September 14, 2001

Dear colleagues,

            You probably know by now that the Biocontrol Network was finally funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), following previous attempts with the Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) programme in 1998 and 1999. NSERC funding of research Networks is about one third of that provided by NCE. This means that we had to reduce the scope of our research programme and limit the number of investigators in order to succeed and secure a meaningful level of funding per Network scientist. The current funding will allow us to study and develop biological products and methods to effectively manage insect pests and diseases in greenhouses and tree nurseries as well as design innovative tools for future advances in biocontrol.

            The funding of the Network is good news for biocontrol in Canada. This achievement is the result of several years of effort by many members of our community, biocontrol scientists and supporters. While it is unfortunate that only a limited number of scientists could be directly associated with the current Network research program, this is only the beginning of what will be a long and successful story. With the support of NSERC and the initial group of Network investigators and stakeholders, we can now start working, as a well-organised group, on several exciting research and development projects, thus establishing a new Canadian model in biologically-based pest management.  In time, and with additional resources and support, we intend to build on our successes in the greenhouse and nursery sectors by expanding our activities to other areas of agriculture and forestry.

            The investigators, collaborators and leaders of the Biocontrol Network are determined to use this unique opportunity to bring together all Canadians who, one way or another, share their vision of a world with less chemical pesticides and more sustainable resources. A significant effort will be made by the Network in the near future to find ways of establishing efficient links with all concerned.

            The first meeting of the Network will take place in Niagara Falls, Ontario, on October 19 and 20, 2001 in the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel (see contact information below) prior to, and at the same location as the Entomological Society of Canada 2001 meeting. You are invited to attend the public sessions (please contact the Network for the agenda) in person or to send a representative. One of the priorities will be to discuss the various mechanisms that could be implemented to allow those who are not currently part of the Network to participate in, and contribute to the Network’s activities.

            Please rest assured that the Biocontrol Network is an open organisation whose success will largely depend on the constructive interactions it will nurture with the rest of the biocontrol community. There will be many opportunities in the future requiring the Network, its partners and affiliates to play a leadership role in Canada and abroad in the area of biological pest control.

            Your feedback will be welcome. Do not hesitate to contact us for additional information. In the meantime, feel free to forward this message to anyone who may be interested in the Biocontrol Network.

            Sincerely,

            Jean-Louis Schwartz and Raynald Laprade, Network Leaders

First meeting of the Biocontrol Network (Oct. 19-20, 2001):

Sheraton Fallsview Hotel and Conference Centre

6755 Oakes Drive

Niagara Falls,  Ontario  L2G 3W7

Tel.: (905) 374-1077 ;  Toll Free: (800) 267-8439

Fax: (905) 374-6224

website:  www.fallsview.com

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