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Cheaper, Greener Cotton Pesticide to hit shelves in 2008.
25/09/2007

The Cotton Catchment Communities CRC has joined forces with Growth Agriculture Pty Ltd, a Wee Waa based business to commercially develop an exciting new insect management technology.

Research conducted by Dr NSW DPI funded through the Cotton CRC has led to the discovery of behaviour modifying plant extracts that are capable of managing cotton pests.

Roth, the CEO of the Cotton CRC, said the partnership between Growth Agriculture Pty Ltd and the Cotton CRC is very exciting as it provides the opportunity to support and develop local businesses as well as honouring a commitment to increase the availability of alternative products to growers to help them adopt the best Integrated Pest Management practices.

“This new technology represents an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to using synthetic pesticides” Mr Roth said.

Dr Robert Mensah Principal Research Scientist of NSW DPI’s said the discovery and development of the leguminous plant extract (semiochemical) allows primary insect pests such as Helicoverpa and green mirids to modify their feeding and reproductive behaviour thereby reducing infestations on cotton crops.

“The new technology will reduce crop damage and minimize synthetic insecticide use without sacrificing cotton yield” said Dr Mensah
Kerry Watts, managing director of Growth Agriculture Pty Ltd has been involved with the agricultural industry for over 35 years. Growth Agriculture Pty Ltd began operations in 1992 and is an importer, wholesaler and manufacturer of a unique range of products heavily focused on foliar nutrition and Integrated Pest Management in crop production.
“This partnership allows us to continue to develop and provide products that will enhance the production of cotton and other crops, enabling primary producers to maintain viable enterprise whilst taking due care of the land and environment” said Mr Watts.
Mr Watts believes that the newly established partnership with the Cotton CRC has the potential to extend well beyond the cotton industry and Australia, leading to an internationally recognised product that can be utilised across numerous cropping industries.
By reducing the quantity of insecticide used and the reliance on conventional insecticides, significant economic, social and environmental benefits will be conferred on the Australian cotton industry and the local communities