IPM News and Events Roundup 01/24/2025
A weekly collection of IPM news, webinars, employment, funding opportunities, and more from the Northeastern IPM Center
If you have IPM-related research, events, or other IPM news you would like to have included, please email Jerrie Haines at jlh472@cornell.edu. If you would like to subscribe to the weekly Roundup, please email northeastipm@cornell.edu. Past Roundups are archived on our website.
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Northeastern IPM Center News
Corn Earworm Integrated Pest Management Updates for Sweet Corn
February 11, 2025, 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Register at: cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xclHNRj1S3qMKao7bMi-KA
Description
Corn earworm currently is one of the most challenging ear feeding insect pests to manage in sweet corn and a regional team has formed to help develop IPM solutions (more information at CEWIPM.org). This webinar will include two update talks. The first will discuss effectively using baited traps for monitoring adult moths and the second will discuss the benefits of using these traps for managing corn earworm in a Virginia case study.
Presentations
Effective monitoring strategies for corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) management in sweet corn
John Mahas, Christophe Duplais, David Owens, Kelly Hamby, Galen Dively, Anders Huseth, Thomas Kuhar, Helene Doughtry, Brian Currin, and Brian Nault
Evaluating an IPM approach in sweet corn in Virginia
Tom Kuhar and Brian Currin
Presenters
John Mahas
John Mahas is a postdoctoral research associate in Dr. Brian Nault’s vegetable entomology lab at Cornell AgriTech. He earned his B.S. in Biology from the College of Coastal Georgia and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Entomology from Auburn University. His research focuses on developing sustainable crop pest management strategies, with expertise in vector-borne plant pathogens, GIS applications, and crop pest ecology. At Cornell, his work centers on improving management practices for corn earworm in sweet corn through improving pest monitoring, ecological studies, and evaluating management tools.
Tom Kuhar
Tom Kuhar is a Professor in the Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech where his research focuses on the integrated pest management of pests of vegetable crops including sweet corn. He has trained over 40 graduate students and has published ~ 160 peer-reviewed papers and 6 book chapters on insect pest management in agricultural crops. A native of Baltimore, MD, he received his B.S. degree in biology from Towson University, Towson, MD, in 1992 and his Master’s (1996) and Ph.D. (2000) degrees in entomology from Virginia Tech.
Brian Currin
Brian Currin is a graduate student at Virginia Tech working on sweet corn IPM. He received his BS in Biology from Radford University.
Project Director
Kelly Hamby
Kelly Hamby is an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland. Her research and extension program addresses invasive and emerging insect pest issues, evaluating and optimizing pest management programs, and development of sustainable alternative management tactics, primarily in Mid Atlantic small fruit, sweet corn, and grain crop systems. She received her B.S. in Environmental Toxicology, M.S. in Entomology, and Ph.D. in Entomology at the University of California Davis.
Building the Backbone of IPM: PMSPs, Crop Profiles, and the National IPM Database
February 13, 2025 – 11:00 a.m. (eastern)
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-vprPJ4VSiaNMBy4DPlOXQ#/registration
Description
Effective integrated pest management (IPM) starts with comprehensive, well-structured data. In this presentation, Lacey Belanger will detail the creation and coordination of Pest Management Strategic Plans (PMSPs) and Crop Profiles, alongside the development of the National IPM Database. Guest speakers will share their real-world experience of developing PMSPs and the advantages that have come from them. Attendees will learn about the critical role these resources play in informing pest management decisions, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Join us to see how these documents enhance IPM efforts nationwide and ensure the tools needed for success are at your fingertips.
Lacey Belanger
Research Assistant, Southern IPM Center
Lacey works with stakeholders to create new and updated Crop Profiles and Pest Management Strategic Plans for the National IPM Database. She holds a B.A. in Biological Sciences with a concentration in business communications from North Carolina State University.
Lorena Lopez
Dr. Lorena Lopez recently completed a strawberry PMSP in the southern region. She specializes in integrated pest management for small fruits and tobacco, and focuses on developing sustainable pest control strategies. Dr. Lorena Lopez’s program centers on the sustainable management of pests affecting small fruits and tobacco through IPM practices. Her extension work involves translating complex scientific findings into practical applications for growers and extension agents, focusing on reducing pesticide reliance and enhancing crop health and productivity.
Hannah Penn
Research Entomologist, USDA-ARS Sugarcane Research
Dr. Penn recently completed a sugarcane PMSP in the south.
Risk Forecasting and Evaluation Using the NEWA Platform
February 18, 2025 – 11:00 a.m. (eastern)
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_G3y1vDpjS7W7nAw74QUw-Q#/registration
Description
The NEWA platform provides practical tools for weather-based risk forecasting, helping users make informed decisions about pest and crop management. This talk will cover how NEWA combines high-resolution weather data, predictive models, and user-friendly tools to assess risks like freeze events, disease outbreaks, and crop loss. We’ll discuss how these features support monitoring and forecasting of microclimate-driven risks to aid in planning and management.
Dan Olmstead
Dan Olmstead is the project lead of the Network for Environment and Weather Applications (NEWA; newa.cornell.edu) at New York State Integrated Pest Management. With an MSc in entomology from Cornell University and expertise in decision support systems, digital outreach, and environmental data science, Dan focuses on connecting growers, researchers, and stakeholders with actionable microclimate data. By leveraging over 1,000 public and private weather stations, NEWA delivers accessible tools that enable informed pest and weather risk management across New York State and beyond.
