Biologically Integrated Farming Systems

Purpose: The goal of the revitalized Biologically Integrated Farming Systems (BIFS) grant program is to provide outreach of innovative, biologically integrated plant-based farming systems that reduce chemical pesticide inputs. This includes efforts to: 1) Enhance knowledge, research, and technical assistance 2) Align pest control advisors (PCAs) with SPM 3) Reduce economic risk for growers transitioning to SPM The focus of this RFP is to help growers transition away from non-selective, biologically disruptive pesticides, especially those of high regulatory concern. The BIFS program supports the demonstration, refinement, and outreach of SPM-based farming systems that are economically viable and protective of human health and the environment. All aspects of the farming system may be considered as they relate to pest management, including factors such as adjacent landscapes, whether they are farmed or not. For the current solicitation, CDFA has identified five priority topics based on recent or proposed regulatory actions and grower needs; however, projects focusing on other topics are welcome to be submitted. Priority topics: • Areawide management • Monitoring that informs pest management • Post-harvest disease control • Neonicotinoid alternatives in tomato • Paraquat alternatives BIFS projects typically include all the following elements: 1. On-farm demonstration/evaluation of an innovative, biologically based farming system that employs SPM strategies; 2. A collaborative outreach effort for sharing technical information about the farming system with growers, PCAs, commodity groups, and others engaged in pest management, and; 3. An organized program for monitoring key biological and economic variables to inform on-farm decision making and evaluate project success.

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