Area-wide integrated pest management program for Virginia creeper leaf hoppers (Erythroneura ziczac) in north coast vineyards of California

Abstract

Abstract:
Wine grape growers in California’s North Coast region recorded severe outbreaks of the exotic pest, Virginia creeper leafhopper (VCLH) (Erythroneura ziczac) in 2011-2012, resulting in devastating damage, particularly in organic vineyards. An initial assessment determined that these outbreaks were due to a lack of biological control and poor understanding of management control practices for E. ziczac, which can easily be confused with the more common western grape leafhopper (E. elegantula). Since 2013, pest management scientists from UC Berkeley and UC Cooperative Extension, regional growers and pest control advisors have conducted research and outreach to address this problem. First, an accurate assessment of the life cycle and habitat choices of VCLH were made. Surveys and preliminary experiments in 2013-2015 led to the development of an area-wide IPM program that is now being implemented on 4,000 hectares. This IPM program consists of (1) parasitoid releases to improve biological control, (2) regional monitoring and mapping using GIS of leafhopper population development, and (3) grower outreach and education efforts to raise awareness of best management practices, including pest identification, biology, monitoring, spray timing and pesticide selection. Finally, a web site has been created to share information and frequent updates on pest population monitoring, suggestions for timing of pesticide applications and other information to assist growers in controlling this serious pest. The results are positive, and both damage and the spread of the pest have diminished.