The PIPS3 Program

The PIPS3 Program

The third integrated Productivity, Irrigation, Pests and Soils Program (PIPS3 Program) for the apple and pear industry is being undertaken from July 2020 to July 2023 to build upon the outcomes of PIPS1 (2009-2014) and PIPS2 (2015-2020).

Leading researchers from Agriculture Victoria and the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture are addressing key knowledge gaps and advancing industry understanding of potential sustainable orchard systems of the future through a collaborative research, development and extension approach.

The objective of the PIPS3 Program is to provide the Apple and Pear industry with tools and knowledge to develop sustainable orchard systems of the future that:

• use resources efficiently and sustainably;
• focus on cultural and biological management solutions (reducing pesticide dependence);and
• drive quality through access to better information and new technologies along the supply chain.

Orchards of the future will ensure industry meets consumer expectations and is better prepared for variable climatic growing conditions by using more sustainable production practices.