The Prevention Center enhances biological pest control with 8.7 million organisms
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing agricultural sustainability, the National Center for Plant Pest and Animal Disease Prevention and Control (Wiqa’) has implemented its latest innovative program. Biological pest control a cornerstone of the transition towards clean and safe agriculture. The center has launched a large-scale campaign to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental protection and the development of the agricultural sector.
Developing strategies for protecting agricultural crops
Historically, the global and local agricultural sectors have relied heavily on chemical pesticides to ensure crop yields and control harmful insects. Over time, scientific studies have demonstrated that the excessive use of these chemicals leads to soil degradation, groundwater pollution, and harm to beneficial microorganisms, in addition to their potential negative impacts on human health. Therefore, the urgent need to shift towards environmentally friendly methods has become apparent. The establishment of the "Wiqaa" Center in the Kingdom was an institutional response to these challenges, assuming responsibility for managing plant and animal health according to the highest international standards and relying on natural solutions as a safe and sustainable alternative.
Details of the biological pest control initiative
As part of its ongoing efforts, the technical teams of the "Wiqa" Center implemented six specialized programs within the framework of integrated plant pest management during the period from May 3 to 7. These programs targeted the control of insects that negatively affect the quality of agricultural production in four different regions of the Kingdom. The intensive fieldwork covered 60 farms and 302 agricultural fields, with a total area of 137 hectares.
The role of beneficial organisms and bumblebees
To achieve its biological pest control goals, the center released over 8,759,000 beneficial organisms, distributed across 932 packages and comprising eight different types of microorganisms and beneficial insects. In addition, 154 bumblebee colonies were deployed in targeted areas. These organisms serve as a scientifically based preventative solution, contributing to pest control through natural methods. Furthermore, bees play a vital role in improving agricultural pollination, positively impacting crop yield and quality.
Economic and environmental impact at the local and regional levels
This event holds significant importance that extends far beyond the targeted farms. Locally, adopting these solutions contributes to strengthening the natural ecological balance and reducing the environmental risks associated with traditional agriculture, thus supporting national food security. Regionally, these initiatives position the Kingdom as a leader among countries implementing sustainable agricultural technologies in arid and semi-arid regions. Reducing the use of chemical pesticides increases the export value of Saudi agricultural products and ensures they meet the strictest international health and safety standards, perfectly aligning with the goals of sustainable development and the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Field awareness and support for farmers
Recognizing that the success of any strategy requires community partnership, the center focused on guidance and awareness. Its specialists conducted 54 field visits to farmers in the targeted areas. These visits aimed to provide the necessary technical training on the mechanisms for implementing integrated management programs and to educate farmers on how to manage beneficial organisms to ensure their continued success and effectiveness, thus fostering a new generation of farmers aware of the importance of modern and safe agricultural practices.
