June 2019 CAPCA Adviser by CAPCA

ADVISER JUNE 2019 | VOL . XXII, NO. 3

California Association of Pest Control Advisers www.capca.com

Weeds are thieves. Time to put ’em away. End weed theft from the start. And six months from now. Trust long-lasting Alion,® the foundational herbicide, to give your trees and vines the healthy start they need. Find out what Alion can do for you at AlionEndsWeeds.com.

© 2019 Bayer Group. Always read and follow label instructions. Bayer, the Bayer Cross, and Alion are registered trademarks of the Bayer Group. Not all products are registered for use in all states. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.CropScience.Bayer.us. Bayer CropScience LP, 800 North Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63167. CR0119ALIONNB031S00R0

Cover Photo and this page: Fred Rehrman, Elysian Fields

Table of Contents LEADERSHIP 06

The cannabis conversation Rick Harrison

GOVERNMENT 08

Government Relations: CAPCA’s Engage List

PCA PROFILE 10

Adam Tavares: Dedicated to CAPCA Chapter Involvement

COMMUNICATIONS 16

2019 CAPCA Spring Summit Recap

CAPCA Annual Financial Report

2019 Renewal Information for DPR License and Certificate Holders

A conversation with EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler

Looking Back: Educating & Supporting Agriculture

1,000 students LearnAboutAg at Sacramento Farm Day

Sara Wyant

Judy Culberson

UC IPM 32

Easier pest management decisions via UC IPM’s decision-support tool Tunyalee Martin

FARM ADVISORS 38

Zinc phosphide-coated cabbage bait: an effective tool for managing Belding’s ground squirrels? Roger A. Baldwin, Ryan Meinerz, and Laura K. Snell

Tips for in-field diagnosis and sampling Sarah Light

DEPARTMENTS

05 From the Editor

61 Chapter News

Featured: Nutrients

62 CAPCA Ed & Chapter Events

Career Opportunities

Continuing Education

JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

I CAN’T AFFORD NOT TO

USE ASSAIL

BECAUSE IT WORKS SO WELL. Tim Raven Raven Ranches Selma, CA

Protect what’s important with the proven performance of Assail®. Every year, walnut growers across California choose Assail insecticide for husk fly and codling moth control. Growers know by choosing Assail, they will protect their crops, their livelihoods, and the traditions that have been nurtured for generations. Growers are loyal to Assail because Assail is loyal to growers. Just ask Tim Raven of Raven Ranches. To place your order, contact your UPL distributor.

Assail is a registered trademark of Nippon Soda Company. UPL logo is a trademark of UPL Corporation Limited or its related companies. Products manufactured for UPL NA Inc. 630 Freedom Business Center, King of Prussia, PA 19406. ©April, 2019. All rights reserved. www.upi-usa.com

CAPCA EDITORIAL STAFF Ruthann Anderson - Editor Joyce Basan - Deputy Editor Dee Strowbridge - Membership/Conference Sylvia Stark - Advertising Sales Manager Rachel Taft - Executive Assistant Adam Barsanti - Outreach Relations Manager Ixchel Flannery - Office Administrator/ Membership Liaison Graphic Design - Rosemary N. Southward southwardr@comcast.net

From the Editor Navigating the Grey The pressure is mounting in Sacramento as Legislators are placing agriculture and agricultural practices under the microscope. CAPCA continues to prioritize Advocacy and engagement on regulatory and legislative issues that impact our PCA membership. When I met with the Government Relations Committee as well as CAPCA Principle Lobbyist George Soares over the last few months regarding bills we wanted to watch or engage on, it became increasingly clear that for CAPCA there is a grey area for our engagement on so many of these controversial issues. It can be difficult to navigate exactly how CAPCA should respond on behalf of PCAs when L.A. County issues a 60-day moratorium on glyphosate, followed by a gutted version of SB 468 directed specifically at the active ingredient, and Chlorpyriphos is threatened by SB 458, a mandatory EPA review and product cancelation by CDPR. It is a grey area for CAPCA as active ingredients (AI) are pitted against one another and discussions around how efficacious one AI might be over another are openly questioned by those who aren’t in the field day to day. CAPCA’s agenda is to keep the maximum number of tools in the PCA’s IPM toolbox. To best support this, we have to keep the following in perspective: • CAPCA does not represent the interests of the manufacturer or registrant. It is the responsibility of those parties to defend the relevant science or to develop the label. • CAPCA does not represent the interests of the grower, who ultimately has to defend their right to farm and to oppose initiatives which threaten their land value. • CAPCA does not possess the scientific capability to provide data or evidence regarding a family of chemistries. • CAPCA’s limited resources will be focused to represent the interests of the PCA, who’s ever-evolving practice of integrated pest management (IPM) enables the management of emerging pests and the development of new strategies to promote plant health and to maintain safe and abundant food supplies around the state. When CAPCA thoughtfully considers our response to each bill, know that leadership is keeping the PCA, not competing interests in mind as we commit to a position. Short summaries and position on bills CAPCA have selected for this session are on page 8.

MISSION & PURPOSE California Association of Pest Control Advisers (CAPCA) is a non-profit voluntary mutual benefit association that represents 75% of the 4,000 California EPA licensed pest control advisers. CAPCA’s purpose is to serve as the leader in the evolution of the pest management industry through the communication of reliable information. CAPCA is dedicated to the professional development and enhancement of our members’ education and stewardship which includes legislative, regulatory, continuing education and public outreach activities. PUBLISHING INFORMATION CAPCA Adviser is published bi-monthly by the California Association of Pest Control Advisers (CAPCA), 2300 River Plaza Dr., Suite 120, Sacramento, California 95833. Web: www.capca.com, (916) 928‑1625. POSTMASTER: send address change to CAPCA. A portion of CAPCA membership dues is used to provide subscription privileges to the Adviser magazine. Non-member subscriptions are $30/year. Third class bulk postage paid at Tucson, AZ and at additional mailing offices. CAPCA has endeavored to include appropriate and accurate statements, but disclaims any and all warranties and/or responsibility for the statements or articles submitted to CAPCA Adviser that may have additionally been edited for style, content and space prior to publication. Views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent CAPCA policies, or positions or endorsements. Editorial content of this publication is educational and informational in nature. No part of this publication, including images, may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. Contact CAPCA at (916) 928‑1625 for reprint authorization. PRINTING: Sundance Press Tucson, Arizona

Ruthann Anderson, Editor ruthann@capca.com AT THE CENTER OF PLANT HEALTH

JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

LEADERSHIP

The cannabis conversation Rick Harrison, CAPCA Chairman

AAAHHHHHâ&#x20AC;ŚSpring is in the air and California is green again. From desert super blooms to agriculture throughout California, most of us have benefitted from such a rare wet winter. The sweet smell of orange blossoms permeates our citrus growing communities. But, there is a new fragrance on the horizon from a crop growing right next door. Legal cannabis and industrial hemp growing facilities are making their debut in a town near you. Like it or not, the cannabis conversation is inevitable. In my area, I have participated in numerous meetings with legal cannabis growers, avocado growers, Ag Commissioners, California Association of Agricultural Aircraft Association pilots, and PCAs. We have discussed the current rules and suggestions for these crops, but the jury is still out on the specific interpretations of regulations on these new commodities. We agree that we need extensive communication among adjacent growers regarding upcoming sprays that may affect them. As a result, we have compiled a list of contacts that includes all parties involved. It is important that we all become aware of potential issues that may arise between conventional agricultural commodities and the newly arrived commodities. It is a vulnerable industry and that means that PCAs are too. Liability is a key issue for PCAs dealing with neighboring crops. I advise PCAs to exercise more caution than usual when writing recommendations on neighboring crops because cannabis is a zero-tolerance crop. â&#x2013;&#x2C6;

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

CAPCA Board Statement Regarding Cannabis The integrity of the California Pest Control Adviser (PCA) License is based on foundational knowledge of and adherence to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) approved labels. The label directs PCAs in their written recommendations relating to the crop, target pest, application rate, re-entry and pre-harvest interval. Label development and approval by EPA in accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act is a lengthy, multi-year process involving rigorous scientific research and evaluation for human and environmental health. CAPCA intends to be involved in the decision-making process and will be guided by existing legal and scientific requirements as CDPR and other state government entities engage in the process of implementing state law pertaining to Cannabis and Industrial Hemp production and use.

Calcium At Your Service

Apply CaTs® during the growing season for improved water infiltration and soil structure. CaTs works by displacing sodium to flocculate soil colloids resulting in increased water movement through the soil. The 100% soluble calcium and sulfur works immediately in the soil. The thiosulfate sulfur reacts in the soil to release additional calcium. CaTs convenient liquid formulation allows for easy application with irrigation. Crop Vitality™ Specialists can provide assistance regarding application, blending, field studies and technical data.

Learn more about CaTs on the Crop Vitality YouTube Channel.

Start a Conversation today with Your Crop Vitality Specialist Call (800) 525-2803, email info@cropvitality.com or visit CropVitality.com ©2019 Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. All rights reserved. CaTs® is a registered trademark of Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc.

GOVERNMENT

Government Relations: CAPCA’s Engage List SB 458 Durazo - Public Health: Pesticide: Chlorpyrifos Existing law regulates the use of pesticides and authorizes the Director of Pesticide Regulation to adopt regulations to govern the possession, sale, or use of specified pesticides, as prescribed. Existing law requires the director to designate and establish a list of restricted materials based upon, but not limited to, specified criteria, including the danger of impairment to public health, as provided. This bill would prohibit the use of a pesticide that contains the active ingredient chlorpyrifos. CAPCA’s Position: Oppose – Legislature upends the process already in place through DPR, legislature should not make regulatory decisions. AB 468 Muratsuchi - Pesticides: Schoolsites: Organic Landscape Management Practices The Healthy Schools Act of 2000 requires the Department of Pesticide Regulation to promote and facilitate the adoption of integrated pest management programs and to facilitate the least hazardous pest control policies at schoolsites, as defined. This bill would prohibit the outdoor use at a schoolsite of a pesticide that contains glyphosate. The bill would require pest management practices employed in place of the use of glyphosate at a schoolsite to be consistent with the state policy to use effective least toxic pest management practices at schoolsites, as provided. To the extent the bill would add to the duties of schools, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. CAPCA’s Position: Educate/Oppose – issue is not the active ingredient being applied, but the professionalism of the application. AB 450 Irwin – Bees: Apiary Protection Act Existing law, the Apiary Protection Act, provides for the regulation and management of apiaries. Existing law requires that registration of an apiary be filed with the agricultural commissioner of the county in which the apiary is located, or with the Secretary of Food and Agriculture if there is no agricultural commissioner in the county. Existing law requires any person relocating a colony of bees from a registered apiary in one county to another county where the apiary is not registered to notify the county agricultural commissioner within 72 hours of the first movement. Existing law conditions the availability of certain protections under the Apiary Protection Act on a beekeeper’s compliance with this requirement. This bill would recast provisions regarding notice of relocation within a county to be consistent with those regarding notice of relocation to another county. This bill contains other related provisions and other existing laws. CAPCA’s Position: Support – CACASA-sponsored bill to clean up additional language impacting BeeWhere.

