Project 8:
Proof of Concept – Vegetable, Fruit and Arable Agroecology
To demonstrate agroecological crop protection “proof of concept” in model systems from arable, fruit, and vegetable production. The combined knowledge of the agroecology of these systems and new information from projects within the programme will be used to demonstrate how a range of crop protection strategies, combined with an understanding of the crop’s agroecology, can produce crops successfully and profitably, and meet stringent consumer demands.
Agroecological Crop Protection programmes will be developed at appropriate points in the projects and advisory material produced for Milestones 9.1 and 9.2.
April 1, 2020
September 30, 2020 - Proof of Concept design phase completed and model systems identified and confirmed by the PGG.
September 30, 2020 - Trial sites located and links to Model Farms and Focus Groups established.
October 31, 2020 - Proof of concept projects established and continuing for the duration of the programme.
March 31, 2021 - Review progress and adoption of biopesticides, BCAs and new technology and refine Proof of Concept projects.
March 31, 2027
Progress
The proof of concept project is the most complex and challenging of the A Lighter Touch projects, and as at 30 October 2020 is running behind schedule. The Agroecology Technical Lead is working on the design phase and is identifying potential proof of concept projects. This work is due to be completed in January 2021.
