REDUCING THE IMPACT OF THE RED IMPORTED FIRE ANT AT THE 2010, 2011, 2012 AND 2013 TOYOTA TEXAS BASS CLASSIC, CONROE, TX
Extension Education
Michael Heimer
CEA-AG/NR
TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE EXTENSION
Montgomery
Abstract
The presence of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) at any outdoor function can be unpleasant to those participating in the function. The Toyota Texas Bass Classic (TTBC), held in the Lake Conroe area (Conroe, TX) the past few years, is advertised as the world championship of professional bass fishing. The event proceeds benefit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). It has generated over $1.2 million for the TPWD and the state of Texas. Fire ants were an issue during the 2009 TTBC in Montgomery, TX. The organizers of the 2010 TTBC voiced their concern to the property managers of the Lone Star Convention Center, Conroe, TX, (property chosen for the 2010 - 2013 TTBC), and asked that something be done. A management program consisting of twice yearly applications of Extinguish Plus fire ant bait across the grounds where the event was to be held was suggested and implemented. Six weeks after broadcasting the fire ant bait and less than one week before the scheduled Toyota Texas Bass Classic, essentially no foraging activity was seen in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, and less than 1 active fire ant mound per acre was observed in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Resulting data calculated to greater than 94% reduction in foraging activity for the three years and 100% reduction in observable fire ant mounds.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: M. Heimer, P. R. Nester
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Heimer, M. CEA-AG MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE EXTENSION SERVICE, Texas, 77303
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Nester, P. IPM HOUSTON/METRO AREA, TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE EXTENSION SERVICE, Texas, 77084