• Focus on control methods which do not pose risk of insecticide resistance or cross-resistance nor have documented evidence of insecticide resistancy.
   

• Use methods which are value-added, such as feed-through insecticide mineral products. This type of product serves two functions, provides needed minerals to grazing cattle and decreases horn fly numbers.
   

• The best horn fly control products, from an insecticide resistancy stand point, are those which prevent horn fly pupae from developing into adults.
   

• If a feed-through insecticide program is chosen, ensure the product is palatable and will be consumed daily at recommended levels.
   

• Selecting a free-choice mineral formulation containing an effective, feed-through insecticide will eliminate the need to gather cattle for periodic treatment. This method will minimize time and labor needed for effective horn fly control which allows the producer to concentrate on other activities.
   

• Choose an insecticide which is safe for animals, humans, and the environment.
   

• Choose a program which leaves no harmful residue in meat or milk, when used as directed.
   

• Choose programs based on research results and cattle producers’ evaluations of the program.

Considerations for Choosing an Insect Growth Regulator

For an insect growth regulator to be effective, three conditions must be met:

1. The product must contain a sufficient level of active ingredient. The manufacturing process must be capable of incorporating the formulated amount of methoprene into the product without loss in the material handling and dust collection systems.

2. The active ingredient must maintain effectiveness in the product formulation. This requires an understanding of the active ingredient’s mode of action and its interactions with other components in the product.

3. The proper amount of the product must be consumed at regular intervals over the range of grazing conditions that can occur during the horn fly season.