Glen Koehler
Associate Scientist, IPM, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Glen’s areas of responsibility include integrated pest management of tree fruits (primarily apple) and weather-based predictive crop, pest timing and severity models. He contributes to the Northeastern IPM Center and the Maine Climate Council Scientific and Technical Subcommittee.
EPA / FDA / USDA / NIFA News
Centipedegrass Provides Food For Our Pollinators
Centipedegrass is a popular lawn grass in the southeastern U.S., mainly due to its excellent heat tolerance and low maintenance requirements. As an added benefit, researchers at ARS’s Crop Genetics and Breeding Research Unit in Tifton, GA, in collaboration with the University of Georgia, discovered that bees and hoverflies were collecting pollen from centipedegrass flower heads. This is important because pollinator populations – which pollinate up to 90% of the world’s food crops – have been in decline worldwide for several decades. Turfgrass lawns are frequently cited as contributing to this decline. From this discovery, homeowners and landscape managers are recommended to stop or reduce insecticide use to maintain essential pollinator populations, as certain insecticides are toxic to foraging bees in lawns.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will begin to accept and process notifications for the introduction of certain modified plants that meet the regulatory definition of “regulated article” under 7 CFR 340 (2019) on February 7, 2025. We are restarting the notification procedure following a December 2, 2024, ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California vacating the May 2020 final rule (7 CFR part 340) for organisms developed using genetic engineering.
Notifications are a streamlined alternative to permits for regulated articles meeting specified eligibility criteria and pre-defined performance standards under 7 CFR § 340.3. Beginning February 7, 2025, you may submit notifications electronically through APHIS eFile. For information on plants that are eligible for the notification process and how to apply, please visit our Notification guide. To apply for a notification, you must provide information that demonstrates your introduction meets the performance standards under 7 CFR § 340.3. If you are interested in seeking feedback on the procedures you will use to demonstrate compliance with the performance standards in advance of February 7, 2025, please submit them to BRSPermits@usda.gov.
Please know that if an organism does not meet the regulatory definition of “regulated article,” it is not subject to APHIS’ biotechnology regulations (i.e., such organisms do not require a permit or notification prior to introduction). For example, a genome edited organism (e.g., plant, microbe, insect) that is not a plant pest or likely to be a plant pest is not subject to 7 CFR part 340 (2019), unless the organism retains DNA sourced from a plant pest. Similarly, a transgenic organism that is not a plant pest and not likely to be a plant pest, and does not contain DNA sourced from a plant pest is not subject to 7 CFR part 340 (2019). Developers may voluntarily seek a letter confirming that an organism is not subject to regulation by submitting an Am I Regulated inquiry.
Research in the news
Assessing the potential economic impacts of spotted lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) infestations on grape production in New York State (academic.oup.com)
Lycorma delicatula, known as the spotted lanternfly, an insect native to Asia, feeds on a broad range of plant species in the United States, including tree of heaven, black walnut, silver and red maple, and grapes. As of early 2024, grape growers in New York State have not reported spotted lanternfly-related issues. In contrast, growers in Pennsylvania experienced significant losses during the early years of infestation, with some vineyards replanting due to vine death caused by spotted lanternfly. Over time, Pennsylvania growers developed management strategies, but the threat remains significant. We hypothesize that New York grape growers, informed by the economic impacts faced by Pennsylvania growers, will adopt a risk-averse approach and will be better prepared to combat spotted lanternfly. This manuscript examines spotted lanternfly biology, life stages, and host plants while estimating potential economic impacts to inform growers, stakeholders, and policymakers about the potential economic losses in New York grape production. If left uncontrolled or if growers are uninformed and unprepared, economic losses in the Lake Erie and Finger Lakes regions could escalate significantly, reaching up to $1.5, $4, and $8.8 million in the first, second, and third years of infestation, respectively. These figures underscore the critical importance of proactive management and preparedness measures to mitigate the impact of spotted lanternfly infestations on agricultural economies. We also discuss the implication of these findings in management and regulatory efforts. Future research should focus on establishing the appropriate economic thresholds and conducting cost–benefit analyses of various pest control measures in grape production in New York.
Bringing soybean research to light (soybeanscienceforsucces.org)
Science for Success brings together 20+ land grant institutions to collaboratively deliver research-based soybean best management practices into the hands of US farmers.
A key to protecting apples from climate change might be hiding in Michigan’s forests (apnews.com)
In the quest to make apple trees more resilient in a warming climate, some Michigan researchers are looking for a late bloomer.
A native Michigan apple tree, the Malus coronaria, learned to fight frost by blooming two or three weeks later than the trees that produce cultivated varieties of apples like Honeycrisp or Red Delicious.
Invasive Species From Asia Found In New York State On Christmas (hudsonvalleypost.com)
Authorities are confirming an investigation after someone was caught bringing a large amount of an invasive species to New York.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) released its latest "Environmental Conservation Police on Patrol" report.
This report highlights action taken by the DEC over the final few months of 2024 and some of January of 2025.
Pest Talks (growertalks.com)
What the ... ?
SLF Found in GA
IR-4 Grower Survey
Young Grower & Retailer Awards
Managing Root Insects
Robotics in Agriculture Gets an Assist from USDA-ARS
Agriculture is poised to benefit greatly from the rising revolution of robotics and artificial intelligence – if we can actually get those tools into the hands of farmers.
That’s a big if, but USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and land-grant scientists are well positioned to make it a reality, says Dr. Steven Mirsky, a USDA-ARS research ecologist, as well as co-founder of the GROW and Precision Sustainable Agriculture (PSA) networks.
