In the latest of our country profiles, Ilma Rimkeviciene, from the PI Lithuanian Agricultural Advisory Service, introduces us to the integrated plant protection information, consulting and training information service the country has introduced as part of its drive towards more sustainable agriculture.
Although pesticides are recognised as very dangerous substances, especially in that they directly affect humans causing health problems and nature causing various changes, their use in Lithuania had been increasing, writes Ilma. In 2011, 2,704.9 tonnes of plant protection products were placed on the national market and in 2017 this figure was 3,056.4 tonnes. The use of growth regulators (x3.2), fungicides (x1.4) and insecticides (x1.3) in 2017 increased most, compared to 2011 (see table below).
Table: Plant protection products placed on market 2012–2017
2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | |
Total plant protection products, tonnes (100% active substance) | 2,712.7 | 2,664.5 | 2,703.8 | 2,788.5 | 3,385.1 | 3,056.4 |
Fungicides | 488.9 | 540.9 | 604.9 | 739.3 | 741.2 | 690.1 |
Herbicides | 1,715.2 | 1,421.9 | 1,394.2 | 1,371.5 | 1,432.7 | 1,251.5 |
Insecticides | 42.3 | 39.9 | 43.6 | 30.7 | 45.3 | 53.8 |
Growth regulators | 313.5 | 513.0 | 502.9 | 599.5 | 1,116.9 | 998.0 |
Source: Statistics Lithuania, 2018. Agriculture. Agri-environment. Plant protection products placed on market. Access via Internet: https://osp.stat.gov.lt/statistiniu-rodikliu-analize#/
The largest areas treated with plant protection products in Lithuania are those used for growing winter and spring wheat, spring barley, and winter and spring rapeseed. Although the use of plant protection products in the country has been increasing, the consumption of these products per hectare of arable land in Lithuania is significantly lower than the EU-28 average (2.1 times in 2016).
PI Lithuanian Agricultural Advisory Service (known as LAAS) offers an integrated plant protection information, consulting and training information system called IKMIS, which presents electronic services for farmers and is designed to foster more sustainable and 'green' farming. Some of IKMIS's key features are as follows:
The electronic services delivered through the system that are available at www.ikmis.lt or via Lithuania's e-Government Gateway or via the portal designed for farmers.
System versatility
IKMIS information and services are available to anybody who is interested after registration. No specific software is required to use the electronic services provided via IKMIS as it functions fully as a web page accessible via conventional Internet browsers. All services provided are available via secured connections to the system.
Dynamics of disease, pest and weed spread
Every week the system is provided with updated information entered by regional plant production advisers who observe crops during plant vegetation periods according to methodology prepared by researchers. The forecasts of harmful organisms are based on meteorological data and data received from certain modules of computerised mathematical calculations. For this purpose meteorological stations (metpoles) have been purchased, which calculate and provide IKMIS with a forecast of the spread of certain diseases and pests. Users of the electronic services provided via IKMIS can order information on the spread of diseases, pests and weeds during plant vegetation seasons. The information can be received via e-mail or SMS messages.
Catalogues for Plant Protection Products, diseases, pests and weeds
The information system publishes and makes easily accessible catalogues for plant protection products, diseases, pests and weeds in order to facilitate the recognition of a disease or a pest and easier selection of plant protection products registered in Lithuania as the most efficient remedy.
Integrated Plant Protection
There is also an option of interactive consulting with LAAS specialists and district advisers regarding the application of integrated plant protection.
Remote education and accreditation
Another important application domain of the system is the training of farmers and agricultural advisers by internet, their accreditation and the issuing of certificates. The information system provides the possibility of increasing knowledge according to eight main curricula. Those wishing to participate in training sessions can choose their mode of training: classroom training, direct broadcasts, reviews of electronic training videos or real-time electronic training.
For more information:
Last update: 24/05/2023 - ENDURE © 2009 - Contact ENDURE - Disclaimer