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

AB 215 Mathis – Dumping Existing law prohibits dumping waste matter in or upon a public or private highway or road, in or upon private property into or upon which the public is admitted by easement or license, upon private property without the consent of the owner, or in or upon a public park or other public property. A violation of these provisions is an infraction punishable by an escalating fine based on conviction number. The bill would also require the fine to be doubled for the 4th or subsequent violation if the prosecuting attorney pleads and proves, or, in an infraction case, if the court finds, that the waste placed, deposited, or dumped includes used tires. This bill contains other related provisions and other existing laws. CAPCA’s Position: Support ACA 3 Mathis – Clean Water for All Act This measure, would additionally require, commencing with the 2021–22 fiscal year, not less than 2% of specified state revenues to be set apart for the payment of principal and interest on bonds authorized pursuant to the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014; water supply, delivery, and quality projects administered by the department, and water quality projects administered by the state board, as provided. This bill contains other existing laws. CAPCA’s Position: Support SB 62 Dodd - Endangered Species: Accidental take associated with routine and ongoing agricultural activities: state safe harbor agreements. This bill would extend this exception for incidental take permits to January 1, 2024, and would limit this exception to an act by an individual farmer or rancher or a bona fide employee of a farmer or rancher. The bill would also require a person, when an accidental take is known to occur under these provisions, to report the take to the department within 10 days. By creating a new reporting requirement, the violation of which would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. This bill contains other related provisions and other existing laws. CAPCA’s Position: Support – Farm Bureau Sponsored Bill AB 409 - Limon - Climate Change: Agriculture Grant Program This bill would require the Director of State Planning and Research to establish and administer a competitive grant program, as specified, for activities that include developing specified planning tools for adapting to climate change in the agricultural sector, conducting specified pilot projects in the central valley, central coast, and desert regions of the state, and holding trainings for technical assistance providers on how to use the specified planning tools. The bill would require the director, no later than June 30, 2020, to make available, upon appropriation, up to $2,000,000 to fund the grant program, as specified. CAPCA’s Position: Support █

SIGNS OF A POWDERY MILDEW PROBLEM?

YOU’VE ALREADY WAITED TOO LONG. Stop Powdery Mildew before it starts with the advanced science of PROLIVO® 300SC fungicide. Early control is critical to prevent a Powdery Mildew epidemic. Used as a preventative treatment, PROLIVO® 300SC inhibits the disease before it can become a problem. Its effective chemistry can even protect untreated plant surfaces through redistribution on the leaf surface and vapor activity. In a disease management program, add FERVENT® 475SC fungicide as a partner for rotation with PROLIVO for Powdery Mildew control and Botrytis suppression to yield healthy fruit and a healthy harvest.

KENJA®

PROLIVO AND FERVENT FUNGICIDES ARE SOLD EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH HELENA AGRI-ENTERPRISES AND TENKOZ MEMBER COMPANIES.

Always read and follow label directions. Check with your retailer to confirm PROLIVO and FERVENT are registered for use in your state. PROLIVO and FERVENT are inventions and registered trademarks of Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd., and manufactured and developed by ISK Biosciences Corporation. © 2019 Summit Agro USA, LLC. All rights reserved

PCA PROFILE

Adam Tavares: Dedicated to CAPCA Chapter Involvement By CAPCA Staff Adam Tavares graduated from California State University, Fresno with a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Science. In addition to his PCA license, which he obtained in 2009, Adam also holds a QAL and Water Distribution 1 license. The major crops he consults in are almonds, pistachios, citrus, olives, grapes, corn and alfalfa, and specializes in permanent crops, nutrition management and spray calibration. He currently works with Bayer Crop Science, Monsanto Legacy and for the last two and half years has covered Northern and Coastal California to manage and maintain the Monsanto Legacy product line through distribution retail outlets. Asked how he describes his role for someone outside the industry Adam responded, “I tell people that as PCA on the manufacturing side I am there to train, educate and assist PCAs with our products and help them apply them safely and effectively, to provide a safe

food source to the public.” Other career experience includes four years as a seasonal Ag Inspector’s aide for the Monterey County Agricultural Commissioner’s office, and eight years with S&J Ranch – Wonderful Ag Management as a PCA and then Manager of Technical Service and Spray Operations. When sharing about how he became a PCA, Adam credits one of his college professors at Fresno State, Dr. Roberts. “He played a huge role in getting me to refocus in college and graduate. He is the one who told me about being a PCA. I really liked the aspect of being outside and in the field. He pointed me in this direction and I haven’t looked back since.” Talking about his career experience and the rewards of being a PCA, it’s people that clearly stand out as the highlight for Adam. “I have been really lucky to train from some of the best in the field,” he says. “While I was with Wonderful Ag Management, it Photos: Elyse Frelinger

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Higher Almond Yields with Luna

Luna Sensation® | Luna Experience®

From bloom to harvest Luna® fungicide protects almonds from

8 major diseases to improve plant health and ensure higher almond yields season after season.

How It Works

PRAY AT BLOOM FOR BEST RESULTS AT HARVEST.

LUNA® OUT-YIELDS IN PERFORMANCE TRIALS Merivon® by +251 lbs./A average

Luna® is a breakthrough systemic fungicide with uniform uptake after application, allowing it to effectively enter the buds, blooms and new tissue where disease hides. Make Luna a cornerstone of your fungicide program to control eight almond diseases for long-term tree health.

Protection Means Proﬁts

Pristine® by +110 lbs./A average

Luna® out-yields Merivon® by more than 251 lbs./A.

+251 lbs. = an additional Merivon 3,102

3,353

2,778

SPRING AND EARLY SUMMER (AROUND BLOOM TIME) IS WHEN MOST DISEASES OCCUR.

Scab

Jacket Rot

Cladosporium carpophilum

Botrytis cinerea

Shothole

Hull Rot

Wilsonomyces carpophilus

Rhizopus spp. Monilinia spp.

Colletotrichum acutatum

Monilinia laxa

Alternaria Leaf Spot Alternaria alternata

Luna out-yields Pristine® by more than 110 lbs./A.

+110 lbs. = an additional

$ 351/A

*Source: Average yield gain in dollars per pound based on California Agricultural Statistics Review, 2014–2015 2014–2015, California Department of Food and Agriculture, page 81.

Anthracnose

Brown Rot Blossom Blight

$ 800/A

Pristine 2,668

8 DISEASES Almond Leaf Rust Tranzschelia discolor

THAT IMPACT ALMOND TREE HEALTH & YIELD

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW LUNA CAN HELP YIELD ABUNDANT HARVESTS AT LUNAFUNGICIDES.COM. © 2018 Bayer CropScience LP, 2 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. Always read and follow label instructions. Bayer, the Bayer Cross, Luna, Luna Experience, and Luna Sensation are registered trademarks of Bayer. Pristine and Merivon are registered trademarks of BASF Corporation. Not all products are registered for use in all states. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.CropScience.Bayer.us.

JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

PCA PROFILE, CONT: Adam Tavares

was a demanding job, but my bosses have always been fair and willing to pass down years of knowledge you can’t get anywhere but the fields. The same has held true with Monsanto and the experience my co-workers have shared comes only from experience and hard work.” Speaking of his current role he says, “I am able to see most parts of California Agriculture. On a Monday I can be in the rice fields in Colusa. Wednesday I can be in King City looking at grapes and on Friday be in the Central Valley looking at citrus. I am able to meet and interact with great people who all share a passion for Agriculture.” Asked about career “wins” that he’s been proud to be a part of Adam says, “One of the things I enjoy the most is running into past employees that I helped train and see how they are flourishing in their respective fields. To see them doing great is a win for me. I also enjoy running into people who I have helped set up a spray program and hearing about their success or how they have expanded from our original plan to more acres.” Adam is honest about why he initially became a CAPCA member: “Like most, I joined CAPCA to track my hours, not knowing the amazing things that CAPCA is doing behind the scenes at local and state levels.” For newer PCAs and members not involved yet Adam says, “CAPCA has everything you need at your fingertips, you just have to make the move to get involved. From industry networking, continuing education hours, to ‘ag-vocating’ for our industry, it has it all.” Currently Adam serves as the Fresno-Madera Chapter State Director and on CAPCA’s Government Relations Committee. Asked why he decided to get involved he candidly shares, “I volunteered because I was complaining of the lack of support on an issue from CAPCA and my wife pointed out that I didn’t have a right to complain as I was not involved. CAPCA wasn’t the problem, it was my approach to the situation. I called Ruthann [CAPCA’s President] and asked how I can help and get involved. I volunteered at the local level and at the state level.” For PCAs who aren’t engaged members, Adam challenges, “I want to start with every person who says that they just track hours, they need to get involved – CAPCA has so much to offer from Government Relations, scholarships for college students, support for Ag in the Classroom, preparing college students to be PCAs, industry updates and more.” Adam sees CAPCA as on the front lines in a political atmosphere that is anti-ag. “Decisions are being made daily at the State capital that affects our industry and how you as a PCA and or your company will operate in California.” Considering CAPCA’s future he says, “In the future I hope CAPCA will continue to reach out to the inner city legislators and get them out in a truck with the PCAs on the farm so they can realize how their decisions not only affect us, but the quality of the food they are eating daily and why it’s important not to take tools away, regulating ag out of California.” Outside of work, Adam enjoys fishing, gardening, and camping with friends and family. His family includes wife Krista, daughters Brooke and Madison and their English bulldog Gladis.

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

HUANGLONGBING

ADVERTORIAL

HOLD THE LINE

AGAINST HUANGLONGBING.

THE TIME HAS COME TO MEET ACP HEAD ON. Huanglongbing (HLB) is the most devastating citrus disease worldwide and threatens all commercial citrus production. Since 2005, Florida has lost 72% of its citrus production.1 According to California Citrus Mutual, infected trees have been found in Southern California and quarantine areas are growing.2 The Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) feeds on new leaf growth and is a vector of the bacterium that causes HLB. Once a citrus tree is infected, the disease is fatal. At this time there is no known cure for the disease. Symptoms of the disease include yellowing leaves and bitter fruit followed by the death of the tree. Best management practices center around controlling ACP through use of insecticides and removing infected trees.

ACP and Insect Management Options from Bayer Bayer has a proven portfolio of insecticides that provides the foundation for season-long ACP control and controls other important California citrus pests. The Bayer portfolio of insecticides encompasses multiple modes of action to limit insecticide resistance and is flexible relative to application timing and method to optimize crop quality and to help growers stay ahead of HLB. BLOOM

PETAL FALL

POSTBLOOM

FRUIT GROWTH

WINTER MONTHS

ASIAN CITRUS PSYLLIDS



CITRUS THRIPS



 



PEST

RED SCALE



KATYDIDS CITRICOLA SCALE IRAC GROUP**

 GROUP 4 (D)

 GROUP 3

GROUP 4 (A)

GROUP 23

GROUPS 3 and 4 (A)

*Suppression only. **Insecticide Resistance Action Committee's mode of action groups.

How ACP Affects Citrus Plants

The psyllid damages citrus directly by feeding on new leaf growth (flush).

More importantly, the psyllid is a vector of the bacterium, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), that causes HLB and transmits the bacteria into the phloem when it feeds on flush.

HLB disease spreads from tree to tree when a bacteriacarrying psyllid flies to a healthy plant and transmits the bacteria as it feeds on the leaves and stems.

The bacteria multiply in the tree’s phloem tissue, blocking the flow of nutrients through the plant. If not well managed, trees will eventually die within three to five years.

Effective control of Asian citrus psyllid reduces the chance that a citrus tree will become infected by the bacteria and helps ensure a healthy, productive tree.

