Monitoring and digitalisation of pest evolution

The PDO Piquillo de Lodosa has started using both manual and automatic traps to monitor pests that may affect crop productivity. Data collected at different sampling points are used to track pest populations and feed the Early Warning Station, a digital warning and advisory platform that allows farms to anticipate pest outbreaks and apply plant protection products before significant economic damage occurs. Traditionally, pest monitoring is carried out by INTIA technicians; however, in this experience, PDO producers themselves have started monitoring some of the traps, increasing the number of observation points.

In parallel, a comparative analysis between manual and automatic traps is being carried out in order to identify the most efficient techniques and assess their scalability in the medium term.

Farm challenges

An insufficiently dense monitoring network does not allow for reliable pest forecasting, significantly reducing the effectiveness of pest management strategies.

Assistance / Boost program

Technical support provided by INTIA.

Innovative features of the initiative / solution

• Involvement of a larger number of people in monitoring activities, increasing the density and coverage of the trap network.
• Combination of manual and automated pest monitoring systems.
• Integration of field data into a shared digital platform.
• Data-driven early warning system supporting preventive decision-making.

Results obtanied

• Earlier detection of pest outbreaks.
• Improved timing and effectiveness of phytosanitary treatments.
• Reduced risk of yield losses and unnecessary pesticide applications.

Lessons learned

The combination of field-level monitoring and digital platforms significantly improves pest management efficiency. Automated systems show strong potential for scaling up when combined with existing manual monitoring networks.