EIPD Key Area Detail

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Key Area Detail

• Keeping invasive pests and pathogens out of California: Costs associated with management of invasive pests and the damage they cause exceed $3 billion dollars per year in California. The most cost-effective strategy is to prevent exotic pests from entering California in the first place. Accurate methods for detecting and identifying pests and disease-causing organisms are crucial to this effort. Eradication of pests and diseases may be feasible if early detection systems are in place. UC scientists work with collaborators throughout the state to prevent invasive pests and pathogens from entering and establishing in California.

• New problems with existing pests and diseases. Californians spend significant money, time and effort each year to protect public health, food security, food safety, and the environment from pests. Pests and diseases already present can become more serious problems because of external factors, such as changes in climate, human activities, and agricultural practices. UC scientists discover and put into practice new pest control programs that reduce risk to people, the environment, and our economy.

• Integrated management. Reliance on any single method (the ‘silver bullet’ approach) to control pests or pathogens has led to antibiotic and pesticide resistance and unintended increases in other pests. Integration of multiple management tactics is needed to reduce pest and disease impact on agriculture, natural resources, communities, and human health. UC scientists are working on integrating multiple control methods, for several pests in order to achieve long-lasting, sustainable pest and disease control.