This paper discusses the climatic conditions and insect pest management in active boll weevil eradication zones in Texas during 1998. Drought conditions existed in each of the three boll weevil eradication zones which affected insect management. Results of a survey of private consultants in the South Texas-Winter Garden zone which reflect the impact of the eradication efforts on management of insect pests in that zone are presented.

Weather conditions, especially rainfall and temperatures, set the stage for both crop conditions and insect management. Multiple applications of most insecticides inside or outside eradication zones reduce natural enemies and increase the risks of secondary pests. It is generally agreed by pest managers that ULV malathion used area wide in eradication programs reduces natural enemies more than alternative insecticides used by growers on a field by field basis. This tends to result in more secondary pest problems and alters management for other pests. However, eliminating the boll weevil as a key pest generally allows other pests to be managed much more easily and effectively using good IPM strategies.