SIR Services

Sterile Insect Production

Each year, the SIR Program produces about 220 million sterile codling moths at its mass rearing facility in Osoyoos, BC.

Sterile Insect Release

Sterile codling moths are released weekly into commercial orchards throughout the service area from May through the end of August. Click here to learn more about the sterile insect release process.

Population Monitoring

SIR Program field staff monitor wild codling moth populations in commercial orchards and in urban areas to identify locations where infestation has, or may, occur.  Data is collected and organized in the Program's GIS.  Results of fruit and codling moth trap monitoring efforts are reported to orchardists and urban tree owners, and may indicate a need for the grower to carry out codling moth control measures. 

Urban Visits

Program staff members meet with urban owners of host trees to provide information, and to help owners understand the steps they can take to keep their trees free of codling moths.  In cases of infestation, or where a property owner is not willing to maintain a tree, removal of trees is often required.

Enforcement

The legislation for the SIR Program puts the onus on growers and owners of host trees to clear their property of destructive pests and prevent infestation.  The legislation also authorizes Program staff to enter onto property to determine compliance and to bring the property into compliance by any means considered necessary.

Education

SIR Program staff members make presentations and set-up kiosks at various events to raise awareness of the codling moth and the Program.