Western Growers and the Bioeconomy Science Institute have published Guidelines for commercial field trials, grower assessment and industry adoption.
Through a global collaborative effort involving industry and research experts, this framework was drafted at the International Biopesticides Research Workshop, sponsored by Western Growers, held in June 2025 at the University of California, Davis. The guidelines consolidate insights from international researchers, product registrants, growers, and commodity groups to create a scientifically sound path for evaluating biopesticides.
The agricultural landscape is shifting due increasing pest resistance and a changing policy and social landscape for pest control tools, among other pressures. While the biological products market is projected to reach nearly $28 billion by 2028, growers often find it difficult to navigate the diverse array of new biopesticides. The guidelines address the complexity of trialing biopesticides, which often differ from traditional synthetics in terms of knockdown speed and environmental sensitivity as well as provide a transparent framework for validation. Growers are in need of further resources to navigate the process of identification for high-performing products and those in need of further development. This practical framework to help growers overcome barriers to integration, can support biopesticide adoption as a reliable tool for sustainable agriculture.
Key takeaways include:
- Rigorous Field Validation: Successful adoption will rely on trials that reflect real-world commercial conditions, including variations in climate, soil, and water quality.
- Economic Viability (ROI): Trials must demonstrate a clear Return on Investment (ROI) for growers, measuring benefits like yield improvements, input cost savings, and labor efficiency.
- Standardized Reporting: The industry is encouraged to use standard reporting templates to ensure consistency, transparency, and comparability across different regions.
- IPM Integration: Biopesticides should be evaluated for their fit within existing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs, focusing on how they can reduce resistance and protect beneficial species.
- Food Safety and Compliance: Rigorous adherence to regulatory standards, including microbial purity and pre-harvest intervals, remains a top priority for products used on fresh produce.
For detailed protocols on commercial trials, grower assessment checklists, and the full biopesticide development pipeline, please refer to the complete document here: