The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has announced the approval of an URMULE registration for Malathion 85E insecticide for suppression of spotted wing drosophila (SWD) on caneberries (subgroup 13-07A), bushberries (subgroup 13-07B), small fruit vine climbing (subgroup 13-07F), low-growing berries (subgroup 13-07G) and stone fruit (crop group 12-09) in Canada. Malathion 85E insecticide was already labelled for use on a number of crops in Canada for control of several pests and has been available as an emergency use for SWD for the past few years.

This minor use project was submitted by MAPAQ (Quebec ministry of agriculture) as a result of minor use priorities established by growers and extension personnel. 

The following is provided as an abbreviated, general outline only. Users should be making pest management decisions within a robust integrated disease management program and should consult the complete label before using Malathion 85E insecticide. 

Malathion 85E insecticide is toxic to aquatic organisms, bees, birds and certain beneficial insects and non-target terrestrial plants. DO NOT apply this product to blooming crops or weeds while bees are actively visiting the treatment area. Apply early in the morning or late in the evening when bees are less active. Minimize spray drift to reduce harmful effects on bees in habitats close to the application site. The use of this chemical may result in contamination of groundwater particularly in areas where soils are permeable (for example sandy soil) and/or the depth to the water table is shallow. Do not contaminate aquatic habitats when spraying or when cleaning and rinsing spray equipment or containers.

Follow all precautions and detailed directions for use on the Malathion 85E insecticide label carefully.  

For a copy of the new minor use label, contact your local crop specialist, regional supply outlet or visit the PMRA label site: https://www.canada/en/health-canada/services/consumer-product-safety/pesticides-pest-management/registrants-applicants/tools/pesticide-label-search.html