Apples are an important agricultural commodity in Vermont's rural communities and working landscape. Of all the different fruits grown and harvested for sale in Vermont, apples comprise approximately 92% of total acreage planted to fruit. The apple industry generates jobs and supports communities and businesses across the state.
Apple orchards are complex ecosystems that require intensive management to produce high quality fruit. Tree growth and fruit production are intricately affected annually by the diverse biotic and abiotic factors within the environment which include numerous insects, mites, plant pathogens, weeds, and vertebrates. Effective pest management is critical in profitable and sustainable apple production. Vermont apple growers want up-to-date information on effective IPM practices and tools so that they can incorporate them into their pest management programs to reduce economic, health, and environmental risks.
The Vermont Apple IPM Program is committed to maintaining and increasing IPM implementation in commercial orchards across the state by continuing to deliver an integrated extension and research program that addresses the IPM priorities identified by growers, their advisors (i.e., IPM consultants) and other industry service providers. Various means of education and information transfer will be used such as an Apple IPM website, newsletter, presentations, demonstrations, one-to-one education, etc. Through addressing the educational priorities expressed by stakeholders, the goal will be to (i) increase knowledge of how to use IPM strategies and techniques effectively; (ii) increase knowledge on how to prevent pest management problems; (iii) provide education that allows growers to determine if pesticides are needed in orchards; and (iv) if pesticides are warranted, provide education which will allow growers to make informed pesticide decisions which will reduce economic, health and environmental risks.
Program Contact: Lorraine
P. Berkett
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Questions or comments about site content
should be directed to lorraine.berkett@uvm.edu
Send questions or comments about this website to sarah.kingsley@uvm.edu.
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative
Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the United States
Department of Agriculture. University of Vermont Extension, Burlington, Vermont.University
of Vermont Extension and U.S. Department of Agriculture, cooperating, offer education and
employment to everyone without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age,
disability, political beliefs, or marital or familial status.
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