Building a Transdisciplinary Research Program for Improved Pest Management in Onion

This project will initiate researcher-farmer collaborations to addresses pest management challenges in New Mexico onion production. To accomplish this goal, we will (1) conduct research that provides clear-cut and timely information on weed control options in onion, (2) evaluate novel and promising herbicides — organic and synthetic — for onion, and (3) initiate a dialogue with farmers that will lead to agreement on the course of inquiry and action for addressing broader problems in onion production. As a result, we will develop techniques for enhancing onion production profitability, and we will establish strong, mutually beneficial relationships between researchers and practitioners.