The key is to build large, open-source image recognition pipelines that train machines and computers to rapidly identify and target individual plants and pests, Mirsky says. While these types of resources exist behind the walls of private industry right now, Mirsky and his research teams are working to make them more widely and publicly available, with projects such as the Ag Image Repository and PlantMap3D.
Surveys
The Environmental Horticulture Program’s research priorities are driven by stakeholder input. There are multiple ways to tell us about your pest management needs. First, the biennial Grower and Extension Survey (below) gathers input on key pest challenges growers are facing around the country. The survey responses also help IR-4 understand regional needs. If you are experiencing (or observing) pest management challenges on ornamentals and lack the proper tools to mitigate them, the survey (linked below) is a great place to start.
If you have a product in mind to potentially manage a pest issue on a particular crop, please complete the Project Request form (below).
Or, if you’d like to connect directly with the IR-4 team to discuss your crop protection needs, we encourage you to contact your Regional Field Coordinator (RFC).
The Grower & Extension Survey is the best way to tell us which pest problems you have difficulty managing due to insufficient tools. Your input helps shape discussions at the biennial Environmental Horticulture Workshop, and helps our team understand the needs of growers in this vital sector. As of fall 2024, we have transitioned the survey to a Google form. You may fill out and submit the form here.
The deadline for submitting a survey for 2026/2027 research is August 29, 2025. Thank you for your input!
Why are we doing this research study? We are interested in understanding the information that ecological professionals use to judge the risk a plant species may pose to an environment. We hope that this will inform the development of accurate and efficient methods of assessing species risk.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst are looking for adult participants in a study about the information that ecological professionals use to judge the risk a non-native plant species may pose to an environment. This study seeks professional experience around risk assessment of non-native plant species in the United States.
What Is Required?
Eligible participants will conduct a short online questionnaire, estimated to take approximately 20 minutes to complete.
You May Qualify If You:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have professional experience with assessing non-native plant risk in the United States
Survey Link:
Call for Abstracts & Exhibits
SLELO PRISM is inviting abstracts for presentations and requests for exhibits to be held at our Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium on June 12th, 2025, at SUNY Oswego’s Sheldon Ballroom in Oswego, NY.
The Symposium provides an opportunity to share your expertise, connect with field professionals, and expand your knowledge of invasive species management. This is a free event that is well attended attracting invasive species management and conservation professionals from state and non-state agencies as well as the public.
This year’s theme is Adaptive Approaches for Terrestrial and Aquatic Invasive Species Management, with a focus on Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), Climate Change, and Restoring Biodiversity. Submission categories include a 20-minute presentation, a lightning round presentation, an exhibit, or poster.
The deadline for submission is 11:59 PM on Sunday, February 23rd, 2025. Early submissions are highly encouraged, as reviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.
National Invasive Species Awareness Week
Enhancing North American Biosecurity to Protect Against Invasive Species
NISAW is led by The North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) which supports local, state, tribal, federal, regional, and national organizations.
Educational Invasive Species Webinars
NAISMA hosts educational webinars on priority invasive species issues the week of NISAW. Speakers and topics will include:
- US Geological Survey
- US Army Corps of Engineers
- Environmental Protection Agency
- OH-SMART/One Health
- VIDA Intergovernmental Response Framework
- USDA APHIS
Congressional Briefings
Individual Meetings
Local Events and Awareness Weeks or Months
Outreach and Communications
Social Media
NISAW Toolkit
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) news and updates
Newly featured this issue
99,000 ducks to be euthanized after bird flu outbreak at New York farm (nbcnews.com)
After a Long Island farm was forced to euthanize 99,000 birds due to a bird flu outbreak, the impact of the virus continues to grow nationwide. More than 130 million birds have been infected across all 50 states. Dr. Kavita Patel reports on what this means for public health, the risks of the virus spreading to domestic animals, including dairy cows, and the potential for human-to-human transmission.
Previously featured
Keeping Our Farms Safe
Protecting Against H5N1
H5N1 Resource Website for Extension
The purpose of this website is to provide Cooperative Extension professionals with resources made available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other partners regarding H5N1 and human health.
- H5N1 Current Information
- Cooperative Extension Resources
- Media and Print Resources
- Supporting Websites for General Information
- UDSA Action and Regulations
- Worker Protection
- On-Farm Biosecurity Recommendations and Training
- Food Safety
Webinars, seminars, meetings, and more
If you want to view paradise: the USDA apple, grape, and tart cherry collections
Ben Gutierrez, USDA-ARS
Horticulture Section
Monday, January 27, 12:20 – 1:10 pm, 404 Plant Science & by Zoom
TBA: speaker works on gene editing for disease resistance
Aafreen Sakina, PPPMB
Plant Pathology & Plant-Microbe Biology Section – AgriTech
Tuesday, January 28, 11:15 am – 12:05 pm, A134 Barton Lab & Zoom Passcode: Seminar
Plant-plant communication in crops: sensing and effects on plant growth
Shiran Ben-Zeev, Penn State University
Plant Breeding & Genetics Section
Tuesday, January 28, 12:20 – 1:10 pm, 135 Emerson & by Zoom
The world of viruses and its evolution
Eugene Koonin, National Institutes of Health
Plant Pathology & Plant-Microbe Biology
Wednesday, January 29, 12:20 – 1:10 pm, 404 Plant Science & by Zoom
2025 Mass Aggies Seminar Series
Mass Aggies, a series highlighting the agricultural expertise and innovation available through the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Extension Fruit team. Through this series of seminars and workshops the Fruit Team provides a platform for small scale backyard growers and agricultural enthusiasts of all types to come together to learn the latest developments in fruit production. Delve into the cutting-edge information shared in our seminars, curated to empower individuals with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture.
