Biological Control & IPM Technical Representative Leamington & Southwestern Ontario
Dario Rivera Lozoya
Dario supports greenhouse growers in Leamington and Southwestern Ontario with integrated pest management and biological control. With 13 years of horticultural experience and a Master of Science in Horticulture, he brings firsthand knowledge of greenhouse production and pest management.
Previously a hydroponic leafy-greens grower at Sensei Ag, Dario developed and led an IPM program that maintained pesticide-free production for years. He draws on this experience to help growers prevent pest outbreaks, select appropriate biological control agents, and integrate them into practical crop management programs.
Expertise
What Dario knows best
Having managed hydroponic greenhouse production himself, Dario approaches pest problems from a grower's perspective. He understands that effective biological control depends on more than selecting the right beneficial insects—it also requires attention to crop conditions, preventative practices, and day-to-day greenhouse management.
His experience includes managing thrips, aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, fungus gnats, shore flies, and powdery mildew. He helps growers understand their options, identify the right biological control agents for their crops, and develop IPM programs that work alongside their existing growing practices.
“It can be challenging, but when the program is properly planned and managed, it works.”
Experience
IPM experience from the grower's side
Before joining GrowLiv, Dario managed hydroponic leafy-greens production at Sensei Ag, where he also developed and led the operation's integrated pest management program. Through careful planning, prevention, and crop management, the operation successfully maintained pesticide-free production for 2.5 years.
Having worked directly with commercial greenhouse crops, Dario understands that successful biological control involves more than introducing beneficial insects. Crop conditions, cultural practices, pest pressure, and day-to-day management all influence the outcome.
This production experience shapes how he supports growers today. Whether addressing an existing pest problem or developing a preventative IPM program, Dario brings practical insight into what it takes to make biological control work in a commercial greenhouse.
Leafy Greens · Tomatoes · Cucumbers· Greenhouse Vegetables
Dario's interest in insects extends beyond greenhouse pest management. His father was a pollinator researcher and beekeeper, inspiring a lasting fascination with honeybees and pollination. Outside of work, Dario enjoys growing leafy greens, swimming, cycling, and practicing yoga.
Education & Training
Ask Dario About