Visit www.CropScience.Bayer.us for more information. To stay informed on the latest Bayer products and solutions, visit www.CropScience.Bayer.us/email-alerts-and-updates. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Florida Citrus Statistics (2015–2016 and 2017–2018 reports). https://www.farmprogress.com/fruit/california-citrus-mutual-marks-four-decades-important-industry-watchdog-group University of California Integrated Pest Management Program, http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74155.html

1 2 3

© 2019 Bayer Group. Always read and follow label instructions. Bayer, the Bayer Cross, Admire, Baythroid, Leverage, Movento, and Sivanto are registered trademarks of the Bayer Group. Baythroid XL and Leverage 360 are Restricted Use Pesticides. Not all products are registered for use in all states. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.CropScience.Bayer.us. Bayer CropScience LP, 800 North Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63167. CR0219MULTIPB597S00R0

Thank you Sponsors & Exhibitors AGQ Labs Agrian Agroplasma, Inc Albion Plant Nutrition Amvac Chemical Corp Arborjet Arysta LifeScience NA BASF Baicor BioSafe Systems Bridgewell Agribusiness California Safe Soil Certis USA CPDPP

Converted Organics Earthsol LLC EcoStadt Technologies Gowan USA HELM Agro US Jet Harvest Solutions Marrone Bio Miller Chemical Neudorff North America Nichino America Nutrien Ag Solutions Ocean Organics Oro Agri Polymer Ag, LLC

Progressive Crop Consultant SQM North America Symborg Syngenta Taminco US, LLC TKI - Crop Vitality Trece, Inc True Organics Valent Westbridge Ag Products Western Region CCA Wilbur Ellis Wonderful Nurseries Yara North America

Worms, Thrips, Leafminers

IN ONE PASS

Only Radiant® insecticide controls worms, thrips and leafminers. And university trials in Arizona and California show that Radiant outperforms other commonly-used vegetable insecticides on all three of these pests. As a member of the spinosyn class of chemistry (IRAC Group 5), Radiant controls pests like no other class of chemistry used in vegetables. The Re-Entry Interval is only 4 hours, and the Pre-Harvest Interval is 1 day for most crops.

Visit us at corteva.us ™Trademark of Dow AgroSciences, DuPont or Pioneer and their affiliated companies or respective owners. Always read and follow label directions.

2019 CAPCA Spring Summit Recap The Spring Summit was once again held at the Pechanga Resort in Temecula, California. It was our third year hosting this mini conference for PCAs whose growing season does not allow them to attend our Annual meeting in the fall. As always, the meeting focused on the unique issues faced by Southern California and the desert region.

groups, ½ went on a tour of agricultural properties in the Temecula area. The stops included a West Pac Avocado grove; First Step Greenhouse, and Temecula Olive Oil Company. The other half of the group stayed on property for a more traditional workshop. At lunch the group was back together to get a short update from our 2019- 2020 chairman Rick Harrison.

This year’s General session was held Tuesday April 16th, and we started with Ag Commissioners from each of the Chapter regions. Ruben Arroyo, Riverside County Ag Commissioner represented the Desert Valleys Chapter; Kurt Floren, Los Angeles County Ag Commissioner represented SoCal Chapter; and Tracy Ellis from the San Diego County Ag Commissioner’s office rounded out the group for San Diego Chapter. Harvard Fong then gave an informative talk on closed transfer systems. It may not seem like an interesting topic, but Harvard had the crowd captivated.

Overall, this year’s meeting was a success. We have the exhibitors, sponsors and attendees to thank for participating. Hope to see you next year. █

Our Welcome reception gave attendees a chance to mingle with the over 40 exhibitors that were present. Wednesday’s program is where this conference differs from all other CAPCA offerings. On Wednesday, the attendees were divided into two

Effective Plant Nutrients and Biopesticides

ORGANIC

Contains Auxiliary Soil & Plant Substances

ORGANIC

Plant Nutrients & Adjuvants

Botector

Biofungicide

Herbicide EC

Blossom Protect™ Bactericide

DART Fungicide

Now EPA Approved! California Registration Pending

For more information, call (800) 876-2767 or visit www.westbridge.com JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

CAPCA Annual Financial Report for Period Ending December 31, 2018

Organization: CAPCA is a California non-profit 501 (c) 6 mutual benefit corporation. Base of Reporting: 2018 financial statements were prepared using an accrual basis of accounting. Property and equipment purchased were capitalized and depreciated over their useful lives. Income Tax Status: CAPCA and Regional Chapters, Stanley W. Strew Educational Fund, and the CAPCA Political Action Committee are exempt from income taxes under IRS code sections 501 (c) 6, 501 (c) 3 and 527 respectively. Functional Expense Allocation: 85.7% of expenses are directly related to CAPCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose and mission. Only 14.3% is spent on general administration.

2018 STATE REVENUES Total = $2,428,176

Conferences $993,986 40.9%

Continuing Education $187,432 7.7%

Membership Dues $796,005 32.8%

Advertising Income $309,083 12.7%

2018 STATE PROGRAM EXPENSES Total = $2,100,189

Print Media Prof. $111,243 Services 5.3% $134,825 6.4%

The CPA firm of Boden Klein & Sneesby performed a financial review of CAPCA, Stanley W. Strew, Regional Chapters and the CAPCA PAC accounts. They found all financials to be in order. Personnel $884,966 42.1%

Conferences/Events/Mtgs $438,105 20.9%

Office $237,757 11.3% 18

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Rent $112,342 5.3%

Interest $26,278 1.1% Contracts/Grants $104,665 4.3% Rental Income $10,727 0.4%

Travel $48,807 2.3% Unrealized loss on investments $31,717 1.5% Chapter share/rebates $24,605 1.2%

Meetings $27,521 1.3% Membership $48,301 2.3%

2019 Renewal Information for DPR License 2019 RENEWAL INFORMATION FOR DPR LICENSE AND CERTIFICATE HOLDERS and Certificate Holders Dates for Renewal DPR encourages submitting completed renewal applications to DPR by November 1, 2019 to receive your license/certificate by December 31, 2019. If submitted after November 1, you may not receive your license/certificate by January 1. You cannot work legally without a valid license/certificate. Processing time is 60 days. Note that submitting your renewal before October, will ensure you have your license by early December and allow you to renew with the County by the New Year. To check if you’re renewed, go to DPR’s website: <www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/license/currlic.htm> Address Changes Always notify DPR immediately of any address or name changes. Mailing of Renewal Packets DPR is mailing renewal packets in August to provide sufficient time for license and certificate holders to submit their applications by November 1. Renewal applications must be postmarked on or before December 31, or a late fee applies. If you did not receive your renewal application or lost it, download a renewal packet from DPR’s website: <www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/license/liccert.htm> or email us and request a copy. Business License Renewal Application The following forms will be included in the renewal packet:  Business Renewal Application  Renewal Information Request  Visa/MasterCard Transaction DPR‐105 Renewal applications must be filled out completely, signed, and submitted with the correct fee. Note: Your qualified applicator must be renewed before your business license can be renewed. Individual License and Certificate Renewal The following forms will be included in the renewal packet:  Renewal Application DPR‐PML‐141  License/Certificate Renewal Information  CE Records Renewal Summary DPR‐PML‐123  Visa/MasterCard Transaction DPR‐105

Renewal applications need to be signed and must include the required CE records summary and correct fee. Continuing Education License and certificate holders must keep copies of their CE records for three years. DPR may request copies of your CE records at any time. Submit the CE Records Renewal Summary DPR‐PML‐123, or a summary record of CE attendance from a third party professional association. Your CE records must include: • License/Certificate Holder's Name • License/Certificate Number and Type • Course Location • Course Title • Course Date • DPR Course I.D. Number • Course hours attended for each CE category • Name of instructor or sponsoring organization • Your Signature General Information about CE Courses DPR does not track CE hours for individuals, but has the ability to audit CE records. DPR approved CE hours must be obtained during the valid period of the license or certificate. The valid period is listed on the license or certificate (from the ‘date of issue’ until the ‘valid through’ date). NO grace period is given to obtain CE hours. NO CE hours can be carried over to the next renewal period. If renewing multiple licenses or certificates, you only need sufficient CE hours to meet the license with the most CE hours required. Questions about your CE hours? For questions about your CE hours, you must contact the course sponsor or your professional association. See DPR’s website for current or previous years’ courses and sponsors’ contact info:

<http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/license/cont_ed_cfm/classes.htm>

DPR List Serve Sign up for important information and updates from DPR about Licensing and CE: <www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/dept/listserv/sub1113.htm>

Questions? Email: LicenseMail@cdpr.ca.gov 20

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

DEPARTMENT OF PESTICIDE REGULATION LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION

SUBMIT APPLICATIONS BEFORE NOVEMBER 1 Mail your application before November so that your license or certificate can be issued before it expires. If you submit before October, you will be renewed by early December and can then register with your county before the New Year. Blah blah blah blah

Blah blah blah bl

AVOID PROCESSING DELAYS

Submitting earlier allows DPR staff additional time to notify you of issues or problems that could delay processing your license.

M-Z LICENSEES

DPR will mail renewal packets in August to license and certificate holders with surnames and business names starting with letters M-Z

PEST CONTROL BUSINESSES Renew your qualified applicator FIRST. For pest control businesses, the qualified applicator MUST BE renewed before the business license can be renewed. If you do not receive your application contact the Licensing Program at: LicenseMail@cdpr.ca.gov or download a blank application at: www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/license/lictypes.htm

COMMUNICATIONS

A conversation with EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler Sara Wyant, Editor/Publisher, Agri-Pulse Communications, Inc.

The Agri-Pulse editorial team recently sat down with Andrew Wheeler, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for an update on key issues under consideration by his agency, including food waste, the Clean Water Act and pesticide regulation. Wheeler was confirmed as EPA Administrator on Feb. 28, 2019, and served as both acting administrator and deputy administrator prior to that time. Here’s an edited version of our conversation. 1. How important is it for you to work closely with those on the land and those in industry? It’s very important. You can’t sit in a Washington, D.C. office building and write regulations and programs that affect millions of Americans without understanding what their problems and concerns are. I have to get out and meet with farmers. I have to get out and meet with environmentalists. I have to get out and meet with everyone. The only way you can have good public policy is by listening to the people, understanding what their concerns are and then putting forward sound policies. 2. Do you feel like you can work with farmers and continue to maintain voluntary programs while achieving the goals to protect air and water? Absolutely, if we treat farmers as partners. Farmers want to protect the environment. They’re the stewards of the land. They don’t want to pollute the land that they make their living from. It’s very important to work cooperatively and in partnership with people such as farmers….who do amazing things for the environment. We need to learn from what they’re doing and their best practices. And we need to help educate other farmers around the country as to what the best practices are and that’s part of our role. 3. The Environmental Protection Agency has said that glyphosate is safe for farmers to use and not likely to cause cancer but yet we have seen legal cases where a judge and a group of peers have suggested otherwise. Is the EPA’s regulatory review process on trial in the court of public opinion? We look at all our pesticides that we register and allow in commerce. We are taking a look at glyphosate. It’s on the threeyear track for review right now. We always look at new and emerging data and research. But glyphosate has been looked at by a number of countries and by a number of organizations and the cancer claims have not been substantiated by a lot of other bodies. It’s something we do take seriously, and we continually look at the most recent data and the most recent science.

