2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) Our primary objective is to release (redistribute) the melaleuca psyllid, Boreioglycaspis melaleuca, in Dade County, monitor its dispersal and evaluate psyllid impacts on melaleuca populations. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) USDA/ARS/IPRL scientists will develop screenhouse colonies of B. melaleuca, conduct releases, and evaluate psyllid impacts on melaleuca at release sites. Support staff and scientists will mass-rear and field collect psyllids for redistribution to various predetermined locations in Dade County. Post-release evaluations will occur monthly and consist of assessing dispersal rates as well as impacts on the weed's reproductive potential. 3.Progress Report This report serves to document research conducted under a reimbursable agreement between ARS and Dade County Department of Environmental and Resources Management. Additional details of research can be found in the report in the parent project 6629-22000-009-00D, “Development & evaluation of biological control agents for invasive species threatening the Everglades & other natural and managed systems”. Regular monitoring of melaleuca invaded sites showed the presence of Oxyops vitiosa (weevil), Boreioglycaspis melaleucae (psyllid), and Puccinia psidii (rust disease) in different densities among most of the melaleuca invaded sites of Miami-Dade County. During this 2006 reporting period, we released 297,072 individuals of psyllids (melaleuca sap-sucking insects), at 38 locations within melaleuca infested areas of Dade County, where they either were absent or rare. Areas where psyllids and weevils were well established melaleuca tree defoliation and mortality rate was high. The defoliation and mortality of melaleuca in monoculture stands helped open up a canopy, creating space to accommodate other plant species and improving light penetration. This ultimately facilitated the return of many native plant species, once completely dominated by melaleuca monocultures. In order to supplement with additional psyllids or make new releases as needed to establish biological control agents in the area, melaleuca tree growth-stages and biocontrol agent populations were monitored throughout the melaleuca distribution range within Miami-Dade County. The psyllid production, release, and establishment activities are directly monitored by ADODR thru one or two visit (per month) of psyllid production facility and release sites.