Can Steam Replace Chemical Fumigants? Watsonville Berry Growers Will Put It to the Test

Can steam replace chemical fumigants? Watsonville berry growers will put it to the test

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commission is testing out a high-temperature steam alternative to chemical fumigants on five berry fields in Watsonville beginning in September as part of a three-month pilot program.

Santa Cruz County launches pilot program to use steam in place of fumigants to grow berries

David Sanford, county agricultural commissioner, announced in a news release that his office is initiating a $175,000 pilot project funded by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation that will allow several berry producers in the Pajaro Valley to use steam rather than conventional pre-plant fumigation in berry production for a three-month period beginning in August and concluding in November. During this period, the county will host com…

Santa Cruz County tests steam as alternative to chemical fumigants in berry fields

Santa Cruz County will test whether steam can replace chemical soil fumigants in berry fields, a move aimed at reducing pesticide use near schools and other community locations while exploring a more sustainable way to control pests. A field is treated with steam fumigation in an undated image. Santa Cruz County will begin testing steam as a sustainable replacement for chemical fumigants on berry crops near populated areas. (Santa Cruz County A…