A tiny parasitic wasp injects an egg into an aphid 

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a practice that many permaculturists will be familiar with, even if we don’t use that term – using a diversity of methods to control pests that avoid or minimise the use of toxic chemicals.

This month's speaker, Dr Robert McDougall, will look at IPM techniques that work in permaculture. He discuss why these practices aren’t more widespread outside our small community, and how to change that.

Robert is a researcher with Western Sydney University currently investigating threats to native stingless bees, with a view to helping the developing stingless bee pollination industry replace what is being lost as varroa mite decimates honeybee populations. His background is in researching beneficial insects in agriculture, with a focus on organisms that can provide biological pest control services, and thus minimising the need for pesticides. His PhD examined the productivity and ecology of small urban food gardens. Robert studied permaculture at Zaytuna Farm under Geoff Lawton.

Doors open at 6.30pm. Come early to help set up, browse the library or find a treasure on the Reuse and Recycle table.

Stick around for a cuppa and a chat after the main event. Supper will be provided by the Hornsby group this month.

Please register so we know how many to expect.