Lessons from the past: from the 'bad old days' to a modern Australian cotton industry

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In this episode we're talking IPM – or Integrated Pest Management – and taking a walk down memory lane when things were not as bright for the industry as they are currently.

This discussion will form part on an ongoing, broader discussion about reduction in insecticide use, R&D taking a broader focus on IPM and alternate pest control measures, and our industry’s sustainability goals.

Megan is joined by two respected and experienced cotton consultants who have had a front row seat to the history of cotton production pre the Bollgard/Ingard era and all that’s evolved since ... including the more widespread adoption of IPM systems.

Brian Baird services the Lower Namoi and is the Managing Director or BR and AM Baird Pty Ltd, and Hugo Weissen is the Director of AgVista Pty Ltd based in Narrabri, covering areas in the Namoi, Gwydir and Walgett.

Brian and Hugo have plenty of firsthand experience of previous poor practice when old chemistry was relied upon. That’s long behind us now though and the Australian cotton industry is setting the standard in best practice. In this conversation, we reflect on the bad old days and take a look at the lessons we can take from them and continue to better the industry in the modern era of cotton production.