Maximize Organic Pest Control
Organic livestock producers face a unique challenge: controlling pests while protecting animal welfare, worker safety and organic integrity. Jones‑Hamilton supports organic operations with proven solutions that manage pests by focusing on the environment. Our approach focuses on physical control using research-backed mineral technology to help producers reduce pest pressure while staying aligned with organic standards.
How Diatomaceous Earth Controls Pests in Animal Agriculture
DiaFil® 610B is a diatomaceous earth product widely used in animal agriculture for mechanical pest control. Derived from fossilized diatoms, diatomaceous earth works through physical action, not chemical toxicity.
When insects such as beetles, flies, mites and lice come into contact with the product, its microscopic structure:
- Damages the insect’s protective outer layer
- Absorbs surface lipids and moisture
- Leads to dehydration and eventual death
Because this mode of action is mechanical, pests cannot develop resistance, making diatomaceous earth a valuable tool for organic and resistance-management programs.
Understanding the Limitations of Diatomaceous Earth
Like any physical control tool, diatomaceous earth has limitations that must be managed for consistent results:
- Uneven distribution reduces contact with insects
- Dusting and clumping can limit coverage in high-traffic areas
- Moisture can reduce effectiveness over time
- Insects must physically contact the product for control to occur
These factors often determine whether diatomaceous earth performs as intended or underdelivers.
DiaMate®: Designed to Improve Performance in Production Environments
DiaMate™ (technical grade sodium bisulfate) was developed by Jones-Hamilton to help organic producers get more consistent results from diatomaceous earth applications. When used with DiaFil® 610B, DiaMate:
- Improves flowability and spreading ability
- Helps create more uniform coverage across litter, floors and surfaces
- Reduces application variability that can leave untreated gaps
- Enhances overall contact opportunity between pests and product
The result is a more reliable, effective physical pest control program.
Supporting Organic Producers with Practical Solutions
Jones-Hamilton combines mineral science, application insight and field experience to help organic livestock producers build pest control programs that work within real-world production systems.
Healthier environments. Smarter applications. Better outcomes, naturally.