I wanted to make this point because late last week there was a report of a positive capture of two SWD adults in the Annapolis Valley (1 male and 1 female). They were found in a hedgerow.
This is an initial capture, and we will know more about how the population is starting to grow later this week. Remember the Annapolis valley is typically a week or more ahead of Northern and Central Nova Scotia, with respect to crop development and heat unit accumulation.
Note: The traps we are using this year appear to be slightly better than the ones used in previous year. That could be part of the reason we have an earlier capture in the valley this year. That being said we are slightly ahead of last year with respect to heat accumulation.
What does this mean for wild blueberry producers?
1) Continue monitoring in your fields
2) SWD has not been found in wild blueberry growing areas in Nova Scotia, yet this year.
3) There is no need to begin control measures until SWD is found in your fields or at minimum the local area surrounding your fields.
4) If you have any question or are concerned about misidentifying the fly, contact me!
I will be updating positive captures and general locations as they are brought to my attention on this blog.
Peter Burgess