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

4. Climate change is working its way to the top of many headlines. What guidance do you offer for those who want to make dramatic changes? First of all, we are moving forward on reducing CO2. We have our ACE (Affordable Clean Energy) proposal which reduces greenhouse gas emissions from electric generating power to 34 percent below 2005 levels. We have CAFE standards for automobiles, which are also reduce CO2. But you know climate change is a 50-100year problem. There are adaptation things and there’s more resiliency that we can be doing. At the same time, we have other environmental issues. I’m afraid that some of those issues have gotten shortchanged because of the single focus on climate by so many people. Water, for example, is a bigger environmental issue in the world today. According to the United Nations, one thousand children die every single day in this world because of the lack of drinking water. That’s a problem and we know what the technology is to solve it. We don’t have the international will to solve that problem. What I’m hoping to do is elevate that issue so we can provide more assistance and help them ---not just about providing funding to other countries but providing technology and the know-how. 5. Can agriculture be a part of the solution for climate change and carbon sequestration? It can be. For example, carbon sequestration and carbon sinks. There are certainly different practices farmers can use to help mitigate against climate change in CO2 production. Farmers, I’ve found over the years, to be true stewards of the land and wanting to do the right thing. 6. Tell us why you are so concerned about food waste? Food waste is the largest single item that goes into our landfills across the country. It’s not just taking up space in our landfills and our landfills are getting overcrowded, it’s wasting a valuable resource. That wasted food can either be used to feed people, it can be used to feed animals and can be used for energy. You could burn the food waste for energy production. We need to do something to cut that back. It’s estimated that between 30 and 40 percent of the food produced in the U.S. is wasted each year. It’s billions of tons of waste that goes into landfills. So, we are working with USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue and with the Food and Drug Administration to try to come up with some new initiatives and some new ways to try to cut back on waste. Also working with the private sector, with companies, with municipalities to come up with different uses and to capture that food before it’s sent to a landfill. █

D CONTROL.

For fast control of resistant weeds in your orchard, choose Lifeline. ®

We’ll be quick about this – Lifeline herbicide works faster and it works better to protect your almond crops. That’s why it’s the preferred choice for contact control of marestail, fleabane, filaree and other tough, resistant weeds. And that’s why it’s the number one glufosinate brand in the state of California. This year, think fast. Think Lifeline. To learn more, contact your PCA, local distributor or UPL sales representative. Your reliable weed control solution™ Lifeline and the UPL logo are trademarks of UPL Corporation Limited or its related companies. Products manufactured for UPL NA Inc. 630 Freedom Business Center, King of Prussia, PA 19406. ©April, 2019. All rights reserved. www.upi-usa.com

Looking Back:

Educating & Supporting Agriculture The Stanley W. Strew Education Fund, Inc. was formed in 1993 and received final state and federal designation in 1994 as a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. With the overall goal of the Fund to facilitate the educational needs of the pest management and agricultural industries, this non-profit charitable educational organization was formed to undertake the Plant Doctor educational program and administer the CAPCA scholarship program. Stanley W. Strew Educational Fund, Inc. Mission Statement: “We promote and communicate the development and implementation of educational and scholarship programs to ensure the future prosperity of our nation’s food, fiber and ornamental enterprises.”

Plant Doctor Program History Initial research in 1990 was implemented by CAPCA due to the growing attacks on California agriculture on many fronts. Agriculture was increasingly becoming the object of fierce criticism in the media, with many stories in the press focused on food safety or the perceived lack thereof.

Development and execution of the Plant Doctor program included: • Securing funding for the program • Development of the class plan covering four areas (disease, weed control, pest control and fertilization) in a manner that would hold the students’ interest and meet a host of publicschool safety requirements

Two factors this research demonstrated was, first, that the agriculture community was fragmented; there was no central voice carrying agriculture’s message forward. This lack of a credentialed agriculture spokes-organization in part led to the somewhat simplistic and one-sided stories which tended to paint all of agriculture with a single brush stroke. Secondly, that there was a lack of reasonable education about agriculture among the general public, and opinions on and discussion of major agricultural issues such as food safety and agricultural regulation were not necessarily based on all the facts.

The class plan included slide presentations, four hands-on class experiments, along with handouts of Plant Doctor magnifying lens, a four-color comic book about farming, and a brochure “Happiness is High Yield Farming.”

The need to educate was clear and the avenue identified for this was the schools. In surveying teachers and curriculum directors, the educators acknowledged that they were not teaching agricultural science as well as they would like to due to limited time, knowledge and resources. Planning, Development and Program Execution The objective of the educational program was to instill in as many California students as possible an educated appreciation for agriculture, its environmental sensitivity and the facts about producing safe food and fiber. The principal target audience was fourth grade students because that was where agricultural sciences were taught (in some cases, in the context of 1880’s California history) and where teachers had critical need for curriculum supplements. The development of the Plant Doctor program included six-lesson class plan supplements made available statewide at no charge to the elementary teachers. It incorporated personal appearances in the classroom by field consultants, called Plant Doctors. 24

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

The program was reviewed by several teacher associations, the California Department of Education, and allied organizations such as the Cooperative Extension, 4-H, Future Farmers of America and others. In the first year, 175 Pest Control Adviser (PCA) volunteers were trained across the state. By 1999, the number of Plant Doctor presentation volunteers had grown to over 400. At the end of first eight years of implementing the Plant Doctor program, surveys showed: • Over 306,000 students had gone through the Plant Doctor Program. • Teacher response, evaluation ratings and requests for repeat Plant Doctor visits exceeded all projections originally set by the organizers. • The Plant Doctor had become nationally recognized for its efforts as an educational program, even receiving out-ofstate requests. • The program received both federal copyright status and California trademark status. • In 1997 Stanley W. Strew Educational Fund teamed with the American Crop protection Association (ACPA) for a partnership, allowing ACPA’s Benny Broccoli and His Buddies to join the Plant Doctor Program. (Plant Doctor history and photos from CAPCA archives)

CAPCA Scholarships

For over 20 years, CAPCA, through the Stanley W. Strew (SWS) Education Fund, Inc., has awarded a scholarship to an exceptional student who is pursuing a career in the pest management industry. The Fund is dedicated to establishing educational opportunities and career growth avenues for the students of today and the leaders of tomorrow. Through the administration of the Fund, applications are made available to interested students, universities and are posted on CAPCA’s website. In the last 20 years the CAPCA Scholarship program has distributed $65,000 in scholarship to 24 students.

“It was an honor to be a recipient of a CAPCA scholarship. It helped to provide financial resources to complete a Plant Science degree in four years and opened the door to meet people within the agricultural industry.” – Robert Rumble, 2005 SWS Scholarship Winner & 12-year CAPCA Member

The scholarship program is recognized throughout the agricultural institutions, colleges and universities of California. Each scholarship recipient is honored in CAPCA Adviser magazine and acknowledged at the Annual Conference. Recipients who travel to the event are exposed to various aspects of the agricultural, horticultural and pest management industry, providing them with valuable networking opportunities. █ JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

NOW?

NEVER. CONTROL NAVEL ORANGEWORM AND NUT DAMAGE. With more generations of navel orangeworm (NOW) attacking almond crops and your bottom line each season, it has never been more important to protect your orchard with Altacor® insect control from FMC. Powered by Rynaxypyr® active, Altacor insect control fights NOW quickly and effectively with long-lasting residual protection.

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

DON’T SETTLE FOR SECOND BEST AGAINST THE #1 PEST THREAT IN ALMONDS. Control NOW with Altacor insect control. •

Long-lasting residual control.

Two-shot approach for heavy NOW pressure.

•

Novel mode of action.

Dr. Joel Siegel, research entomologist with the USDA

•

Low impact on many important beneficials and doesn’t flare mites.

Agricultural Research Service and coordinator of the

•

Control of key lepidoptera pests, including peach twig borer and Oriental fruit moth.

Altacor insect control (Group 28) at early hull split

•

Higher labeled rates than premix competitors for maximum results and minimum resistance risk.

adult activity and the option of making back-to-back

Be ready with a plan. Your first line of defense is to remove and destroy mummy nuts in fall and winter.

USDA NOW Research Program, recommends using to take advantage of its long duration of control, its Altacor insect control sprays at the full 4.5 oz./A rate.

Our recommendation is to use Altacor insect control for that key early hull split application, which is no more than 1 percent

A spring insecticide spray in mid to late April may

split. It is highly toxic to larvae

be necessary to take out eggs and hatching larvae.

when ingested and has good

The University of California recommends a reduced-

activity against eggs and adults.

risk, non-pyrethroid product to prevent secondary

— Dr. Joel Siegel

pest outbreaks. The most effective single spray is at the initiation of hull split, no later than 1 percent hull split.

If pressure continues through the third generation of NOW, use a non-Group 28 insecticide to avoid

Orchards with moderate to high numbers of NOW

treating successive generations with the same mode

may require a second application approximately two

of action. Altacor insect control deploys a different

weeks after the initiation of hull split.

mode of action than pyrethroids, organophosphates, insect growth regulators and spinosyns, making it an excellent rotation partner.

LEARN MORE. VISIT YOUR FMC RETAILER OR FMCAGUS.COM/ALTACOR TODAY. Always read and follow all label directions, precautions and restrictions for use. Some products may not be registered for sale or use in all states. FMC, the FMC logo, Altacor and Rynaxypyr are trademarks of FMC Corporation or an affiliate. ©2019 FMC Corporation. All rights reserved. 18-FMC-2442 04/19

COMMUNICATIONS

1,000 students LearnAboutAg at Sacramento Farm Day Judy Culberson, Executive Director, AITC On March 22, 2019 1,000 fourth-through sixth-grade Sacramento students from underserved schools experienced all aspects of agriculture—from interacting with farm animals, to learning about plant nutrients, to planting sunflower seeds. Sacramento Farm Day, hosted by California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (CFAITC) and its partners California Farm Bureau, Raley’s, and the Dave Joerger Foundation, provided students with an opportunity to learn the many ways that agriculture shapes their lives. For many students, this was their first time meeting a farmer. It was also their first time seeing a horse, cow, and other animals in real life, while learning about nutrition, plant nutrients, invasive species, floriculture and so much more! Groups of students rotated through presentations that included the Seed Survivor, a 32-foot mobile classroom sponsored by Nutrien, that teaches students about NPK and other nutrients needed for plant growth. Between each rotation, students visited Snack Attack stations where they

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

received a variety of popular California commodities. “This was the best day ever! I love my flowers and snacks,” said Jessica, a fifthgrade student from Woodlake Elementary. California Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross, Sacramento Kings Coach Dave Joerger, and CFAITC President Jamie Johansson, greeted the students during lunch and shared about the diversity of agriculture in California. More than 100 volunteers helped to make Sacramento Farm Day possible—from farmers greeting students as they arrived, to group leaders that helped them rotate through the stations, to booth presenters who provided student with hands-on educational activities. “Sacramento Farm Day makes agriculture personal for the students. They learn, for example, that milk comes from cows, cotton comes from plants, and wool comes from animals,” said Judy Culbertson. “These basic agricultural concepts will help our future leaders realize the significant role that agriculture plays in our lives and economy.” █

CAPCA STAFF CONTACTS

RUTHANN ANDERSON CAPCA President/CEO Adviser Editor ruthann@capca.com (916) 928-1625 x7

SYLVIA STARK

Advertising Sales Manager Advertising/Publications sylvia@capca.com (916) 607-0059 or (916) 928-1625 x9

JOYCE A. BASAN

DEE STROWBRIDGE

Programs/Communications Dir. Adviser Deputy Editor joyce@capca.com (916) 928-1625 x2

Membership/Conferences Dir. Sustaining Membership, Acct. dee@capca.com (916) 928-1625 x3

ADAM BARSANTI

IXCHEL FLANNERY

Outreach Relations Manager adam@capca.com (916) 928-1625 x6

Office Administrator/ Membership Liaison ixchel@capca.com (916) 928-1625 x1

RACHEL TAFT

Executive Assistant Leadership Institute, Grants rachel@capca.com (916) 928-1625 x5

2300 River Plaza Drive, Suite 120 - Sacramento CA 95833 (916) 928-1625 - Fax (916) 928-0705 dee@capca.com - capca.com Please enclose check payable to: CAPCA (A $25 FEE WILL BE CHARGED FOR RETURNED CHECKS) License Number:

Email:

Name:

Cell Phone:

Mailing Address:

Daytime Phone:

Employer:

City, State, Zip:

Additional Chapters you wish to join:

ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP

Licensed PCAs must join as Active Members

*2019 = $160.00 2020 = $160.00 2018 = $195.00

ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP Non-PCAs - printout not provided

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP

Must provide proof of full-time student status. May not hold a DPR license.

