PREMISE, a prototype of an empirical model of the epidemiology of apple scab for economic assessment of IPM tools

Abstract: A prototype of an empirical model was made to assess the economic effects of IPM tools used against apple scab (Venturia inaequalis). The model, called PREMISE, is built with three different stages of the scab epidemic. These are the quiescence stage, the primary season and the secondary season. The outcome of one stage influences the next stage. Specific conditions and measures taken by the fruit grower result in indicators of the economic effects of the apple scab management for this farm. As an example, a realistic Dutch situation is described, in which leaf removal and urea application was performed during winter time as an improved IPM situation. On top of that, the very innovative use of antagonists against conidia is described as an advanced IPM situation. The model showed equally good economic results for the improved situation, but the economic impact in the advanced situation was bad. Next step is to validate the economic assessment model with data from different practical situations in different European countries.