The use of participatory approaches in the development and extension of fall armyworm management practices for the Australian vegetable industry

Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda (fall armyworm) was first detected in Northern Australia in
February 2020 and its establishment caused economic losses to sweet corn and maize. We used Participatory Action Research (PAR) methods to co-develop and deliver the best management
options (BMOs) for the sweet corn industry and valuable information for other crops. Various
extension methods combined with three FAW BMOs demonstrations in sweet corn were
delivered. A total of 402 vegetable industry participants and service providers engaged in the
project. Over 60% rated the field day as a useful resource for engaging, sharing, learning, and
accessing BMOs. Surveys showed that the PAR improved the participant’s knowledge of pest
biology and natural enemies, skills in FAW diagnostics, and changed pest management
practices. It indicates regular crop monitoring and choosing appropriate insecticides with
targeted applications to eggs and larvae can improve FAW control and minimise insecticide resistance development.