A workshop on the management and control of agricultural pests in organic farms was conducted in the Ministry of Environment and Water Headquarters in Dubai. The workshop is a part of a series of efforts made ​​by the ministry for the development of the organic sector, to raise the quality of organic products, for the development of the local farmers capacity, and as a continuation of the program -launched last year- which aims to develop the skills of farmers in the field of organic production through a series of theoretical and practical training workshops.

        During this workshop, farmers were informed on the environmental and health damage caused by excessive use of pesticides and how to manage pests without resorting to chemical pesticides which are harmful to humans and the environment. The workshop focused on training farmers on how to identify the pest type,  its life cycle, and timing of control, as well as explaining the most important means of modern management and control of agricultural pests, which would contribute to the reduction of random or disorganized use of pesticides that may cause harm to human health and the environment. The means taught in the workshop include the use of organic fertilizers and crop pest-resistant, applying crop diversity in the farm and the suitable agricultural cycle, and the integration of plant and animal production in the farm. In addition, techniques of  solar sterilization were introduced, as well as physiological and bio-control techniques,  and  a training course was conducted for farmers to explain how control methods can be produced within the farm.

    It should be noted that there is a remarkable development in the local organic production in the United Arab Emirates, where the total area for organic agriculture by the end of 2012 has reached about 1000 hectares, around ten million cubic meters of the total agricultural area. Many local organic products are produced such as dates, cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables and fruits that are produced in line with international standards and are available in the markets. UAE organic products can be distinguished since they bare the national logo (organic, عضوي ) that is designed as a special specific trademark for organic products.

    Farmers have expressed great interest in organic farming and the use of natural means to manage and control pests. They also expressed their appreciation and gratitude for the efforts made ​​by the Ministry of Environment and Water for applying the best practices in the field of organic agriculture.