Share to

Vestaron Crop Protection and American Pistachio Growers (APG) are proud to announce a new sustainability partnership designed to strengthen pest management in pistachio production while generating new resources for grower education, research, and advocacy.

Through this collaboration, APG members can integrate SPEAR® LEP, a peptide-based bioinsecticide with a novel mode of action, into their navel orangeworm (NOW) control programs. In 2024 Golden Hills trials*, SPEAR LEP, in combination with bifenthrin, matched the performance of conventional spray programs, delivering effective control with reduced environmental impact. With a 0-day PHI, 4-hour REI, MRL exemption, and clean spray profile, SPEAR LEP fits seamlessly into tight treatment and harvest windows.

SPEAR LEP matches leading synthetics in 2024 trials

2024 trials conducted in Tulare County (Kerman; Research for Hire) and Colusa County, California, (Nonpareil; Hubbard Ag) found SPEAR LEP is as effective as leading chemical synthetic insecticides on tree nuts in IPM rotations.

Sustainability funding through SPEAR LEP adoption

Vestaron has committed a minimum $10,000 contribution to APG’s sustainability initiatives. In addition, every new acre treated with SPEAR LEP through this program will generate direct reinvestment into APG grower programs to fund sustainability research, outreach, and regenerative practice development.

This partnership is a win for growers and the industry,” said Joe Coelho, Director of Sustainability and Member Outreach at APG. “Growers gain access to an innovative, resistance-breaking solution today, while helping fund the sustainability programs that will keep pistachio production strong tomorrow.”

By integrating SPEAR LEP, growers add a new mode of action to their rotation, reduce resistance risk, and position their operations ahead of anticipated Sustainable Pest Management regulatory priorities in California.

This partnership is about delivering immediate value to growers while investing in the long-term sustainability of the pistachio industry,” said Bill Hume, Senior Director of Sales and Strategic Accounts with Vestaron. “With SPEAR® LEP, growers get a powerful new mode of action proven on more than one million acres. We are dedicated to developing the innovative tools growers need to thrive today and well into the future.”

Growers interested in participating should contact the Vestaron field team to secure recommendations and application support.

*Conducted by Joe Coelho

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Ben Cicora, SVP Sales & Marketing • 970.443.9220 • bcicora@vestaron.com
Steve Betz, VP Communications • (515).707.6096 • sbetz@vestaron.com