Extension Model to Improve Asian Citrus Psyllid Control in Citrus Health Management Areas (CHMAs)

Abstract

Citrus health management areas (CHMAs) have been implemented throughout Florida to provide regional coordination to manage Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) and spread of Huanglongbing disease (HLB). During the fourth season (2011–12), we provided Gulf CHMA updates and interactive maps with ACP density and “hot spots” on our website (www.imok.ufl.edu) using data from Citrus Health Research Program (CHRP) (www.flchma.com). Ring color of the proportional circle map designated the cycle, and ring size represented psyllid density. The map was readable by anyone with Adobe Reader and provides information for Cycle #, Cycle Date, County Name, and ACP density. The .pdf format allowed a grower to click on and off different cycle layers for comparison between two or more sets of data simultaneously and spatially. This project included development and testing of a spray app that will suggest the best insecticide for use by growers and consultants. Data would be converted to a map layer and used to determine which growers may need help and what chemicals appear to be failing—a precursor to predicting ACP resistance. Funding is currently being sought to continue this effort. We expect to build better working relationships with growers by offering individual support to their economic efforts, ACP management, and HLB control.