2019 = $45.00 2020 = $45.00

2019 = (no fee)

* A late fee of $50.00 will be charged for any 2019 Active Membership paid after October 31, 2019

I DO NOT WANT CAPCA TO UTILIZE EMAIL TO COMMUNICATE BUSINESS OR C.E. MEETING NOTICES TO ME I DO NOT WANT MY MAILING ADDRESS UTILIZED OUTSIDE OF CAPCA PURPOSES I DO NOT WANT $7.00 OF MY DUES TO GO TO CAPCA PAC** (Political Action Committee) Update your email communication preferences through the CAPCA website https://capca.com/manage-my-communications/ You can now define which crop team, chapter and event notifications you want to receive. Which of the following categories are important to your work as a PCA (check all that apply):

Aquatics Berries Citrus & Subtropicals Cotton Deciduous Fruits

Forage/Silage Golf/Sports Turf Grains Grapes Rice

T/O, Landscape Tree Nuts Vegetables Vegetation Mgmt Organics

Go to CAPCA.com and submit your membership form online to pay by Credit Card Federal Tax ID #94-2277533 Your dues payment is not deductible as a charitable contribution for federal and state tax purposes. However, a portion of your payment may be deducted as an ordinary and necessary business expense. Please advise your tax consultant if you qualify for an ordinary and necessary business expense tax deduction. If you qualify for an ordinary and necessary business expense tax deduction, you may deduct up to $143/$35 for dues of $160/$45 respectively. If you chose not to earmark $7.00 of your dues as a contribution to CAPCA PAC and you qualify for an ordinary and necessary business expense tax deduction, you may deduct up to $150/$42 for dues of $160/$45.

**The CAPCA PAC Contribution is a voluntary non-tax contribution 30

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

For CAPCA Use Only Check#___________________ Amount__________________

i c d i t e i P M resent r e t n s Ba ®

“Mite Banter”

“Ya know Ruth, Banter has long residual control.”

“Well, that’s not going to help the resale value of our leaf, Larry.”

It’s time for a little straight talk. When it comes to controlling the two-spotted spider mite, Pacific mite or brown almond mite, Banter® miticide provides not only quick knockdown, it controls all mite stages. Plus, with its long residual control, Banter can help protect your almond crop and improve your yield. So, if you’re looking for superior mite control in your almond orchards, let’s talk. Contact your local PCA, UPL distributor or UPL sales representative.

Banter and the UPL logo are trademarks of UPL Corporation Limited or its related companies. Products manufactured for UPL NA Inc. 630 Freedom Business Center, King of Prussia, PA 19406. ©April, 2019. All rights reserved. www.upi-usa.com

UC IPM

Easier pest management decisions via UC IPM’s decision-support tool Tunyalee Martin, Communications, University of California Statewide IPM Program When I talk to folks about the UC IPM website, I always say that the good thing about the website is that there’s lots of pest management information there…then I follow it to say that the bad thing about it is there’s lots of pest management information there. I think you know what I’m talking about. The Pest Management Guidelines (ipm.ucanr.edu/agriculture) are comprehensive. Our largest is the Citrus Pest Management Guidelines and the PDF is 230 pages. That comprehensiveness is great for pest management, but it can make it difficult for you, as a reader, to find the exact information you need.

Compare management practices (here in almond) for more than one pest at a time with the decision support tool. Clicking the QUICK link pops up a description of how to sample. Clicking the DETAILED link will forward you to the detailed sampling methods described in the Pest Management Guidelines for that pest.

My team works to update the Pest Management Guidelines. On our end of the field (i.e., an office), it’s easiest to structure how we present the information one insect or disease at a time. On your end of the field, you’re often dealing with multiple pests and their management options at the same time. It might not be as helpful to you when the Pest Management Guidelines are structured to talk about the management of one pest at a time when in reality you might want to look at the management options for multiple pests all together in one place. We’re working on that. We produced an online decision support tool (ipm.ucanr.edu/decisionsupport or search using the key words: UC IPM decision support) for select crops and their insect and mite pests. The tool pulls out the pest management practices (cultural, biological, mechanical, and chemical) for that insect or mite. It leaves the how-to information in

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

After choosing the pests (here in lettuce), view the management practices and select thumbs up or thumbs down to indicate management options. The decision support tool captures the pests and pest management choices in a final report that can be used to discuss management options with your grower and, if the recommendation is a pesticide application, as documentation to certify that alternatives and mitigation measures were considered.

Infiltration

of Water & Nutrition means Moisture Retention Which means less watering, plant hydration & nutrition on demand Resulting in less costs with improved plant vitality, product grade, yield & ROI

WaterSOLV™ Solutions Minerals and bound up nutrition in water and soils, made available Hardness converted to nutrition - Sodium stabilized to be inert, non-toxic Management of aerobic soil conditions by organically inhibited peroxide and dissolved oxygen In just 3 years - over 2 million acres ag under treatment and 700 water wells rehabilitated – mostly City Drinking Water Wells

Breakthrough Technology Best grapes in this valley in 20 years – It’s just the best thing I’ve ever seen I think it will not only save us money, but actually make us more For your nearest certified PCA, call or email (888) 788-5807 – info@hctllc.com Registered with NSF 60 for offline use and the California Department of Food & Agriculture - Well-Klean©, WaterSOLV™ and Water Treatment to Agronomy are Trademarks of HCT, LLC

UC IPM, CONT, Easier pest management decisions via UC IPM’s decision-support tool

the Pest Management Guidelines and lists only the practices. You can easily see the management choices for that pest. You can also use the tool to compare management practices for more than one pest at a time within a crop. Give it a try for alfalfa, almond, citrus, cotton, lettuce, or pistachio. Once you’ve selected a crop, you can choose one or multiple insects and mites. If you’re unsure what you have, identification information and a photo pop up, as well as links to more information about that pest. We’ve included a quick link for how to sample and a place to record your sampling information. Your sampling information will be included in your individualized final report. Once you’ve selected the pest or pests, take a look at your management options. Use the tool and click the thumbs up button for the practices that you are considering and click the thumbs down button for practices that will not work for your situation. If you are interested in pesticide options, select the thumbs up radio button for chemical control to see the list of pesticides suggested for that pest from the Pest Management Guidelines. Information

about the risk of harm to predators, parasites, and honey bees is incorporated in the pesticide list. Use the tool to help you through your decision-making process for what to recommend. The decision support tool captures your pests and pest management choices in a final report that you can download as a PDF and save. Use the report: • To discuss management options with your growers or to keep as a record of your decision-making process. • To assess the success of the pest management practices chosen. • As a historical record of pests and pest pressure that season. • As documentation if your recommendation is a pesticide application to cover California Code of Regulations (CCR) 6556: “Criteria used for determining the need for the recommended treatment; and…Certification that alternatives and mitigation measures that would substantially lessen any significant adverse impact on the environment have been considered…”. Contact UC IPM with questions or comments at: UCIPMcommunications@ucanr.edu. █

Clicking thumbs up on chemical control shows the pesticide options for each pest (here in pistachio for P1 = navel orangeworm, P2 = pistachio seed chalcid, and P3 = stink bugs). Additional information about the mode of action and risk of harm to predators, parasites and honey bees help make the best decision to manage pests while reducing the risk of resistance development and harm to nontarget organisms.

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

The scientific explanation. A broad-spectrum contact pesticide PREV-AM delivers quick and effective knockdown of insects, diseases and mites. There are no restrictions on the number of applications throughout the season due to its multiple modes of action.

Multiple modes of action:

Suffocation

Coating Disruption

PREV-AM is easily drawn into an insect’s spiracles, moving into the trachea and quickly suffocating the insect.

The disruption of waxy coatings on insects’ wings makes them unable to fly, feed or mate.

Desiccation - Insects

Desiccation - Diseases

By drying the waxy connection of a soft body insect’s exoskeleton, body fluids leak out – causing death.

PREV-AM pentrates the hydrophobic coating of fungal mycelia, destroying the living tissue.

See PREV-AM’s multiple modes of action video.

www.PREV-AMworks.com A valuable resistance management tool

PREV-AM’s physical modes of action make resistance development highly unlikely. PREV-AM can replace application(s) of a susceptible pesticide or be added as an additional application in the spray rotation.

Benefits of PREV-AM include: • No residual activity • Quick knockdown • Multiple modes of action for broad use • 3-in-1 insecticide, fungicide and miticide • No pre-harvest interval

Learn more at oroagriusa.com

PREV-AM is a proprietary trademark of Oro Agri Inc. Always read and follow label directions.

Special to the Adviser

Micronutrients Marcus McClure, West Region Field Agronomy Manager, AgroLiquid Crop nutrition management can be challenging, and Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prolonged wet winter and spring made early fertilizer applications difficult. With bloom in the rear-view mirror, it is time to focus on micronutrients. While micronutrients are applied in small doses, they are just as important to overall plant health and fruit quality as macro and secondary nutrients. Micronutrients are stored in organic matter in the soil. The first step in making a micronutrient recommendation is being sure you have the most up-to-date information from the plant in the form of a soil and leaf tissue sample. While soil test analyses will provide details as to what nutrients are present in the soil, and leaf tissue samples will explain which nutrients are actually available for uptake by the plant. Micronutrients, just like all nutrients, can easily be tied up in the soil by other positively and negatively charged ions. Knowing which micronutrients are tied up is key when making a recommendation in-season. It is also important to keep in mind that not all micronutrient products are created equally. The raw material source as well as the chelate used to transport nutrients to the plant is vital to the success of an application.

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Zinc (Zn++) Zinc is generally regarded as the most commonly deficient micronutrient in California soils. Its deficiencies show up in plants as reduced leaf size, interveinal chlorosis, and reduced bud formation. Other factors that lead to Zinc deficiency are having basic or alkaline soils, low organic matter (OM) and high phosphorus in the soil. Zn is important in the production of indole acetic acid (IAA), a naturally occurring plant hormone. Zinc also plays a key role in having an even or uniform maturity at harvest time. Some common crops where a supplemental Zn application may have to be made during the season are: tree nuts, tomatoes, corn, cotton, grapes and citrus. A foliar application may be the best way to apply Zinc for an in-season application. Manganese (Mn++) Manganese is also a commonly deficient micronutrient in California. Mn deficiencies show up as interveinal chlorosis on leaves. Because manganese is not very mobile in the plant, deficiencies will show up in the youngest leaves first. Mn plays a vital role, along with iron, in chlorophyll formation in plants. Deficiencies of manganese are worsened in sandy soils with a pH above 6. Mn deficient symptoms will also show up in cool and wet weather conditions for an extended period of time. Foliar applications of Mn and Zn are common in tree nuts and citrus throughout California.

