From Jim Chaput, OMAFRA Minor Use Coordinator and Melanie Filotas, OMAFRA Specialty Crops IPM Specialist.
The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) recently announced the approval of an EMERGENCY USE for Regalia® Maxx biofungicide (Reynoutria sachalinensis) for suppression of downy mildew on hops in New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. Regalia® Maxx biofungicide was already labeled for use on a number of crops in Canada for control of diseases.
This emergency use which expires in July 2016 was requested to address a serious outbreak of hops downy mildew in many regions of Canada especially on organic hops farms. A full minor use label expansion request to address the longer term need will be made this summer.
Regalia is a potential tool for organic growers, however note that not all certifying bodies accept all products. Organic growers should always check with their certifying bodies before applying Regalia® Maxx or any product.
The following is provided as an abbreviated, general outline only. Users should be making pest management decisions within a robust IPM program and should consult the complete label before using Regalia® Maxx biofungicide.
Regalia is registered for use against downy mildew on hops in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and British Columbia until July 2016. Apply at a rate of 0.25-0.50 % v/v (2.5-5.0 mL/L or 1.875-3.75 L product per 750 L water/ha). There are a maximum of 8 applications permitted per year. Do not re-enter treated areas until spray has dried. This product can be applied up to the day of harvest.
Follow all other precautions and directions for use on the Regalia® Maxx biofungicide label carefully.
We wish to acknowledge the Ontario Hops Growers Association and the independent hops growers from Quebec and B.C. who generously covered the submission fees for this emergency use registration.
For a copy of the new minor use label contact your local crop specialist, regional supply outlet or visit the PMRA label site http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/pest/registrant-titulaire/tools-outils/label-etiq-eng.php