IPM News and Events Roundup 03/29/2024
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
April 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. (EDT)
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qX9x7pqRRRKl0x7vFKQl9g
Presenter: Dr. Brian Nault
Large-scale commercial onion production is reliant on synthetic chemical inputs like fertilizer and pesticides to ensure its profitability. Onion thrips (Thrips tabaci) is a major pest that threatens the sustainability of onion production. The potential exists for reducing onion thrips infestations in onion by decreasing levels of fertilizer applied at planting and insecticides applied to foliage during the season. Brian Nault will share the results of his multi-year study with 20 New York commercial onion fields on the viability of reducing synthetic fertilizer and insecticide inputs without compromising onion bulb yields. The onion growers in the study successfully reduced their synthetic chemical inputs resulting in greater profits and a reduction of chemicals in the environment.
New York State IPM Center- Collaboration with Northeastern IPM Center aims to control pests in public housing
In partnership with the Northeastern IPM Center, NYSIPM is working to develop a framework for IPM in public housing in New York, piggybacking on the framework established by structural pest expert Susannah Kryzko and the StopPests in Housing Program.
During her time with StopPests, Krysko gave presentations and offered IPM training to more than 200 public housing properties nationwide.
EPA / FDA / USDA News
EPA Celebrates National Farmworker Awareness Week by Highlighting Pesticide Safety Education Projects
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is celebrating National Farmworker Awareness Week to recognize the millions of farmworkers that help grow and harvest the food that feeds our country.
The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to protecting farmworkers, because they and their families are at high risk for pesticide exposure due to their work in and around areas where pesticides are used. EPA carries out this mission by supporting initiatives that provide pesticide safety training and education to farmworkers and their families. The following are examples of these initiatives:
- Since 1995, EPA has partnered with the Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs to run the National Farmworker Training Program, which provides health and safety training to agricultural workers in over 35 states.
- The work done through the Pesticide Educational Resources Collaborative (PERC), an EPA-funded cooperative agreement with the University of California Davis in partnership with Oregon State University, promotes pesticide safety for people who work with or spend time around pesticides, including pesticide handlers, migrant and seasonal farmworkers, their families, and their communities. PERC funds six agricultural community-based projects in five states and will select up to six additional projects to fund by August 2024. These projects are designed for each agricultural community and consider the language and cultural background of each community.
- Under the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2022 (PRIA 5), up to $7.5 million will fund a National Farmworker Training and Education Program, which will allow EPA to expand its training opportunities and form new partnerships. EPA is currently seeking information on how to meaningfully involve farmworker communities in grant agreements and successful outreach strategies.
- Up to $2.5 million of PRIA 5 funding is set aside for training healthcare providers to recognize and treat pesticide-related injuries, providing additional protections for farmworkers and others at high risk of exposure to pesticides. This future EPA-funded cooperative agreement will support the establishment of a new national training program for healthcare providers to improve the recognition, prevention, treatment, management, and reporting of pesticide-related illnesses. The program seeks to incorporate elements of environmental justice into its training materials, ensuring the program is culturally responsive and has both national reach and local applicability.
EPA aims to provide pesticide safety and training information that is easily understood and culturally appropriate. These initiatives to improve and expand on pesticide safety training and education will allow farmworkers to receive the information they need to protect themselves and their families.
To learn more about EPA’s efforts to protect farmworkers, visit EPA’s Occupational Pesticide Safety and Health homepage.
Earliest records of the Asian longhorned tick (Acari: Ixodidae) in Staten Island, New York, and subsequent population establishment, with a review of its potential medical and veterinary importance in the United States (academic.oup.com | February 27, 2024)
Three Asian longhorned ticks (Haemaphysalis longicornis) were collected on Staten Island, Richmond County, New York, in 2014–2015 as part of a tick-borne disease surveillance program conducted by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Defense Centers of Public Health – Aberdeen Tick-Borne Disease Laboratory. These records mark the earliest known occurrence of H. longicornis in New York State outside of quarantine areas, predating previously reported detections by several years. Robust populations of H. longicornis were collected in subsequent years at the Staten Island site where these few ticks were found, demonstrating that small infestations have the potential to proliferate quickly. Haemaphysalis longicornis is a 3-host ixodid tick native to eastern Asia but now established in the United States, as well as Australasia and several Pacific islands. Although H. longicornis has not yet been associated with human disease transmission in the United States, it warrants attention as a potential vector, as it is demonstrated to harbor various pathogens of medical and veterinary interest across its native and introduced range.
