This project focused on increasing knowledge and understanding about the use of biologicals and how to successfully integrate them into a crop protection programme.

It was developed with extension specialists Scarlatti, and with input from an A Lighter Touch industry advisory group, which included crop protection companies and product group extension advisors.

The project delivered three components, being:

• extension support for product groups with a focus on biologicals. This work included training workshops focused on extension planning and designing a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) programme, and the development of a suite of supporting resources providing guidance on extension planning and M&E.
• an extension capability needs map. A gaps analysis of extension capability in the industry was carried out, identifying where further capability, resource, and or training was required, and developing a plan to address these gaps for ALT product groups. Read the analysis report.
• a retrospective case study, focusing on biological products which have previously been integrated into crop protection programmes. The case study highlighted lessons to feed into extension planning for the introduction of future biological products. Read the case study.

Following on from this work, an Extension Community of Practice group was formed. Open to all working in agricultural and horticultural extension, the group’s monthly meetings focus on creating opportunities for peer-to-peer learning, networking and sharing best practice on relevant topics.

Check out Extension Resources developed through this project, or read articles about the work undertaken here:

• November 2024: Successfully introducing biologicals focus of new project
• May 2025: Barriers prevent promotion of biological pest management
• 1 October 2025: Factors driving successful extension of biologicals
• 1 October 2025: Industry addressing bias in crop protection advisory system
• 15 October 2025: Guide to support extension planning
• November 2025: Resources to help with extension planning

A number of resources are being developed as part of the biologicals awareness and integration project.

Download the Awareness and integration of biologicals checklist here.
Download the Case study of biopesticides here.
Download the Advisor’s Training Needs Analysis here.
Download the Segmentation 101 guide here.
Download the Case study: Growing a grower’s group here.
Download the Electronic Grower Communications…on a shoestring here.

See the Extension page for more ALT extension resources tailored for product groups.