Register online (link is external)
Online registration will close the Friday prior to each event.
Insects; Pests and Beneficials
Dr. Jaime Piñero
Join Extension Faculty Dr. Jaime Piñero in this exciting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) workshop and learn how to make beneficial insects and insectary plants your garden’s best allies! Discover eco-friendly pest control tips that blend nature’s own predators with smart gardening strategies, including cultural controls like trap cropping. With these techniques, you can keep your plants thriving with little to no insecticides. Perfect for homeowners and orchard enthusiasts, this fun, hands-on session will show you how to create a healthy, vibrant garden and keep pests at bay—naturally! Some materials will be mailed to participants for them to implement IPM at home!
February 15, 2025
10am – noon
Zoonoses in a Changing World (Live 2.19.25)
Summary: For centuries, zoonotic diseases have impacted humans in many ways. This presentation will focus on vector-borne pathogens by discussing the vectors and trends with geographic distribution, temperature effects, and habitat management since the late 1890’s through today and potential future impacts. We are seeing in real time, the expansion of geographic range of certain tick and mosquito species. Between climate changes and globalized travel, the etiology of spread is sometimes clear but can also be difficult to diagnose. As the world has changed and continues to change, zoonotic diseases remain impactful.
Objectives: At the end of the webinar, participants will be able to...
- Identify historical trends and issues with vector-borne and other zoonotic diseases.
- Summarize One Health concepts and applications to zoonotic pathogens.
- Identify issues and solutions for vector-borne disease prevention in underserved populations.
Live Web Event on 02/19/2025 at 12:00 PM (CST)
Registration for the 2025 Invasive Species Forum is open and spots are filling up fast. By registering, you'll make sure that you get a virtual front-row seat for the more than 50 presentations being delivered by invasive species experts from Canada, the United States, and beyond.
The Invasive Species Forum is an annual event that brings attention to invasive species issues, research, and advances in prevention and management occurring across Canada, in neighboring U.S. States, and more broadly.
Previously featured
2025 CCE Winter Cut Flower Webinar Series
Tuesdays, 1/28, 2/4/2025
All sessions are provided via Zoom. Advanced registration is required to obtain the Zoom links.
Webinars will be recorded, and all the recordings will be sent to registrants for future review.
Session 4: 1/28/2025
9:00 AM The challenges of lisianthus commercial cultivation in Taiwan
10:00 AM Wildcrafting and Ethical Use of Invasive Plants, Vines, and Shrubs
11:00 AM Growing cut flowers in containers
Session 5: 2/4/2025
1:00 PM Cut out cut flower diseases!*
2:00 PM Bad bugs bothering blooms*
* NYSDEC pesticide application credits will be provided.
Cost: $20 per session and $60 for all five sessions
Registration link: https://pub.cce.cornell.edu/event_registration/main/events_landing.cfm?event=2025CutFlowerWebinarSeries_201
If you need assistance with registration, please call 518-765-3518 or email cce-caahp@cornell.edu.
Tristate Greenhouse IPM Online Workshop 2025
Description: Annual greenhouse and high tunnel pest management workshop for growers across ME, NH, and VT.
Course Dates: This is a two-part workshop: Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM EST and Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM EST.
Group Registration (IMPORTANT): You will also have the ability during this registration process to register multiple individuals. If registering as a "group," please provide the complete contact information for EACH attendee to ensure pesticide applicator re-certification credits are awarded!
Price: $50 per person and covers attendance at one or both sessions.
Payment Terms: All payments are final. No refunds will be issued.
The highly anticipated 2025 Vegetable Expo is set to take place on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Jordan Hall in Geneva, NY. This full-day event will feature a dynamic lineup of industry experts, researchers, and farmers sharing the latest innovations and strategies in vegetable production, sustainability, and pest management. Registration is now open for you to secure your spot here: https://nysvga.org/expo/information/.
Corn Earworm Integrated Pest Management Updates for Sweet Corn
February 11, 2025, 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Register at: cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xclHNRj1S3qMKao7bMi-KA
Description
Corn earworm currently is one of the most challenging ear feeding insect pests to manage in sweet corn and a regional team has formed to help develop IPM solutions (more information at CEWIPM.org). This webinar will include two update talks. The first will discuss effectively using baited traps for monitoring adult moths and the second will discuss the benefits of using these traps for managing corn earworm in a Virginia case study.
Rice Growing Workshop Series: January 24 - March 7, 2025
Learn about rice farming opportunities for New York and the northeastern U.S. Join us for a 3-session online workshop series (via Zoom):
- A Feathered Fortress: The Duck-Rice Aigamo System for Flood-Resilient Agriculture
Friday, January 24 / 2:30-4:30pm EST - Sourcing Rice Farming Equipment for American Small Farms
Friday, February 7 / 2:30-4:30pm EST - Growing Rice as a Vegetable: Drip-Irrigation Methods versus Flooded Fields
Friday, March 7 / 2:30-4:30pm EST
Integrated Pest Management Webinar Series
The EPA Center for Integrated Pest Management hosts free webinars featuring experts relaying educational and practical strategies for establishing and improving IPM programs in your facilities and environments. Dates and topics below.