Iron (Fe++) Iron, along with manganese, is the key nutrient needed for chlorophyll formation in plants. Ironically, an iron deficiency can show up as a result of applying too much manganese. Typical iron deficiencies show up as interveinal chlorosis on leaves, twig dieback, and can even cause plant death in severe circumstances. Deficiencies usually appear in high pH soils, calcareous soils, soils with excessive phosphorus, and soils with poor drainage. Corn, alfalfa, and tree nuts have all shown iron deficiencies in California. Boron (B) Cell division in plants is reliant on adequate amounts of boron, as well as the secondary nutrient calcium. Having proper levels of boron in plants during pollination and fruit development is crucial for each plant to reach its yield potential. Some symptoms of boron deficiency include: reduced flowering, and thickened and wilted leaves. Boron availability decreases as soils start to dry out from the winter and spring, therefore boron deficiencies will tend to show up more in drought conditions. Boron toxicity has been known to show up in rare cases in California. If toxicity symptoms are present, get your irrigation water tested as that is usually the culprit to boron toxicity. Copper (Cu+) Plants are rarely deficient in copper because such a low amount is needed for most crops. Copper is used for photosynthesis in the plant as well as seed development. Stunted growth along with leaf margin chlorosis are common symptoms of copper deficiency. A copper deficiency can be made worse by applying high rates of

nitrogen to the plant. If copper is not present in the soil, the plant’s yield potential can be greatly reduced due to the plant aborting flowers. Cu is the most immobile micronutrient; therefore, a foliar application is the best way to apply copper to the plant. Molybdenum (Mo) Molybdenum is a micronutrient that plays a large role in symbiotic fixation of nitrogen by legume crops. Mo also aids in iron and phosphorus metabolism in the plant. Symptom deficiencies show up as poor growth and reduced nodulation in legume crops. High levels of molybdenum are toxic to grazing animals such as livestock. Making a Recommendation When making a sound nutrient recommendation be sure to use all available tools at your disposal. Soil samples, leaf tissue samples, crop removal nutrient calculators and past yield data are all important factors in making a smart recommendation. Always keep in mind that too much of a nutrient can be as bad – or worse – than too little. Also, be sure to use the 4R method when planning your recommendations: Right source, Right rate, Right time, and Right place. If you have questions or concerns about a crop nutrition plan, remember there are experts in this field available for consultation. Using all of these available resources will help guide sound recommendations, and a sustainable future for our industry. █

DON’T FALL FOR THEIR BULL. Buck the rest. Get Acadian®. Talk is cheap. Other products claim to be as eﬀective as Acadian® but lack the research or in-ﬁeld trials to prove it. Ask for the ingredients. Ask for the research. Better yet – Ask for Acadian®… 100% Ascophyllum nodosom. Get growing.

Acadian Plant Health™ is a division of Acadian Seaplants Limited, Acadian® is a registered trademark of Acadian Seaplants Limited.

Do Not Print (for office use only)

Potency matters. Get growing.

acadian-usa.com

McDaniels Marketing • Client: Acadian• “Acadian Aggressive Campaign-Bull Creative” Print Ad • #10568 • Ad Size: Half Page horizontal, 7-1/2” x 4.-3/4” 4/c,ADVISER 300 dpi JUNE 2019 | CAPCA • CAPCA • Pub Deadline: 4/15/19

FARM ADVISORS

Zinc phosphide-coated cabbage bait: an effective tool for managing Belding’s ground squirrels? Roger A. Baldwin, Human-Wildlife Conflict CE Specialist, Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology, UC Davis Ryan Meinerz, Staff Research Associate II, Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology, UC Davis Laura K. Snell, County Director and Livestock and Natural Resources Advisor-Modoc County Farmers in northeastern California have long struggled to manage Belding’s ground squirrel (Urocitellus beldingi) damage in hay crops. Belding’s ground squirrel (Fig. 1) is a smaller ground squirrel species found in Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, and Siskiyou Counties, as well as substantial portions of the northern Sierra Mountains. Damage is most commonly observed in alfalfa and other hay crops, but can extend into other cropping systems, as well as forage loss in rangelands. The most common damage is crop and forage loss associated with direct consumption, mound construction, trampling, and vegetation removal to improve sight lines. Past studies have suggested losses of 17% to 66% from Belding’s ground squirrels in alfalfa from this kind of damage (see Whisson et al. 1999 for review). However, mounds associated with their burrow entrances can also cause damage to farm equipment, can reduce the quality of hay, and lead to increased soil erosion when water channels through the burrow system. Ground squirrel management in agricultural fields often relies heavily on some combination of rodenticides, burrow fumigation, and trapping. However, Belding’s ground squirrels are often far

Fig. 1. Belding’s ground squirrel eating cabbage

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

more numerous than many other ground squirrel species, making effective control via trapping or burrow fumigation very challenging, costly, and often impractical in areas with high-density populations. Rodenticide use for ground squirrels is generally focused on grain or pelletized bait given the ability to store these baits for long periods of time, as well as the ability for manufacturers to mix these baits in a controlled environment. However, Belding’s ground squirrels do not regularly consume grain; subsequent efficacy with this style of bait has often been spotty at best. Because of these shortcomings, shooting has been the primary tool for managing Belding’s ground squirrels for the last several decades even though there is little known on the efficacy of this approach. Furthermore, there is concern about lead poisoning of nontarget scavengers from these shooting activities. Collectively, these concerns led Oregon to approve a Special Use Permit in 2014 to use a zinc phosphidecoated cabbage bait for the control of Belding’s ground squirrels. California followed suit in 2015, although little was known about the efficacy of this bait application approach, nor what risk it might potentially pose to nontarget species. Therefore, we established a study to test the efficacy of a zinc phosphide-coated cabbage

Advertorial

Reach Higher Crop Performance with Robust Transplants

MycoApply ® EndoMaxx establishes a strong foundation for transplant production. Plant and soil health below the surface is just as vital as it is above the ground—and establishing the best start at transplant helps get the most out of a crop at harvest. “In order to produce healthy and high yielding crops, it’s important to consider the means for a successful transplant production,” said Mike Martin, vegetable crop manager at Valent. “It starts with developing a strong root system, ultimately allowing growers to reap the full yield benefits from their crops.” Building Better Crop Performance at Transplant MycoApply EndoMaxx improves a crop transplant’s survivability and output through root mass expansion, nutrient uptake and drought tolerance. For optimal plant/ soil health, performance and yield for vegetables and berries, growers should use MycoApply EndoMaxx as a pre-plant tray drench, in at-plant transplant water or via subsurface drip tape injection. The following chart demonstrates that tomato transplants treated with MycoApply EndoMaxx yielded 11% more marketable fruit when applied at planting in the transplant water and 36% more from a subsurface drip tape injection. MycoApply EndoMaxx Increases Fresh Tomato Yield 60

51.2 a

Yield (lbs/plot)

50 40

42.0 ab 37.7 b

30 20 10 0 Untreated

MycoApply EndoMaxx 4 grams/A (At-planting in transplant water)

MycoApply EndoMaxx 4 grams/A (Subsurface drip tape injection)

Untreated

MycoApply EndoMaxx 8 grams/A

Drought Tolerance and Nutrient Uptake MycoApply EndoMaxx contains four species of mycorrhizal fungi that colonize a plant’s root system through a network of hyphae. After applying, the hyphae penetrate soil spaces to access and store water that is unavailable to the thicker root hairs, building up the plant’s drought tolerance. In addition, MycoApply EndoMaxx hyphae act as a network of microscopic structures that can access nutrients from the soil that the root system typically can’t reach, such as phosphorus, nitrogen and other available micronutrients. Growers should incorporate MycoApply EndoMaxx early in the plant’s development to allow enough time for colonization to occur and to maximize the full benefits of the preferred application method—whether it be pre-plant tray drench, in at-plant transplant water or via subsurface drip tape injection. “MycoApply EndoMaxx is a proven, sustainable tool for growers looking to maximize their production,” said Martin. “By enhancing the plant’s health belowground, MycoApply EndoMaxx improves the performance of transplants and subsequently allows growers to achieve better crop performance and quality aboveground.”

Source: Valent research trial, Vero Beach, Fla. Yield is from all harvests combined. Means followed by the same letters are not statistically different (P<=0.10).

In a commercial grower trial of celery, use of MycoApply EndoMaxx as a transplant tray drench resulted in taller plants with larger stalk diameters and increased trimmed stalk weight versus the untreated control.

EndoMaxx

valent.com/MycoApply

Always read and follow label instructions. Products That Work, From People Who Care is a registered trademark of Valent U.S.A. LLC. MycoApply is a registered trademark of Mycorrhizal Applications, LLC. ©2019 Valent U.S.A. LLC. All rights reserved. 2018-MAEX-6000. MycoApply EndoMaxx is NOP compliant and OMRI listed for organic production.

JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

FARM ADVISORS, CONT, Managing Beldingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ground squirrels

bait, as well as factors that might influence this efficacy. We also identified potential nontarget risks for bait application to assess any potential impediments to a bait application program. Bait application We conducted extensive field trials across Siskiyou and Modoc Counties in 2016 and 2017. We followed the California label for bait mixing and application. In short, the applicators cut cabbage into strips that were 2 to 6 inches in length and Â˝ inch wide. The cabbage was then mixed either in a tub or an industrial-style mixer with a set amount of vegetable oil and zinc phosphide concentrate until the cabbage was evenly coated with the toxicant mix. Both mixing methods were tested and worked well, but the mechanical mixer yielded somewhat more accurate concentrations (101% of target concentration for the mechanical mixer vs. 115% of target concentration for hand mixing) and was easier to use for mixing large quantities of bait (Baldwin et al. 2018). For application, 2 to 4 strips of bait were placed around the entrance of active burrows (Fig. 2). Half of the sites were prebaited with nontoxic cabbage one to several days before application of the treated cabbage. Prebaiting has the potential to increase bait acceptance by acclimating ground squirrels to cabbage before the toxicant-laced product is applied. Efficacy of zinc phosphide-coated cabbage We found that efficacy for the zinc phosphide coated cabbage bait varied substantially depending on the location where treatment occurred, whether or not fields were prebaited, and the starting ground squirrel density at a given location. We experienced a 23% increase in efficacy at sites located in eastern Siskiyou County and western Modoc County when compared to central Modoc County. Historical investigations have also noted lower efficacy associated with various bait applications in central and eastern Modoc County. The reason remains unclear but is driven in part by almost twice as high bait uptake in Siskiyou and western Modoc County. Perhaps identification of an alternative green carrier (e.g., dandelion greens) could overcome this bait acceptance issue. Further investigation is needed to address this concern.

Fig. 2. Application of zinc phosphide-coated cabbage

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Prebaiting an 18% increase in efficacy regardless of where the bait was applied. Prebaiting is required in some counties but not in others. Based on our findings, prebaiting is worth the effort and cost regardless of the location given the substantially higher efficacy associated with this practice. In fact, we observed increasing bait acceptance the more times nontoxic bait was applied, with bait consumption 3 times as great when four applications of nontoxic bait were made when compared to a single treatment. This much prebaiting is not likely cost effective in most situations, but if in areas where bait acceptance is low, this might increase the overall utility of a zinc phosphide-coated cabbage bait; a cost analysis would be needed to justify. Ground squirrel density was also an important factor; for each increase in 10 ground squirrels per acre, we observed a concomitant 6.5% increase in overall efficacy. This is a very important consideration given that some fields we studied had >60 ground squirrels per acre. When ground squirrel numbers are high, they are very effective at removing most aboveground vegetation. We believe this lower abundance of food drives them to consume the cabbage bait at a greater rate. When densities are low, ground squirrels seem to be less inclined to consume the cabbage bait given an abundance of highly preferred, alternative forage (i.e., alfalfa). This suggests that when dealing with areas with low-density ground squirrel populations, alternative management strategies, such as burrow fumigation, may be more effective. Recent studies have shown that burrow fumigants including gas cartridges, aluminum phosphide, and pressurized exhaust can be highly effective at eliminating Beldingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ground squirrels (Baldwin and Quinn 2012, Orloff 2012). This approach is used less frequently than some other approaches given the extensive labor and subsequent cost associated with it. However, if dealing with lower-density populations, labor costs would be reduced given fewer burrow systems to treat. Shooting may also be more efficient when dealing with lower density populations, although this has yet to be documented.

