Managing insect and weed pests in an environmentally sound manner is an ongoing concern for agriculture and the general public. Biological control is generally a safe and effective alternative when used alone or in concert with other management techniques. While biological control raises some environmental issues, these concerns pale in comparison with those raised by continued use of chemical pesticides.  

The states of the North Central Region share common cropping systems over a wide area with crops such as corn, soybeans, small grains, and forages. Additionally, production of specialty crops (fruits, vegetables, turfgrass and landscape ornamentals) is widespread and increasing. These specialty crops often require more intensive use of pesticides. Continued development and adoption of biological control on the wide spectrum of agriculture will have a profound positive effect on implementation of IPM within the Region.  

The federal goals as well as the commonalties of crop production systems across the North Central Region encourage and promote cooperation among members of NCERA-125. We are strongly committed to both fundamental and adaptive research on biological control both as a stand-alone stratagem and as a component of IPM.  

Members of NCERA-125 are recognized nationally and internationally as leaders in biological control research. Some NCERA-125 members concentrate their efforts on a single commodity but all have broad interests and experience in biological control in the various North Central cropping systems. Overall the membership represents expertise on nearly every major crop in the North Central Region, and NCERA-125 provides an outstanding opportunity for cross-fertilization of approaches and ideas. A major objective of NCERA-125 is to transfer research findings to user groups, via classroom teaching, continuing education, and Extension programs.

For current project descriptions and members, visit the National Information Management and Support System (NIMSS) and Search for "NCERA-125".