Evaluation of Malus Germplasm Identifies Genetic Sources of Powdery Mildew and Frogeye Leaf Spot Resistance for Apple Breeding (apsjournals.apsnet.org)
Apple is an important fruit crop of temperate regions. The narrow genetic base of commercially cultivated apples has resulted in its vulnerability to a large number of fungal, bacterial, and viral pathogens. Apple breeders are always seeking new sources of resistance within the cross-compatible Malus species that can be deployed into elite genetic backgrounds. We have evaluated resistance to two major fungal diseases of apples: powdery mildew and frogeye leaf spot, using a germplasm collection of 174 Malus accessions to identify novel sources of genetic resistance. In 2020 and 2021, we evaluated these accessions for the incidence and severity of powdery mildew and frogeye leaf spot diseases at Cornell AgriTech, Geneva, New York, in a partially managed orchard. The severity and incidence of powdery mildew and frogeye leaf spot, as well as weather parameters were recorded in June, July, and August. Total incidence of powdery mildew and frogeye leaf spot infections increased from 33 to 38%, and 56 to 97% in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Our analysis showed that relative humidity and precipitation correlate with powdery mildew and frogeye leaf spot susceptibility. The predictor variables with highest impact to the variability of powdery mildew were accessions and relative humidity in May. A total of 65 Malus accessions were found to be resistant to powdery mildew, and only one accession showed moderate resistance to frogeye leaf spot. Several of these accessions belong to Malus hybrid species and domesticated apples and can therefore be potential sources of novel resistance alleles for apple breeding.
Chlorine dioxide affects metabolism of harvested sweet corn (sciencedirect.com)
Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is commonly used to reduce microbial contamination of horticultural produce, but research on physiology and metabolism of treated products is limited. In this study, the effects of ClO2 on gene expression and metabolites of sweet corn kept at 20 ? for 12 d after treatment have been investigated. ClO2 treatment resulted in down-regulation of PE, β-GAL, PG and EXP associated with kernel firmness, down-regulation of IN, FRK, GPI associated with sweetness, and up-regulation of L-APX, AOX, GLP, EDR4, PR-5 associated with antioxidant capacity and disease resistance. ClO2 treatment also inhibited expression of genes associated with the biosynthesis and signaling of ethylene and abscisic acid. Metabolome analysis revealed that ClO2 treatment maintained the content of flavonoids, coumarins and lignans in sweet corn. This study elucidates the physiological and molecular-level regulatory mechanism of ClO2 treatment on the postharvest quality of sweet corn.
Positive effects of public breeding on US rice yields under future climate scenarios (pnas.org)
Rice production in the United States offers a unique model system with which to link genetics and climate change. Here, we model the relationship between genetic variation, yield, and weather using acreage data from the Southern U.S. rice-growing region from 1970 to 2015. We find evidence of positive effects of public breeding on rice resilience to future temperature and precipitation the by comparing predicted performance of groups of more recently released varieties to that of groups of older varieties. In contrast, no differences in relative yield performance were detected between groups of varieties released by state-located breeding programs. Our study provides strategies to examine the relationship between genomic variation and climate resilience that may be extended to other economically important crop species.
In this video, two graduate students at the #FarcuhLab, at @agnrmaryland demonstrate how to determine apple harvest maturity and optimal harvest dates by using different maturity indices, including changes in fruit background and surface color, fruit firmness, starch contents, and soluble solids contents. This is important as an individual maturity index cannot explain the true maturity status of an apple. These indices should be monitored at least 4 weeks before the anticipated commercial harvest.
Fatty Acid Herbicide Efficacy – 2024 (ir4project.org)
Fatty acid herbicides represent potential alternatives for managing glyphosate resistant weeds as well as an option for less environmental impacts for post emergent weed management. However, optimal use patterns have not been fully established. From 2020 to 2023, five different fatty acid herbicides were examined with and without adjuvants to determine optimal use patterns to manage grassy and broadleaf weeds as directed applications. The two different active ingredients screened were pelargonic acid (Axxe and Scythe) and the combination of caprylic acid + capric acid (FireWorxx, HomePlate, and Suppress). The weeds studied were annual bluegrass, (Poa annua), chickweed (Stellaria media), crabgrass (Digitaria sp.), smooth crabgrass (Digitaria ischaemum), field horsetail (Equisetum arense), redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus), and spotted/prostrate spurge (Chamaesyce maculata). Not all products were screened against all weeds, and no herbicide-weed combination was tested in three or more trials. Either solo or in combination with adjuvants, FireWorxx and Suppress provided excellent efficacy of smooth crabgrass, field horsetail, redroot pigweed and spotted spurge. Scythe provided great to excellent efficacy of these same weeds. HomePlate provided excellent efficacy for annual bluegrass and chickweed but variable efficacy for crabgrass. Axxe exhibited good to great efficacy for these same weeds.
