7 Comments

We use predator wasps for fly control in our horse barn. They are tiny, stingless, active at night. They lay eggs in the fly eggs and when the eggs hatch, they eat the emerging flies.

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I completed a PhD at UC Berkeley in 1982 studying integrated pest management of mites in vineyards - my research centered on a pollen-feeding mite that would serve as an alternate prey and help keep the predatory mites in the vineyard. Hooray for the work in your vineyard!

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Fun to read about your farms.

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Your thoughts about ways for HS principals to curb the enthusiasm of their hormonal charges are hilarious. How long will it be til a court rules against it?

I’m sure you’ve researched, because that’s who you are, but I can’t help worrying a bit about the mites going rogue. That’s happened so often in the past.

I must look for your wine on the East Coast.

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Terrific idea. Hope it is a success

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Are the mites and predator wasps native to Northwest Oregon? If not, where are they from?

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Nick, I'd love to get you on Sustain What (finally!) both to discuss your book and wider lessons you've gleaned about the workings of the world though your land and life connections on the farm. Deal?

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