Thanks Cranky. That's a really thoughtful post.

Yes, our pesticide use is well controlled and in fact has to fall within the very strict parameters imposed by quality control programs for export into Asia. The orchards are well away from residential areas, and there is almost no point in applying sprays when it's windy -- they don't get to the trees. And the cost is something that has to be taken into account, too. There is no point spraying $100 dollar bills into the wind.

I know agriculture has had a bad rap over things such as DDT and lead, but there is a LOT of testing on fruit done these days here in Australia to ensure the protocols on residues and withholding periods as observed. In addition, some of the insecticides, for instance, are moving to parasitic control using organisms that are harmless to humans, but attack the pest from the inside out.

Plus, farmers have an interest in ensuring that predatory insects remain in orchards, along with bees, which are essential to setting of fruit after blossoming.

It's a dynamic industry, and there is always something to learn.