A Needs Analysis for IPM RD&E in the Apple and Pear Industry

Client: Hort Innovation

Delivery partner: RM Consulting Group

Project delivery period: 2016

The purpose of this project was to provide a better understanding of the current use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) within the apple and pear industry and the efficacy of the current IPM manual in guiding practice. A key component of the review was to investigate whether IPM is an enabler or impediment to market access. The needs analysis provided recommendations regarding required improvements to the IPM manual and recommendations on the future direction of research, development and extension (RD&E) for the industry, which aims to ultimately improve market access of product both domestically and internationally.