ADVERTORIAL

Crop Protection Update: Up to 50% Less Sunburn and Heat Stress Damage Now Possible Ongoing success reported using Surround® and Purshade® protectants By Sandra Alcaraz, Ph.D. Two patented products from NovaSource can make plants more productive by minimizing UV damage from sunlight and heat stress that can rob both quality and yield. Multiple independent field studies indicate that SURROUND and PURSHADE, when applied as directed, provide protection from excessive heat and UV radiation that can result in a reduction of sun damage by up to 50 percent. Both products are labeled for use on crops such as pome and citrus fruits, nuts and vegetables.

BE AWARE OF IMPORTANT DIFFERENCES IN MINERAL-BASED CROP PROTECTION PRODUCTS When considering solar protection options, consider that: SURROUND is highly purified kaolin, so as not to contain measurable levels of crystalline silica, a pulmonary carcinogen that can be found in crude kaolin products that are not purified with the same care as SURROUND.1,2 PROVEN SUNBURN AND HEAT STRESS PROTECTION PRODUCTS

SURROUND is a wettable powder formulation made from a highly engineered natural mineral – calcined kaolin clay.

Benefit

PURSHADE — a flowable formulation — is made from natural calcium carbonate.

Patented

Both products have superior light-reflective properties that help deliver improved quality and yields by: • Lowering leaf temperatures, • Enhancing plant photosynthesis • Boosting overall plant health When treated with SURROUND or PURSHADE, plants remain more photosynthetically active during periods of intense light and heat. Cooler plants also make more efficient use of water. Other benefits among the unique properties of SURROUND include: • Insect suppression — consult label for details • OMRI approved • Certified for use in organic production operations for labeled crops • Developed in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Visit novasource.com for more information, to download the label and field study results or to watch informational videos. Send your questions to info-novasource@tkinet.com.

Surround®

Purshade®

Wettable Powder

Flowable

Kaolin

Calcium Carbonate

Sunburn Protection

Heat Stress Protection

Effective Water Use

Sustains Photosynthesis

Easy to Use

Non-toxic

Certified by OMRI

EPA-registered Insecticide

Yes

Improved Quality

Higher Yields

Labeled for citrus, tree nuts, pome fruit, stone fruit and field vegetables

Composition

Engineered from Natural Minerals

Organic

SURROUND contains no measurable amounts of crystalline silica, per analyses conducted to the internationally recognized sampling and method of analysis published by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods, #7500 – Silica Crystalline).

“Crystalline silica has been classified as a human lung carcinogen.” Source: OSHA Fact Sheet–Crystalline Silica Exposure Health Hazard Information, 2002. Available on OSHA.gov.

JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

FARM ADVISORS, CONT, Managing Belding’s ground squirrels

Fig. 3. Belding’s ground squirrel consumption of cabbage bait throughout their daily activity period. The consumption index was calculated by dividing the number of videos documenting cabbage consumption (determined hourly) by the total number of cameras that were functional at a site for a given hourly category. Mean and standard error bars are provided. Differences in mean values are denoted by different letters (P ≤ 0.05).

Impact of timing on bait consumption We also looked at other aspects that could potentially influence overall efficacy including peak times throughout the day for cabbage consumption, as well as how the time since application influenced bait uptake. We observed two periods of peak consumption: mid-morning and early afternoon (Fig. 3). When possible, bait application in early morning would ensure that ground squirrels had access to the bait at both peak periods throughout the day. However, it is obviously not always possible for bait to be applied in early morning. We found that although bait consumption did decline throughout the day of application, if the bait was applied in the afternoon, bait consumption would again be high the following morning, ensuring that the ground squirrels would have access to palatable bait even if applied later in the day. Still, when possible, early morning applications are likely the best option given that cabbage desiccates rapidly and zinc phosphide degrades as soon as it is added to the cabbage bait (Baldwin et al. 2018). Nontarget impacts Although zinc phosphide-coated cabbage can be an effective strategy for reducing Belding’s ground squirrel numbers in some areas, its long-term utility will be questioned if substantial nontarget mortality is associated with bait applications. We looked for nontarget consumption of zinc phosphide-coated cabbage via the use of remote-triggered cameras. We did not observe a single incident of treated cabbage consumption, although we did observe three ravens (Corvus corax) and one black-billed magpie (Pica hudonia) poking at treated bait. The label requires hazing of birds off treatment sites; hazing efforts should reduce or eliminate this threat. Applicators and landowners need to consider this when planning for a cabbage bait application. Development of Belding’s ground squirrel management plan The use of a zinc phosphide-coated cabbage bait program appears to have utility for managing Belding’s ground squirrels in many situations. However, it is imperative that the applicator and landowner remember that combining management strategies will

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

provide better long-term results than relying on a single approach. This is particularly important when using zinc phosphide as a toxicant as rodents have frequently learned to avoid such baits if repeatedly used without mixing in alternative management tools between applications. The long-term utility of a zinc phosphide-coated cabbage bait will rely on growers and applicators conscientiously mixing and matching management strategies to maintain the use of this tool over time. The full version of this study can be found at http://baldwin.ucdavis.edu/ files/9415/3504/5013/Baldwin_et_al._Final_Report.pdf █ Literature Cited Baldwin, R. A., B. G. Abbo, and D. A. Goldade. 2018. Comparison of mixing methods and associated residual levels of zinc phosphide on cabbage bait for rodent management. Crop Protection 105:59– 61. Baldwin, R. A., H. Halbritter, R. Meinerz, L. K. Snell, and Steve B. Orloff. 2019. Efficacy and nontarget impact of zinc phosphidecoated cabbage as a ground squirrel management tool. Pest Management Science In press. Baldwin, R. A., and N. Quinn. 2012. The applicability of burrow fumigants for controlling Belding’s ground squirrels in alfalfa. Proceedings of the Vertebrate Pest Conference 25:160–163. Orloff, S. B. 2012. Evaluation of a pressurized exhaust device to control pocket gophers and Belding’s ground squirrels in alfalfa. Proceedings of the Vertebrate Pest Conference 25:329–332. Whisson, D. A., S. B. Orloff, and D. L. Lancaster. 1999. Alfalfa yield loss from Belding’s ground squirrels in northeastern California. Wildlife Society Bulletin 27:178–183.

ADVERTORIAL

Marrone Bio Innovations addresses increasing threats to almonds with two biological insecticides As the global market demand for almonds continues to increase exponentially, one of the greatest threats to crops is navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella. According to a 2018 study by Sacramento-based Blue Diamond Growers, Almond growers are at risk of losing 20 percent of their crop due to this increasingly common pest, which causes an estimated revenue loss to the farmer of $1,700 per acre.

% Severity of Infestation

“It could be a heavy year for navel orangeworm populations because orchard sanitation or mummy removal has been a particular challenge this winter”, explained Kevin Hammill, Chief Commercial Officer of Marrone Bio. “This pest can cost growers hundreds to thousands of dollars per acre because it causes direct damage to the nut and may be an issue in international markets due to aflatoxin concerns. Navel orangeworm has developed resistance to some commonly used chemicals such as pyrethroids. The addition of Venerate XC, with its unique mode of action, reduces resistance development to standard conventional spray programs and minimizes the damage caused by the navel orangeworm, offering higher-quality crop.

Grandevo Reduced NOW Infestations

(almonds)

10 0 Untreated Control

Grower Standard

2lb/A, ABC

In addition, peach twig borer and two-spotted spider e also pose threats to almond crops. A rotation of MBI’s Grandevo® WDG bioinsecticide sprayed at bloom significantly enhances control of these pests, while still protecting beneficial insects. The rotational benefit of Grandevo WDG and Venerate XC demonstrates increased control of peach twig borer and two-spotted spider mite as a secondary benefit to navel orangeworm treatments. Both Venerate XC and Grandevo WDG support objectives of the Almond Orchard 2025 Goals from the Almond Board of California –which is dedicated to producing an economically, environmentally and socially responsible crop for California – more specifically, the commitment to increase adoption of environmentally friendly pest management tools by 25 percent. For more information on Venerate XC and Grandevo WDG, please contact your local Marrone Bio Innovations certified distributor or visit www.marronebio.com.

% Severity of Infestation 200 nuts/plot

The addition of a bioinsecticide from Marrone Bio Innovations Inc. (NASDAQ: MBII) (MBI), a leading developer of biological crop protection and plant health solutions – to the May and hull split conventional spray programs decreased total nut damage by an additional two percent in extensive 2018 field trials. The addition of Venerate® XC delivered a six-to-one return on investment for growers, while multiple trials show that Venerate XC added to a conventional spray program improved total performance by 33 percent based on damage reduction and number of eggs and pests present.

Venerate Reduces NOW Severity

(almonds)

10 0 Untreated Control

Grower Standard

marronebio.com/almonds

FARM ADVISORS

Tips for in-field diagnosis and sampling Sarah Light, Agronomy Advisor, UCCE Sutter-Yuba and Brenna Aegerter, Vegetable Crops Advisor, UCCE San Joaquin Accurate diagnosis of a crop-health issue is critical for successful integrated pest management. Incorrect diagnosis can lead to increased crop loss and ineffective spray applications, which are both a waste of money and introduce unnecessary chemicals into the environment. Diagnosing crop disorders can be challenging, and may require samples be sent to a lab for analysis. As you approach this challenge, try to keep an open mind and make sure you are considering all possible causes of the problem, and are not making a decision too quickly based on a first impression. Crop health can be impacted by both biotic and abiotic disorders. Biotic disorders are caused by living organisms (fungi, nematodes, bacteria, viruses) while abiotic disorders are caused by nonliving organisms. This includes things like herbicide damage, environmental factors (moisture extremes, temperature extremes), nutrient deficiencies or toxicities, mechanical damage, and salinity issues. Biotic and abiotic disorders are managed differently and accurate diagnosis is important for effective management. Quite commonly, both types of problems can be present in a field, with an abiotic stress factor weakening the plants and making them more susceptible to a biotic factor (disease or insect). This adds to the diagnostic challenge. In this case, diagnosing only one of the two causal factors may not result in an effective management response. Again, an accurate diagnosis may take more time, but will be more valuable in the end. There are several clues that can be helpful to differentiate between biotic and abiotic disorders. One is the distribution pattern in the field. Some abiotic problems, like nutrient deficiency or widespread herbicide damage (from an incorrect mix or from soil residual from the previous season), tend to be spread across the whole field. Others are more concentrated in certain areas of the field; for instance, herbicide drift tends to effect plants on the edge of roadways or field borders and whole rows or sets of rows are affected

if there is an irrigation system issue leading to water stress. Damage from waterlogging may only affect low points in the field or the area where water accumulates during flood irrigation or rain events. If every or nearly every plant shows symptoms, then it is unlikely to be a biotic disease. Biotic disorders tend to be patchily distributedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; although this is not always the case, this is a good rule of thumb for determining whether you might have a biotic disease issue. This patchy distribution is caused by the unpredictability of living organisms. The population of soil borne pathogens can spread from one (or multiple) point(s) in the field, depending on the source of introduction. With soilborne diseases, there tends to be â&#x20AC;&#x153;hot spotsâ&#x20AC;? or patches of more severe disease and then other patches with less severe disease, depending on varying soil inoculum levels. Air borne diseases, like mildews, are often spread when spores move with wind and water. The degree of clustering of affected plants will depend on how far the spores move. If spread from one plant to the adjacent plant is important, symptomatic plants are more likely to be clustered. If spores can move long distances, you are less likely to see a pattern. With seed borne diseases, there may only be on a small portion of infected seeds that are planted. Those plants will be affected, and the pattern will be random. Most plant viruses are spread by insects, which may fly in random patterns throughout the field looking for food. The result is typically a low incidence of randomly scattered, virus-infected plants. Here are two examples of abiotic disorders in field crops in the Sacramento Valley. In this sunflower field, there were symptoms that could have indicated there was a disease problem. Some plants had rotten, foamy heads (Figure 1), and others had discolored vascular (stem) tissue consistent with a wilt (Figure 2). However, the only consistent symptom we observed throughout the whole field was

