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
Proof of concept projects were initially delayed but are now well established and underway for: Kiwifruit PSA and PVH management (Zespri), Arable (FAR), Pukekohe model farm (Onions / Vegetables), Tomato IPM (Tomatoes NZ).
A further flagship project (Soil borne disease management with the NZ Buttercup Squash Council, and annual arable and vegetable crops) is currently moving through the approval process.
