The Gwydir Valley region has been experiencing varying but rising levels of the incidence of Silver Leaf Whitefly (SLW) over the last few years, and the Macquarie is only a season or two behind. The growers and consultants in both the Gwydir and Macquarie valleys see this as a significant emerging issue and are highly supportive of Area Wide Management Groups that could possibly help implement a more targeted approach to the prevention and management of SLW.

The project proposed to engage in peer to peer learning to support consultants and growers in their management of SLW. The experience of consultants and growers in Emerald, St George and the Macintyre would provide insight into what may happen if this pest is not controlled in an appropriate manner. Importantly, CottonInfo and the Macquarie and Gwydir Valley Cotton Grower Associations (CGA) want to ensure that consultants and growers fully understand the potential implications from a fibre quality perspective. Can we effectively link the impact of cotton fibre discounts with the effective implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).