Develop area-wide genetic control technology for suppression of spotted-wing drosophila, a serious pest of berries, cherries, and other thin-skinned fruit

The Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded North Carolina State University a cooperative agreement worth $141,989 on September 30, 2026, to develop area-wide genetic control technology for suppression of spotted-wing drosophila, a serious pest of berries, cherries, and other thin-skinned fruit.

The award funds field cage experiments evaluating repeated releases of sterile male spotted-wing drosophila and gene-drive male flies at various rates to suppress wild-type populations. Deliverables include data on the population-suppression impact of multiple releases and the resulting damage reduction to fresh fruit in field cages. The research will generate evidence to inform new, sustainable control measures for berry and tree fruit growers, federal and state plant protection officials responding to spotted-wing drosophila outbreaks, and agricultural communities seeking to reduce pesticide dependency.

Performance takes place in Raleigh, North Carolina. The period of performance runs from September 30, 2026, through September 29, 2027.

Activities to be performed: the is project will evaluate the ability of repeated releases of sterile male spotted-wing drosophila at various rates to suppress populations of wild-type spotted-wing drosophila in field cages. Deliverables and expected outcomes: data on the impact of multiple releases of genetically sterile male flies and gene-drive male flies on wild-type fly populations. Data on the impact of repeated releases on level of on damage to fresh fruit in field cages. Intended beneficiary(IES): berry and tree fruit growers - developing new, sustainable control measures for spotted-wing drosophila will help provide long-term management options. Federal, state and county program officials charged with control of spotted-wing drosophila outbreaks in fruit production regions of the united states. Farm workers and the general public who will receive the environmental benefits of working and living in agricultural environments with less pesticide usage.