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| Implementing an
area-wide IPM program for stored wheat will help keep insects and molds
below economically damaging levels as the wheat moves through the U.S.
marketing channels. Well tested
biologically-based technologies are effective, economical, appropriate,
available, and ready for use by industry in
an area-wide IPM program. An area-wide demonstration
of the cost effectiveness of biologically-based, insect-control
technologies will make adoption by the
grain storage industry more likely. Reductions in the amount of grain
fumigated and fumigation frequency will
reduce worker exposure and the risk of control failures due
to insects developing resistance to phosphine. The area-wide IPM program
will also demonstrate the feasibility
of decreased use of grain protectants and thus the insecticide residues
in domestic and exported wheat, thus
satisfying consumers' and importers' requests for improvements
in food safety. Reduced pesticide use also will conserve natural enemies
that are frequently present in the
grain. If reductions of pesticide residues, reduced fumigation, areawide
suppression of insect infestation levels, and
lower insect control costs are achieved, our work
in the grain marketing system will strengthen the competitiveness of the
United States in grain-export markets. |
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