- January 28: Reducing Pests in Schools with IPM with Dawn Gouge and Marcia Anderson"
- February 11: IPM for Four Key Greenhouse Pests
- February 26: Myths about Urban Trees and Soils
- March 19: Ticks - New Threats, Precautions and IPM Solutions
- April 22: Promoting Pollinators through Plant Selection
- May 13: Protecting the Public from Illegal and Unregistered Pesticides
The Eastern New York Spotted Lanternfly Workshop
The Eastern New York Spotted Lanternfly Workshop will be hosted at Benmarl Winery in Marlboro NY on February 4th and 5th 2025.
Feb 4th will feature updates and overviews of the work done by state regulators and researchers. We invite anyone involved in SLF management, whether through municipal agencies, extension outreach, or research, to join the conversation and share experiences and questions.
Feb 5th is oriented towards the growers, wineries, and the grape industry. Presentations will cover basic biology of this pest and practical guidance for vineyards, along with other topics. Attendees will be eligible for pesticide recertification credits.
Register for one day or both at https://enych.cce.cornell.edu/event_preregistration_new.php?id=2018
Greenhouse Scout School Certificate Program and Webinars
Cornell University is partnering with the University of Vermont and the University of Maine to offer a 6-week webinar series in scouting for disease, insect and weed pests of greenhouse ornamentals, although the principles will apply to other crops. Learn how to identify the major pests of greenhouse floriculture crops, make scouting faster and easier, communicate with growers and owners, and find resources to help.
Sessions will be led by Stephanie Burnett, Margery Daughtrey, Betsy Lamb, Elise Lobdell, John Sanderson and Cheryl Sullivan.
February 13, 2025 - March 27, 2025
NYSIPM Academic Seminar Series
Sign up to attend these virtual seminars via the link above.
2/19/25. 11:15am–12:15pm EST
In Pursuit of Prevention: NYSDOH Tick and Tick-borne Disease Surveillance and Research Updates from the Lab and Field
Melissa Prusinski, New York State Department of Health
3/19/25. 11:15am–12:15pm EST
Vacant Land as an Environmental Resource for Conservation and Community Building
Mary M. Gardiner, The Ohio State University and
4/9/25. 11:15am–12:15pm EST
The Threat Posed by ‘Inert’ Ingredients to Bees.
Edward Straw, Trinity College Dublin
IR-4 2025 Industry Technology Session
The 2025 Industry Technology Session (ITS) will be held virtually (via Zoom) on Thursday, February 20. We anticipate a schedule of 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET, but exact timing is subject to change. This annual event invites companies to present updates on products already in IR-4 research, as well as new technologies designed to meet the pest management needs of specialty crop producers. We have shifted the ITS to occur earlier in the year (February rather than July) to better accommodate stakeholders’ busy summer schedules and allow more time before the Project Clearance Request submission deadline of July 1, 2025.
Registration is now open for the 11th International IPM Symposium!
Early Bird Registration Extended Until January 28th!
Register Now, be sure to register soon to secure the best deal.
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- Full Conference or Single-Day Attendance: Whether you plan to join us for the entire symposium or just a day, we have flexible registration options to suit your schedule.
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- Attend over 100 presentations, panels, and workshops: Engage in conversation with top experts on cutting-edge IPM research and innovation covering hot topics including Agriculture, Public Health, Built Environments, Landscape, and Forest/Conservation.
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- Field Trips: Sign up for one of our three excursions and explore the IPM practices of the Port of San Diego, the Midway Naval Museum, or UC San Diego.
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- Professional Development Workshops: Expand your expertise with our Thursday afternoon IPM Evaluation Workshop or Rodent Short Course!
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- Student Discounts: We are pleased to offer discounted registration rates and exclusive activities for students.
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- Visit our website for more detailed information about our program, speakers, webinars, travel.
If you have any questions or you’d like to get involved, contact us at ipmsymposium@ipminstitute.org.
What’s Bugging You First Friday is a monthly virtual series that explores timely topics to help you use integrated pest management (IPM) to avoid pest problems and promote a healthy environment where you live, work, learn and play. IPM is a wholistic approach that uses different tools and practices to not only reduce pest problems, but to also address the reasons why pests are there in the first place. Each month, our speakers will share practical information about how you can use IPM.
The 2025 What’s Bugging You First Friday schedule is available on the program’s website, and you can register for multiple events using our registration form.
February 7: Proper storage of pesticides & household chemicals | Misuse of moth balls
March 7: Considerations for hiring a pest pro | Choosing a tick repellent
April 4: Pest rats explained | Myth: cats for rat control
May 2: Spongy moth caterpillar management | Feeding Friendly Insects: Plan to prep your soil
June 6: Spotted lanternfly update | Recognizing wild parsnip
July 4: Grow green lawns with overseeding | Beech leaf disease
August 1: Making a mosquito bucket trap | Feeding Friendly Insects: Pick plants
September 5: Top 5 rodent exclusion tips | Feeding Friendly Insects: Get ready to plant
October 3: Winterize your home orchard | Feeding Friendly Insects: Fall is for planting
November 1: Understanding indoor cockroaches | Invasive tawney field cockroach
December 5: IPM for clothes moths and pantry moths
Internship Opportunities
Undergraduate Research Experience Internships
Plant Genome Research Program Internship (NSF REU)
Bioinformatics (NSF REU)
Innovative Agricultural Technologies (USDA REEU)
Programmable Plant Systems (NSF REU)
High School Research Internships
Since 2001, BTI has provided High School students the opportunity to participate in hands-on real world research projects for 7 weeks each summer. The goal of the program is to introduce students to plant science and computational biology during the summer of their junior year to provide them with valuable insight about their future career and major. If you are interested in spending the summer engaged in full-time research for 7 weeks at BTI and Cornell, please review the program information, eligibility, and application tips here.
