Help with bean beetles

DougMcLean@aol.com
Sun, 10 Jul 94 16:52:33 EDT

Hello. I am writing from a small organic farm in New Mexico. Mexican bean
beetles have invaded our pinto, anasazi and mitla beans, stripped about 1/3
of the leaves, and laid eggs. We need to decide quickly what action to take.

Specifically, we need to understand the life cycle of the bean beetle in
detail that goes beyond any of our (or the extension agent's) reference
books, and we need information on the use and effectiveness of the parasitic
wasp, Pedobius foveolatus. (The nearest reference library is 4 hours away.)

We would also like help figuring out a course of action. Someone who has had
practical experience with the beetle or the wasp would be invaluable. As far
as we know, no one in the area is growing beans organically, so there is no
local experience to draw on.

Is there anyone in this mailing group who can help, knows of someone who can,
or knows of resources we can reference? If so, please reply and I will post
the details of the situation.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Doug McLean
for the Agricultural Project of The School
Reserve, New Mexico