SIR Benefits

Since the SIR Program began, there has been a significant reduction in the number of codling moths, the level of codling moth damage, and the amount of organophosphate pesticides used. Consider the full range of benefits:

Reduction in Pesticide Risk

Data from BC's Ministry of Environment show that the volume of organophosphate pesticides sold since the Program began has fallen substantially.  In 2008, sales of organophosphates in the Program service area were down 93% from the 1991 level.  This reduction accounts for 44,000 fewer kilograms of organophosphates being purchased in 2008 compared to 1991.

Good Urban-Rural Relations

Thousands of new residents move to the Southern Interior every year to enjoy its quality of life.  More people than ever before are living close to commercial orchard operations.  Growers' use of sterile insect technology, and reduced use of organophosphate pesticides, help allay fears neighbouring residents may have about chemical pesticides.

Positive Impact on Tourism

The rows of apple, pear and other fruit trees on the Southern Interior's sloping hillsides add to the region's beauty and help to draw tourists to the area.  The appeal of the area is further enhanced by the minimal use of chemicals in the orchards and the high quality clean fruit produced.

Market Opportunities

The success of the Program has positioned the BC tree fruit industry to expand into markets that favour growers from areas of "low pest prevalence" and low reliance on chemical pesticides.

Advancement in Science

The Program contributes to the reputation of the Southern Interior as a centre of excellence in horticultural research and innovation.  Each year, international scientists pay to attend an SIR training program to learn the principles and procedures of an area-wide pest management program using sterile insect technology.  Information from the SIR Program is now being applied in places such as the US, Argentina, Chile, Brazil, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, and Pakistan.