High School Workforce Advantage Program Internships
Join BTI for an immersive seven-week internship for high school students and work alongside a mentor while gaining valuable work experience that lays the foundation for career exploration.
As an intern, you will gain hands-on experience working in a world-class plant science research institute while exploring the departments that make scientific discoveries possible. Our internship program pairs you with a staff mentor who will work alongside you as you learn essential job functions and insight into what it’s like to work in an independent nonprofit research environment and hone skills that will benefit you in your future career. You’ll also participate in workshops where you’ll learn from guest speakers about important topics like credit cards, taxes, interest rates, resume building, and career search.
Employment Opportunities
WNY PRISM is Hiring! All 2025 Summer Positions are Open!
Join the WNY PRISM team and spend the summer gaining valuable experience in invasive species management! Multiple positions are open with varying responsibilities, timeframes and necessary qualifications, so take a look and see what interests you!
For more information, including full job descriptions and to apply, visit https://www.rfhiring.com/jobs.asp.
WNY PRISM is seeking a Field Crew Leader to assist with the successful implementation of WNY PRISM field activities and to provide supervision for seasonal staff. WNY PRISM works on high priority invasive species management projects involving prevention, early detection and rapid response, management, and habitat restoration for both terrestrial and aquatic species. Projects involve multiple partners and represent the diversity of environmental interests and unique habitats across the region. The WNY PRISM Field Crew Leader will work with the Terrestrial Program Manager, and additional Program Managers, to coordinate and implement invasive species management projects involving invasive species surveys, site monitoring, invasive species removal and habitat/native plant restoration projects throughout the 8-county WNY PRISM region.
The Field Crew Leader will be primarily responsible for ensuring the successful implementation and tracking of WNY PRISM field activities including invasive species surveys, removal projects, and habitat restoration efforts. To achieve this, they will supervise and work with the WNY PRISM Crew, a three-person seasonal stewardship team that works May – September.
This is a full-time, temporary position with an expected timeframe of March 31 – October 10, 2025 (40 hours/week, $23.00/hour), with the possibility of extension contingent upon funding. Occasional weekend and evening hours will be required, and some projects may require 10-hour days – will not go over 40 hours/week. Some overnight travel, as well as use of personal vehicles, will also be required.
Environmental Horticulture (Ornamentals) Program Manager
IR-4 Project Headquarters at NC State University seeks an Environmental Horticulture (Ornamentals) Program Manager to join our team. This is a vital role to our organization, and we have renewed our efforts to find the best candidate with an updated job posting.
The IR-4 Project Environmental Horticulture (Ornamentals) Program Manager position will be tasked to coordinate research and pesticide (bio-based and chemical) registration activities on non-food, ornamental plant species within the IR-4 Project. Specifically, this position will direct:
- The establishment of research priorities via a biennial stakeholder priority setting workshop.
- Oversee the establishment of the annual research program including development of research protocols, working with Regional Field Coordinators to identify research cooperators.
- Interface with representatives from registrants, trade associations, and regulatory agencies.
- Critically review results of field trials, assess if there is adequate data to support regulatory actions and/or use recommendations.
This position is aligned with the IR-4 Project mission to facilitate regulatory approval of sustainable pest management technology for specialty crops including ornamental crops and other environmental horticulture uses.
Visit our Careers page to read the full job posting and apply through NC State!
Small Fruit Extension Educator III
UMass Extension is recruiting a Small Fruit Specialist to join our Fruit Team. Currently, our Fruit Team consists of a faculty entomologist, a faculty fruit and vegetable specialist, an Extension Educator specializing in tree fruit horticulture, and an Extension Educator with tree fruit pathology and IPM expertise. We are searching for someone to specialize in small fruit (strawberry, blueberry, brambles, grapes, and others) to complete our team. Please note that cranberries are not included here as they are covered by our specialists at the Cranberry Research Station in Wareham.
The Small Fruit Specialist will develop Extension educational programming and publications and conduct applied research to meet the needs of small fruit growers statewide. They will work to enhance the economic, human, and environmental health of the small fruit industry in Massachusetts. They will provide unbiased, research-based information, publications, and education programs in the areas of small fruit production, cropping systems and diversification, crop health, and Integrated Pest Management. Our primary goal is to facilitate the improvement of small fruit production in Massachusetts and provide new opportunities to growers to expand competitive, quality offerings to their markets, e.g., supermarkets, farm markets, roadside stands, and u-pick operations.
The ideal candidate should be team oriented and independently motivated. They should also be able to converse and build relationships with fruit growers. The position will be based on the UMass Amherst campus; however, the candidate must be willing to travel state-wide and open to collaborating with colleagues throughout the Northeast and possibly beyond.
We look forward to having a Small Fruit Specialist join our fruit team! The job description and application instructions can be found at https://careers.umass.edu/amherst/en-us/job/525901/small-fruit-extension-educator-iii Priority application deadline is January 31, 2025. Questions may be directed to jon.clements@umass.edu.
