Forest pest control services

Tender description

Supply of Nematodes: Steinernnema carpocapse infective juveniles. The pine weevil Hylobius abietis is a common cause of mortality in young conifers used to restock forest sites after clearfelling. Insecticides are usually needed to protect trees during the vulnerable establishment period and these are applied either before or after planting. However, there are concerns about the effects of insecticide use in forests on the wider environment. Recent changes in application technique as well as in the insecticide used, are a reflection of these concerns and of the need to reduce the use of chemicals in forests. Minimising the use of insecticides for the control of pine weevils requires the adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The IPM is a well-established approach to control that emphasises the value of releasing natural enemies such as nematodes for the biological control of weevil larvae. Therefore, the supply of these nematodes (Steinernema carpocapse infective juveniles) is required packed in sealed units each containing no less than 3 000 000 000 live nematodes and around 1 litre in size. Higher numbers per pack will be accepted but will not contribute to the total contract supply.