Boll Weevil Eradication Program Insights

The National Boll Weevil Eradication Program is a significant advancement for the U.S. cotton industry, reducing the pest's impact and pesticide use. Launched in the late 1970s, the program expanded across the U.S. and into parts of Mexico, achieving success in many states. The program's success is attributed to public-private partnerships, state legislation, and cooperation with Mexico. Despite challenges like hurricanes, the program continues to aim for complete eradication, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

What was the primary reason for the establishment of the Boll Weevil Eradication Program?

• To address the economic impact of the boll weevil on cotton production

• To increase cotton production in the U.S.

• To promote international trade of cotton

• To reduce the use of insecticides in agriculture

Which organization played a key role in recognizing the economic damage caused by the boll weevil?

• American Cotton Growers Association

• USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

• Environmental Protection Agency

• National Cotton Council

What was the role of the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in the program?

• Funding the entire program

• Launching the eradication program

• Developing new cotton varieties

• Providing insecticides

What was a significant outcome of the boll weevil eradication program in the southeastern U.S.?

• Introduction of new cotton varieties

• Complete eradication of the boll weevil

• Decline in cotton production

• Increased use of insecticides

What environmental challenge affected the eradication efforts in South Texas?

• Hurricane winds

• Wildfires

• Excessive rainfall

• Drought conditions

Which state was mentioned as having challenges due to tropical storms and hurricanes?

• Texas

• California

• Florida

• Arizona

How did the collaboration with Mexico contribute to the eradication program?

• It enhanced the successful progression towards a weevil-free status

• It provided additional funding for the program

• It helped in the development of new insecticides

• It led to the introduction of genetically modified cotton

What was the impact of the boll weevil eradication program on insecticide applications?

• Had no impact on applications

• Reduced the number of applications

• Increased the number of applications

• Led to the development of new insecticides

What was a key strategy used in the boll weevil eradication process?

• Use of pheromone traps

• Genetic modification of cotton plants

• Introduction of new cotton varieties

• Increased use of chemical fertilizers

What was the average number of insecticide applications in 2007 compared to before the eradication program?

• 5 compared to 10-15

• 2.78 compared to 15-20

• 10 compared to 20-25

• 15 compared to 30-35