We are working on researching strategies to reduce the population of Cydia Latiferreana, also known as the hazelnut worm, filbert worm or filbert moth in our orchards. This moth is a key pest in the Pacific Northwest and is one of the most economically important insects worldwide. After mating the female moths begin to lay eggs near developing nuts. Eggs hatch in eight to ten days, and the tiny larvae search out the nuts. They burrow into the nut to feed on the kernel for two to four weeks before they bore their way out. These little moths can make or break a harvest and severely impact profits. Traditional management of this pest in commercial orchards relies on chemical sprays.

At the farm we utilize surveillance with filbert worm traps. We are working with the University of Oregon Hallet Lab to research ways to integrate our pigs into the orchards and surrounding oak forests, as the moths also like to use fallen acorns from the oaks as hosts. In addition we work for other farms and help them monitor their filbert worm populations so they can limit spraying and only spray when indicated.