16/06/17 New slug control guide launched by MSG

Simon McMunn, spokesman for the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG) explained that the group has developed this resource in support of the enhanced stewardship and the requirement for heightened protection to the environment.

“One of the four key stewardship steps for this year’s campaign focuses on the role of IPM and growers must only use metaldehdye slug pellets as part of a wider slug control programme,” he said.

“What this means is that cultural control techniques, such as ploughing to bury surface trash, and rolling after drilling to create a firm fine seedbed, should be implemented to help reduce slug activity and reduce the requirement for chemical treatment.”

He highlighted that the guide is broken down into nine key steps.

“The areas covered include; farm appraisals, soil and stubble management, planting methods, trapping, thresholds, treatment, record keeping, monitoring and evaluation and forward planning, all of which should be considered as part of slug control programmes,” said Simon.

“This is because an integrated approach to slug control is more effective than relying solely on pellets and will help ensure maximum protection to water, birds and small mammals,” he added.

“What’s more, it’s an effective tool to boost crop productivity and should therefore be a key consideration for all growers throughout the farming calendar.”

Simon noted that many growers, with support from their advisers, are already implementing IPM on their farms.

“Integrated slug control is becoming common practice on farm but we wanted to refresh people’s minds and help them increase their understanding by providing them with a visual aid that’s easy to follow.

“The guide will be a key tool for growers throughout the year and if you have any further questions about IPM and slug control I’d urge you to speak to your agronomist.”

The guide is available here and you can also request copies by emailing info@getpelletwise.co.uk.

Two BASIS points have been allocated to the guide and to claim points, members of the professional register have to read the guide and complete a short series of questions online: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/MSG-BASIS

More information on the enhanced MSG stewardship can be found at www.getpelletwise.co.uk