EVALUATION OF THE 'GRUBPLAN' EXTENSION PROGRAM IN QUEENSLAND SUGARCANE

GrubPlan is an extension package developed by BSES to train growers and advisory staff in strategies to manage greyback canegrub populations in subsequent crops. GrubPlan assists growers to assess the risk of canegrub damage in each block of cane, and select appropriate control strategies. The GrubPlan program implemented in 2001 engaged more than 900 growers and industry professionals. Estimates indicate that greyback canegrub damage has been reduced by approximately 80% or (596 000 t) from 2001 to 2002. The impact of GrubPlan is difficult to quantify objectively. However, survey feedback from growers and insecticide sales data indicate that the industry-wide application of best management practices against greyback by growers following GrubPlan has made a substantial contribution to the significant decline in damage from the 2001 to 2002 harvest seasons. There have been substantial achievements in regard to change in farming practice. However, industry may again suffer serious levels of greyback impact should ongoing risk-management planning be relaxed.