Assistant Professor-Tenure System
The Department of Horticulture in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University invites applications for a full-time 12-month tenure-system Assistant Professor position (with a 50% Research, 40% Extension, and 10% Teaching assignment) to lead an internationally recognized, innovative and competitively funded research and extension program in weed science and ecology to support Michigan’s fruit and vegetable industries. The position start date is anticipated to be August 16, 2025.
Bioresource Soil Science and Management
The School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS) in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Cornell University welcomes applications for a 9-month, full-time tenure-track position in Bioresource Soil Science and Management at the assistant professor level. The primary production that sustains human life begins and ends with the soil. Yet, degradation of soil health caused by emerging contaminants and agricultural intensification threaten the sustainability of our production systems. Biomass residual resources, such as food waste, human and animal waste, and other plant and animal materials, are often decoupled from production sites, resulting in degradation of soil health and reliance on chemical fertilizers to maintain fertility. Moreover, this decoupling generates waste streams that promote eutrophication of inland and coastal waters. As we reduce fossil fuel usage and increase the circularity of materials flows, there is a demand for research and education related to the management of bioresources in agricultural systems. Relevant research topics include: the effect of organic residuals on soil health and fertility, assessing and mitigating risks caused by the presence of emerging contaminants in residuals applied to soil, developing strategies for improving organics recycling and reuse. This position will serve as a bridge between bioresource producers and consumers, while safeguarding our land, water, and air from the hazard of legacy contaminants and associated toxicological concerns.
Funding Opportunities
Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Grants
We are accepting applications for the Urban Ag and Innovative Production grants. Apply by March 10, 2025, at https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/358029. These grants support community gardens, nonprofit farms, and other organizations that are working to increase food production and access in economically distressed communities, provide job training and education, and develop business plans and zoning proposals.
This recorded webinar gives an overview of the grants’ purpose, project types, eligibility and basic requirements for submitting an application. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63snY3AZrvc
Learn more at https://www.usda.gov/.../urban-agriculture-and-innovative...
REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS Methyl Bromide Transition Program
NIFA requests applications for the Methyl Bromide Transition (MBT) program for fiscal year
(FY) 2025 to support the discovery and implementation of practical pest management
alternatives for commodities and uses affected by the methyl bromide phase-out. Traditional
ecological knowledge is considered an acceptable topic for projects funded by this RFA.
In FY 2025, applications are sought for the following project types:
1. Integrated Projects (Research and Extension only)
2. Extension-Only Projects
This notice identifies the objectives for the MBT projects, deadlines, funding information,
eligibility criteria for projects and applicants, and application forms and associated instructions. FUNDING YEAR: Fiscal Year (FY) 2025
APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 20, 2025,
ANTICIPATED FUNDING: $1,860,434
AVERAGE INDIVIDUAL AWARD
RANGE:
USDA-NIFA-ICGP-011278
$450,000 - $625,000
Previously featured
Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative
The Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI) seeks to solve critical organic agriculture issues, priorities, or problems through the integration of research, education, and extension activities. The purpose of this program is to fund projects that will enhance the ability of producers and processors who have already adopted organic standards to grow and market high quality organic agricultural products. Priority concerns include biological, physical, and social sciences, including economics. The OREI is particularly interested in projects that emphasize research, education and outreach that assist farmers and ranchers with whole farm planning by delivering practical research-based information. Projects should plan to deliver applied production information to producers. Fieldwork must be done on certified organic land or on land in transition to organic certification, as appropriate to project goals and objectives. Refer to the USDA National Organic Program for organic production standards.
The technical assistance webinar related to this FY 2025 funding opportunity is now scheduled. Please see details about the webinar, including the registration link, date, and time, via the technical assistance webinar button below. The recording and supporting documents will also be posted to this page after the event.
Funding: $44 million
Closing Date: February 13, 2025
Crop Protection and Pest Management
The purpose of the Crop Protection and Pest Management program is to address high priority issues related to pests and their management using IPM approaches at the state, regional and national levels. The CPPM program supports projects that will ensure food security and respond effectively to other major societal pest management challenges with comprehensive IPM approaches that are economically viable, ecologically prudent, and safe for human health. The CPPM program addresses IPM challenges for emerging issues and existing priority pest concerns that can be addressed more effectively with new and emerging technologies. The outcomes of the CPPM program are effective, affordable, and environmentally sound IPM practices and strategies needed to maintain agricultural productivity and healthy communities. ?
The technical assistance webinar related to this FY 2025 funding opportunity will be scheduled soon. Please visit again for more information.
Apply For Grant
Funding: $2,450,000
Closing Date: March 6, 2025
Integrated Research, Education, and Extension Competitive Grants Program – Organic Transitions
The overall goal of the Organic Transitions Program (ORG) is to support the development and implementation of research, extension and higher education programs to improve the competitiveness of organic livestock and crop producers, as well as those who are adopting organic practices. NIFA administers the ORG program by determining priorities in U.S. agriculture through Agency stakeholder input processes in consultation with the NAREEEAB. ORG will continue to prioritize environmental services provided by organic farming systems in the area of soil conservation, pollinator health, and climate change mitigation, including greenhouse gases (GHG), as well as the development of educational tools for Cooperative Extension personnel and other agricultural professionals who advise producers on organic practices, and development of cultural practices and other allowable alternatives to substances recommended for removal from the National Organic Program’s National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. It is expected that all projects will integrate research, education and extension activities, as appropriate to project goals, although some projects may be weighted more heavily than others in one or more of these areas. However, all proposals should have activities and impact in research and at least one of the other areas: education and extension.
