Greetings,

On May 11, 2018 the Environmental Protection Agency approved the renewal of a Section 18 Emergency Exemption for use of the bifenthrin-based products, Brigade WSB, Bifenture EC, and Bifenture 10DF against brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) in apples, peaches, and nectarines in Virginia. This exemption applies only to the products mentioned above. These and other bifenthrin-based insecticides have a Section 3 label for use in pears. The requirements of this Section 18 are that applications must be made only from the ground, at a rate of 0.08 to 0.2 lb active ingredient (a.i.) per acre, with not more than 0.5 lb a.i. per acre per season. These application rates equate to 5.12 – 12.8 fl oz of Bifenture EC, and 12.8 – 32.0 oz of Bifenture DF or Brigade WSP per acre. Seasonal maximums are 32 fl oz of Bifenture EC, 80 oz of Bifenture DF, and 72 oz of Brigade WAB. Multiple applications may be made per season, at a minimum retreatment interval of 30 days. The REI is 12 hours and the PHI is 14 days. This insecticide is extremely toxic to fish, aquatic invertebrates, and bees, and all precautions to avoid these exposures must be observed. Bifenthrin is considered one of the strongest insecticides against BMSB but can be disruptive to natural enemies of secondary pests. Consequently, we recommend its use in apples later in the season, when BMSB populations are highest. In peaches and nectarines, it can be useful from fruit set until 14 days before harvest. This Emergency Exemption expires on October 15, 2018.

Please note: The availability of bifenthrin-based products may be more limited in 2018 than in previous years. Therefore, growers wanting to use these products are urged to contact their suppliers as soon as possible.

Until next time, best wishes.