Understanding apple growers’ perspectives on the sterile insect technique for codling moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) management in Virginia: implications for adoption and outreach

Codling moth (CM), Cydia Pomonella, is a major challenge for apple growers worldwide due to the decrease in registered insecticides, rising resistance, and climate change, highlighting the need for sustainable management solutions like the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) and grower-informed outreach strategies. We surveyed 76 Virginia apple growers to assess their familiarity, perceptions, and information needs related to SIT, and factors influencing their likelihood of adopting a new CM management technique. We collected data at four extension grower meetings and used descriptive statistics and logistic regressions for analysis. Over one-third of respondents reported increased CM damage over the past 5 years and were concerned about management. Compared to respondents with low concern, those with high concern were 25.32 times more likely to adopt a new management technique. Most had positive attitudes toward SIT and agreed it could result in various benefits, including reduced pesticide use and reduced resistance development. Respondents who perceived greater benefits were 15.61 times more likely to have positive attitudes toward SIT compared to those who perceived fewer benefits. Potential barriers to adoption included uncertainty about SIT effectiveness and cost. Respondents identified grower case studies, research on SIT, and information on cost-effectiveness as the most helpful information types. They preferred learning about SIT through field demonstrations and extension personnel. These results suggest growers are receptive to SIT and highlight the importance of outreach strategies that incorporate social science methods to address concerns, emphasize benefits, showcase grower experiences, promote experiential learning, and leverage trusted sources to support adoption.