The technical assistance webinar related to this FY 2025 funding opportunity is now scheduled. Please see details about the webinar, including the registration link, date, and time, via the technical assistance webinar button below. The recording and supporting documents will also be posted to this page after the event.
Funding: $7,500,000
Closing Date: March 6, 2025
Rapid Response to Extreme Weather Events Across Food and Agricultural Systems (A1712)
This program area priority is designed to rapidly deploy strategies and fill knowledge and information gaps to protect the nation’s food and agricultural supply chains, from production through consumption, during and after extreme weather and disasters.
All applications must directly address 1) effects associated with an extreme weather event or disaster and 2) one or more of the following emphasis areas:
- Agroecosystem Resilience
- Food Safety, Nutrition Security, and Agricultural Commodity Security
- Health, Well-Being, and Safety
This priority area seeks applications that focus on critical and urgent solutions in rapid response to extreme weather and disaster impacts on the nation’s food and agricultural systems and that clearly describe short-term deliverables (within 3 months of award receipt), including a plan for their adoption/use.
This priority area encourages projects to have well-developed extension and/or outreach activities. In project narratives and other application materials, applicants must be able to provide a clear, strategic approach to reaching end users.
Grant Types
- Standard and FASE (Strengthening Standard): Applications must be submitted within 45 days of an extreme weather event and disaster. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a continuous basis.
Project types:
- Extension
- Integrated (extension and research)
The grant duration 12 months for Standard and FASE (Strengthening Standard) projects. The maximum award amount, including indirect costs, is $300,000.
Grant Funding Available to Eligible NY Landowners for Establishing Large Forests
There is $4.5 million in grant funding now available to eligible New York landowners through the Establishing Large Forests (ELF) Grant Program. Private landowners (or their representatives) with five or more acres of unforested land in New York State may apply for a minimum of $30,000 up to a maximum of $750,000 to reimburse costs for establishing new forests. Eligible projects need to have a planting component and may also include any associated site work to boost the project’s success, such as preparing sites, removing competing or invasive plants, and protecting new plantings from deer browse with fencing. Applicants must work with a forester or a qualified natural resource professional to develop their project and must agree to maintain the new forest for at least 15 years. ELF builds on New York State’s Regenerate NY Grant Program and supports the state’s progress towards its goal of planting 25 million trees by 2033.
WNY PRISM Crew Assistance Program
WNY PRISM’s Crew Assistance Program was established to help improve invasive species management across the region by assisting partners with priority projects involving invasive species surveys, removal, and habitat restoration. It offers valuable opportunities for partners to work alongside WNY PRISM’s experienced staff and trained seasonal crew to learn about invasive species management and gain experience implementing management strategies and using removal methods and equipment. Since 2016, WNY PRISM has worked with 36 different partners to complete 111 projects.
WNY PRISM is currently accepting proposals for the 2025 Crew Assistance Program! To learn more about the Crew Assistance Program including proposal requirements, eligibility, priorities and review criteria, please view the full WNY PRISM Crew Assistance Program 2025 Request for Proposals (RFP). Be sure to read through the entire RFP as it provides necessary information and instructions to support your proposal. We ask that partners reach out with any questions before the finalized project proposal is submitted. Applications that do not include all the required proposal components may not be considered. For more information, see the WNY PRISM Crew Assistance Program Frequently Asked Questions. You can also read about some of our past projects below! Questions may be submitted to Brittany Hernon, Terrestrial Program Manager at hernonba@buffalostate.edu. Proposals must be received by 5:00 PM on Friday, January 31, 2025.
Nationwide Equity and Accessibility Funding Opportunities
Nationwide Equity and Accessibility
The four Regional Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Centers champion the development and adoption of integrated pest management, the science of managing pests, while protecting people, the environment and economy. To help increase equity and accessibility within the IPM community, the Regional IPM Centers are providing two funding opportunities: Equity and Accessibility Grants and Equity and Accessibility Mini-Grants.
These Equity and Accessibility funding opportunities will be awarded to projects that allow recipients to make progress towards IPM goals, while prioritizing equity and access to IPM tools and resources.
Examples of equity and accessibility projects that have been funded are available. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your ideas for this grant prior to applying, please contact Dr. Katie Hartmann: hartm783@crk.umn.edu.
Equity and Accessibility Grants
The Equity and Accessibility Grant program actively supports equity and accessibility initiatives by offering assistance to organizations and communities led by individuals from diverse backgrounds, including, but not limited to: Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQ+, immigrants, migrants, neurodiverse individuals, Veterans, beginning and women farmers, and members of the disability community, as well as faculty, staff, and students. This grant program also welcomes proposals related to training, education, and collaborations promoting equity and inclusion. Proposals should:
- · Focus on IPM
- · Deliver benefits to communities and stakeholders
- · Enhance the cultural competency of staff
- · Identify gaps in IPM resources and propose ways to improve access
- · Conduct needs assessments for the communities being served.
Funding Available: $80,000 with awards of up to $20,000 each
Period of Performance: End date no later than 9/17/25
Application deadline: Open until funds are depleted
Download the Equity and Accessibility Grant RFA
Equity and Accessibility Mini-Grants
The Equity and Accessibility Mini-Grants program is a smaller-scale funding opportunity for individuals or groups who have innovative ideas but require a smaller budget to execute their projects.
Funding Available: Awards of up to $5,000 each
Period of Performance: End date no later than 9/17/25
Application deadline: Open until funds are depleted
Download the Equity and Accessibility Mini-Grants RFA