Learning to manage emerging and invasive pests together: On-farm trials with growers

The emergence of invasive pests presents urgent challenges for agricultural production, particularly when growers and extension professionals have limited prior experience with the species. Building collaborative relationships during such crises is essential for effective pest management. This case study highlights the collaborative efforts between University of Florida research and extension faculty and commercial pepper growers in Palm Beach County, Florida, following the first detection of Thrips parvispinus, an invasive thrips species, in commercial pepper fields. With no established management recommendation and limited awareness among growers, there was a need for rapid, science-based responses and strong communication channels. On-farm trials were initiated to monitor pest populations, evaluate control strategies, and share findings in real time with the grower community. These trials served not only as a research platform but also as a foundation for building trust, fostering mutual learning, and strengthening the relationship between growers, crop consultants, and extension personnel. The experience demonstrated that on-farm collaboration during a crisis can accelerate knowledge exchange, improve pest management outcomes, and lay the groundwork for future cooperative efforts. This case study also emphasizes the importance of communication, collaboration, and shared learning in managing emerging agricultural threats.