Introduction to the Sterile Insect Control Program
The Mexican Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have recently formalized an agreement to support the establishment of a new facility for producing sterile insects. This collaboration aims to combat the spread of crop-damaging pests, specifically the fall armyworm, which has been wreaking havoc on agricultural lands in Mexico.
Who is involved and why it matters
SADER, an agency of the Mexican government, is responsible for overseeing agricultural policies and programs. The USDA, on the other hand, is the United States’ principal scientific agency focused on agriculture. The partnership between these two organizations signifies a joint effort to protect Mexico’s agricultural sector and promote food security.
Details of the Agreement
Under this agreement, the US will contribute resources to help build and equip a new plant in Mexico capable of producing up to 100 million sterile fall armyworms monthly. Sterile insect technique (SIT) is an environmentally friendly pest control method that uses radiation to render male insects sterile. These sterile insects are then released into the wild, where they mate with fertile females, reducing the overall population of pests.
Impact on Mexican Agriculture
The fall armyworm, native to Africa, has caused significant damage to various crops in Mexico since its arrival in 2016. This pest affects maize, sorghum, and other crops, leading to substantial economic losses for farmers. By implementing the sterile insect control program, Mexico aims to minimize the fall armyworm population and safeguard its agricultural productivity.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of this agreement? The primary goal is to establish a new facility in Mexico for producing sterile fall armyworms, which will help control the pest population and protect crops.
- Who are the main parties involved? The Mexican Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are collaborating on this initiative.
- How will the sterile insect technique benefit Mexican agriculture? By reducing the fall armyworm population, this method will help protect crops and minimize economic losses for farmers.
- What crops are affected by the fall armyworm? The fall armyworm affects maize, sorghum, and other crops in Mexico.
- When was the fall armyworm first detected in Mexico? The pest was first identified in Mexico in 2016.
