New organic insecticide shields cattle from pesky flies

By Scout Nelson

In the battle against cattle-irritating flies, a breakthrough has emerged from the Nebraska Extension. Dave Boxler, an entomologist, in collaboration with a company, has innovated an organic insecticide derived from palm oil fatty acids. This development is significant as flies not only stress cattle but also reduce their feeding, impacting beef production.

What makes this insecticide stand out is its dual effectiveness and environmental safety. It successfully repels flies, and surprisingly, kills them upon contact. This feature was discovered during field trials where cattle, treated with insecticide, showed a noticeable reduction in fly troubles.

This new solution is particularly valuable for organic beef producers who often struggle with limited and effective fly-control options. It also appeals to conventional producers seeking safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives. The insecticide is harmless to beneficial insects like honeybees and bumblebees, aligning with ecological conservation goals.

There's already a success story linked to this innovation. A horse-specific version, EcoVet, has gained EPA approval and is available nationwide. The focus now shifts to the cattle-specific version, which is pending EPA approval. Boxler's team plans further research to optimize the formula's concentration without compromising its efficacy.

This organic insecticide is a significant advancement in sustainable cattle farming, providing eco-friendly pest control methods for both organic and conventional beef producers, thereby balancing productivity with environmental stewardship, a crucial aspect of the agricultural sector.