BIOLOGICALLY INTEGRATED FARMING SYSTEMS
The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) Office of Pesticide Consultation and Analysis (OPCA) is now accepting applications for the Biologically Integrated Farming Systems (BIFS) Program.
The focus of this RFP is to help growers transition away from non-selective, biologically disruptive pesticides, especially those of high regulatory concern. The BIFS program supports the demonstration, refinement, and outreach of biologically integrated farming systems that are economically viable and protective of human health and the environment. All aspects of the farming system may be considered as they relate to pest management, including factors such as adjacent landscapes.
Proposals should advance the goals of California's Sustainable Pest Management (SPM) Roadmap, including efforts to 1) enhance knowledge, research, and technical assistance; 2) align pest control advisors (PCAs) with SPM; and 3) reduce economic risk for growers transitioning to SPM.
Priority Topics
- Areawide pest management
- Monitoring systems that improve pest management decision-making
- Post-harvest disease control
- Neonicotinoid alternatives in tomato production
- Paraquat alternatives
Required Project Elements
BIFS projects are expected to include all of the following:
- On-farm demonstration and evaluation of an innovative, biologically based farming system that incorporates Systems-Based Pest Management (SPM) strategies;
- Collaborative outreach and education to share project findings with growers, Pest Control Advisors (PCAs), commodity groups, and other stakeholders involved in pest management; and
- Monitoring and evaluation activities that track key biological and economic indicators to support on-farm decision-making and assess project outcomes.
Funding Details
- Concept proposal due date: June 30, 2026
- Maximum award: $1 million
- Project duration: 4 years
- Matching funds are encouraged from industry and stakeholder partners.
For more information please read the BIFS RFP.