Fig. 1-4 photos by Konrad Mathesius, Agronomy Advisor, Sacramento, Solano, Yolo Fig. 1

Fig. 2

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

ADVERTORIAL

THE KEY TO UNLOCKING NITROGEN: NICKEL, COBALT AND MOLYBDENUM Relatively small amounts of these essential nutrients have a significant impact on maximizing nitrogen use efficiency in many crops What keeps farmers up at night? During the growing season, maintaining adequate levels of nitrogen (N) in the soil usually shoots to the top of the list. Many growers find that more than half of the N added to their crops is lost to the environment, resulting in a poor return on investment. As the industry continues to explore established tools to improve N use efficiency – from split applications, controlled release fertilizers, to N stabilizer technologies – more advancements are on the horizon. One option showing great promise in improving N use efficiency is the use of micronutrients as physiological tools. “Like a baker using yeast to make bread rise, growers are using micronutrients, like Nickel, Cobalt and Molybdenum, to improve N use in the plant,” said Kyle Lilly, senior product manager, at Compass Minerals Plant Nutrition. Here’s why: Nickel Nickel (Ni) is an essential plant micronutrient that doesn’t receive enough attention. A plant’s Ni requirement is the lowest of all essential elements, but is required for the conversion of urea-N into plant available ammonia-N. Without Ni, toxic levels of urea accumulate, leading to necrosis. Cobalt Cobalt (Co) is a proven beneficial nutrient, but it’s not considered essential for all plants. However, don’t let that fact underestimate this nutrient’s importance for showing up at the right place, and the right time. In many plants, Co helps by stimulating growth, flowering and fruiting. In addition, Co is an ethylene synthesis inhibitor, maintaining plant growth and extending the uptake of nutrients, which can lead

to higher yields. Finally, Co can also help with increasing drought tolerance, which can be crucial to prevent yield losses, especially in those critical periods when yield is being determined by the plant. Molybdenum Molybdenum (Mo) plays an important role in N metabolism because it acts as a key to unlocking unusable N. In both legumes and nonlegume crops, Mo plays an important role mediating multiple enzymatic processes in the plant. Although Mo benefits are well known in legumes as part of the nitrogen-fixation process, Mo is also key to unlocking N availability as well as playing a role in seed germination, stomatal aperture and stress mitigation in many crops. Ni, Co and Mo nutrition to improve nitrogen function and crop growth With this year’s rain-saturated soil and flooding, foliar fertilizers are being used extensively to correct or prevent nutrient deficiencies. New nutrient combinations, including Ni, Co and Mo can make a significant difference in the grower’s bottom line. “We conducted research that found foliar applications of Ni, Co and Mo improved almond yield by maintaining N supply throughout the crop cycle,” said Lilly. “We applied ProAcqua® Elevate (26% Mo, 2.4% Ni, 1.2% Co) at four ounces per acre at 10% bloom across four replications in California. We saw an average yield increase of 4% in this trial.” Crops produce ethylene when under stress. This is especially common in late vegetative to flowering growth cycle stages when soil moisture levels are less than ideal. A foliar application of Ni, Co, and Mo may help reduce crop stress and improve N efficiency, resulting in higher yields. These micronutrients are quickly becoming a proven established tool to improve N use efficiency across many crops.

For more information visit ProAcquaNutrients.com or CompassCrops.com. ©2019 Compass Minerals. All Rights Reserved. ProAcqua® and design are registered trademarks of Compass Minerals International, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and other countries.

FARM ADVISORS, CONT, Tips for in-field diagnosis and sampling

discoloration on the top of the sunflower heads (Figures 3 and 4). When these samples were taken to the diagnostic lab, no consistent pathogen was recovered from all of the samples. This means that even if there were some biotic infections in the field, that wasn’t the main issue affecting the sunflowers. We concluded that the main problem was related to heat stress and sunburn, a result of a sensitive variety and a very hot summer (2017). When plants are stressed, they can be more susceptible to secondary infections which means that even though there are pathogens present on a sample, those pathogens may not be the main source of concern. Identifying the primary issue is important for making management decisions so that you don’t treat for something that isn’t causing crop loss. We observed stunted plants in this bean field. There was a pattern in the field and the most affected plants were near the road (Figure 5). There was concern that this could have been caused by herbicide drift. Additionally, we observed calloused stems consistent with certain herbicide damage (Figure 6). However, when we walked out into the field, we found that all of the bean plants in the field in the healthy and affected areas had the same callousing on the stems. This suggested that the calloused stems were not linked with the stunting so we continued to investigate.

Fig. 5

Fig. 6

We walked around the field and used a shovel to evaluate soil in different areas of the field. We observed that the soil was very compacted in the area of the field where the plants were stunted and concluded that this was what was causing the problem. Upon talking to the farmer, we learned that the affected area was where water pooled during the heavy rains last winter. This was further evidence that there was poor drainage and compacted soil in that part of the field. In both of these examples, there were secondary symptoms on the crops that were not causing the primary problem. In another example of a garbanzo field last winter, affected plants were scattered throughout the field. Some plants were stunted, chlorotic, or appeared to have dried and died suddenly (Figures 7 and 8). There were concentric black rings (in a bullseye pattern) characteristic of Ascochyta blight on the leaves of some of the affected plants. However, the rest of the symptoms were not consistent with Ascochyta blight, and the bullseye pattern was not found on all of the affect plants. This was an indication that something else was going on. The PCA suspected a root or stem infection but symptoms did not match some of the commonly found root and stem diseases found in the region. Samples of both diseased and healthy plants were collected and sent to the lab for diagnostics. The lab was able to isolate the fungus that causes charcoal rot, also known as dry root rot or ashy stem blight, from four out of five samples. This disease is caused by the fungus Macrophomina phaseolina and generally occurs under dry soil conditions paired with high temperatures. Last January and February were very dry,

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Fig. 5-6 photos by Sarah Light

ADVERTORIAL

Strength where it counts When it comes to protecting high-value crops like strawberries, choose a product with multiple benefits. KENJA® 400SC fungicide from Summit Agro USA is a Group 7 fungicide that has been carefully designed to offer PCAs and their growers outstanding control of Botrytis (Gray mold), a key disease in strawberries, as well as broad spectrum activity on Powdery Mildew and Anthracnose. KENJA is also one of the most active products in its class of chemistry.

Maximize shelf life. Already proven to provide in-season disease control, a harvest day application of KENJA continues to provide disease protection. And

KENJA holds a 0-day PHI in strawberries, so it can increase marketable shelf life for strawberries, all while providing application and harvest flexibility.

KENJA® KENJA® 400SC fungicide • Attack Botrytis • Maximize marketable yields

When applied at 15.5 oz. as the last spray

• Increase sellable shelf life

before harvest, KENJA can help add days

• Minimize SDHI fungicide resistance potential

to post-harvest strawberry shelf-life.

Minimize resistance potential. The SDHI molecular flexibility and unique molecular structure of KENJA give it one of the lowest potentials for fungicide resistance, furthering its excellent disease control year to year.

KENJA®

KENJA® 400SC Fungicide is sold exclusively through Helena Agri-Enterprises and Tenkoz member companies.

KENJA was invented by Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd. and developed and manufactured by ISK Biosciences Corporation. KENJA is a registered trademark of Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, LTD. ©2018 Summit Agro USA, LLC. All rights reserved.

JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

FARM ADVISORS, CONT, Tips for in-field diagnosis and sampling

which meant the environment was right for this disease, which can be especially problematic when irrigation is delayed during periods of drought stress. Other symptoms of charcoal rot were observed including black discoloration of roots and stems, and canker development on the stem at the soil line (Figure 9). In this example, both charcoal rot and Ascochyta blight were present in the field. These two diseases have different management options and it was important to correctly identify both to prevent the risk of future infections. Many diseases have similar, if not identical symptoms and accurate diagnosis is required for effective and economic treatment. For some crops, there are excellent pocket guides that you can use to narrow down the problem. These photographic guides can be useful to become familiar with the potential problems in a particular crop, but be warned that they can also sometimes lead you astray because often there can be significant overlap in symptoms between different problems, so just because you have a symptom that matches the picture, doesn’t mean that is the cause. It is also important to know what a normal, healthy crop looks like in order to correctly identify what the issue is. Other important factors to note include when and where in the field symptoms occurred, patterns of affected plants in the field (which vary by disease), and any potential spread throughout the field. There are a few things to remember once you are ready to collect samples to send to a lab for diagnosis. It can be hard to diagnose the issue if the symptoms have progressed too far. Try to find plants that have early to middle stages of symptoms, and perhaps skip sampling the completely dead plants, unless you notice something interesting on them. Dead plants are quickly colonized by secondary fungi and bacteria that are not the cause of the problem and can add a lot of background “noise” to lab analyses. Collect a representative sample of both diseased and healthy plants. This will further allow for comparison and reduce the chance of misdiagnosis. Keep samples cool after collection and submit for analysis in a timely manner. Finally, clean mud off tools and boots to avoid spreading soilborne diseases from field to field. Additional information on herbicide damage symptoms can be found at: http://herbicidesymptoms.ipm.ucanr.edu/?src=sub. Additional information for pest and pathogen identification based on crop can be found at: http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/cropsagriculture.html █

Fig. 7-9 photos by Sarah Light 48

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Fig. 7

Fig. 8

Nitrogen Management Update November 3, 2019 8:00 am -12:00 pm Grand Sierra Resort Meeting will only be accredited with ICCA - Soil/ Water & Nutrient Management categories

$100 registration fee - meeting only $75 registration fee - combined with CAPCA Conference Registration REGISTER AT CAPCA.COM/CONFERENCE

Open to All Agricultural Professionals Sponsored by: JUNE 2019 | CAPCA ADVISER

SAVE THE DATE! PATHWAY TO PCA

STUDENT NETWORK EVENT Facilitating Conversation, Investing in the Future

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2019 | GRAND SIERRA RESORT | RENO, NV For more information about the Student Network Event, visit capca.com/pca/events/ 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. | 10:00 a.m. Educators' Workshop Registration Available through CAPCA Conference: capca.com/conference/ STUDENTS: • 1-Day Student Network Event (Sunday Only) $50

EDUCATORS: • 1-Day Student Network Event & Educators' Workshop (Sunday Only) $50

• Full Conference (incl. Student Network Event) $150

• Full Conference (incl. Student Network & Educators' Workshop) $225

CAPCA ADVISER | JUNE 2019

Photo: Fred Rehrman, Elysian Fields

COMPANY RECRUITER REGISTRATION: Contact Rachel Taft for information rachel@capca.com

Mark Your Calendar

AT THE CENTER OF PLANT HEALTH

CAPCA’s 45 Annual Conference & Agri-Expo th

November 3-5, 2019 Grand Sierra Resort - Reno, Nevada

REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 15, 2019 Conference Registration and Hotel Accommodations can be made at

CAPCA.COM/CONFERENCE

Accommodations:

Registration Rates:

GSR Standard Room - $115.00 Summit Suites - $135.00

Member/Exhibitor - $330 Non Member - $410 Educator - $225 Student - $150 Spouse - $175 Golf Fees - $100

Visit CAPCA.com/conference to see reservation instructions Please always remember to book accommodations through CAPCA’s website or directly with the hotel. Most 3rd party companies offering lower rates are a scam.

Hunting for Solutions

Questions - Contact Dee Strowbridge 916-928-1625 x 3 or dee@capca.com

November 3-5, 2019 - Grand Sierra Resort, NV