BC cranberry farmers may soon have a new weapon against the destructive blackheaded fireworm: a baculovirus rediscovered after 30 years in cold storage.

The fireworm, which overwinters in cranberry leaves before hatching in spring, can devastate crops. Traditional pesticide use is costly and limited for organic farmers, prompting researchers to explore alternative solutions.

If successful, this organic biopesticide could provide an environmentally friendly, effective alternative to chemical pesticides, offering sustainable pest management for cranberry farmers in Canada.

Guest: Michelle Franklin - Research Scientist of Entomology at the Agassiz Research and Development Centre

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