The emergence of insecticide resistance in mosquitoes necessitates the exploration and validation of sustainable biological strategies for controlling mosquitoes in their natural habitats. We assessed the predatory effect of Utricularia aurea Lour (Lamiales: Lentibulariaceae), an aquatic carnivorous plant found in the Indian subcontinent, Japan, and Australia, on 4 instars of Anopheles stephensi Liston, Culex quinquefasciatus Say, and Aedes aegypti Linn (Diptera: Culicidae), in the laboratory and field settings. In the laboratory setting, predation of larvae by U. aurea was highest during the first hour when it predated 45%, 61%, and 58% of first instars of An. stephensi, Cx. quinquefasciatus, and, Ae. aegypti, respectively, and, within 12 h, U. aurea preyed upon ~95% of the first, second, and third instars of the 3 mosquito species, ~80% of the fourth instars of An. stephensi and Ae. aegypti, and ~60% of fourth instars of Cx. quinquefasciatus. The predatory effect of U. aurea varied with mosquito species and instar. Broadly, predation risk declined with the increase of the instar size. In the field setting, at the end of 16 days, U. aurea predated 76% and 71% of the immature An. stephensi and Ae. aegypti, respectively. Our findings suggest U. aurea can be utilized as a potential biocontrol agent for controlling mosquito larvae in natural habitats; however, the current claim warrants additional investigations in a variety of natural habitats.
Efficacy of Insecticide Treatment Alternatives to Neonicotinoids Against Seedcorn Maggot in Corn (cals.cornell.edu)
Seedcorn maggot (Delia platura) is a pest of economic significance in large-seeded crops like soybeans and corn, with the potential to dramatically reduce yield in fields with high organic matter. Traditional mitigation efforts rely on the use of neonicotinoid seed treatments, prompting New York State Integrated Pest Management to initiate research projects designed to assess the potential efficacy of alternative treatments.
Under the direction of Field Crops and Livestock Coordinator Kenneth Wise, NYSIPM launched a series of trials to evaluate the success of the anthranilic diamide Chlorantraniliprole and Spinosad seed treatments in controlling seedcorn maggot. Both claim to be effective against the pest, while posing significantly less risk to non-target species, including pollinators. Spinosad is also labeled for organic production.
Ten trials were conducted in four locations across New York in 2022, with limited year-one data revealing little difference in the effectiveness of the traditional or alternative treatments.
Year two research will be expanded to include 12 to 16 trials in seven locations and will explore the efficacy of traditional neonics, fungicide, diamides and untreated seed.
March 2024 North Central IPM Center Issue
Highlights include
- Asian Longhorned Tick webinar available
- Preparing for EPA's Bulletins Two Live!
- Rodent IPM
- AI Opportunities in IPM
Vermont House Passes Pollinator Protection Bill (vpirg.org | March 22, 2024)
The Vermont House of Representatives gave its strong endorsement to legislation designed to protect bees and other pollinators in the state from toxic neonicotinoid pesticides, known commonly as neonics. The vote in the House was 112-29.
The bill (H.706) has four main components: (1) it prohibits the use of field crop seeds (corn, soy, wheat, and cereal) treated with neonicotinoids; (2) it restricts outdoor uses of neonicotinoids that are harmful to pollinators; (3) it requires best management practices for allowed neonicotinoid uses; and (4) it incorporates neonicotinoid-treated seeds into the regulatory framework that already applies to other neonicotinoids.
What one horticulturist has to say about pesticide residue on produce (npr.org | March 25, 2024)
Take a stroll through the produce section at your local grocery store, and you'll likely have to decide whether to buy organic or conventional fruits and vegetables.
There's a bounty of factual information about the differences between organic and non-organic produce, in addition to many common public perceptions — and misperceptions — about which fruits and vegetables are safe and healthy. It can be confusing.
Last week, the nonprofit Environmental Working Group released its annual "dirty dozen" list of the produce items containing the most pesticides, according to data from the Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration. Strawberries and spinach topped the list.
Pest Talks (growertalks.com)
What the ... ?
Getting Ready for SLF
Disease on Herbs
Flower Bleaching & PGR
Ambrosia Beetle Survey
Green Industry Survey
Correctly identifying the cause of a problem is the first step in effective and economic management practices. Learn some tips about how to diagnose the cause of plant problems.
New Study Pinpoints Where the Ticks are in Connecticut Backyards (ctexaminer.com | March 25, 2024)
If you’d like to avoid catching Lyme disease from black-legged ticks that may be lurking in the backyard, you need to tread carefully around stone walls and where woods and lawn meet, according to a new study by scientists at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station New Haven.
Gardens, it turns out, are not among backyard tick hotspots pinpointed in a field study of typical suburban backyards in Guilford from May to July 2022, published February 20 in the journal Environmental Entomology. Leaf-littered woodland with scattered shrubs, on the other hand, is a really bad neighborhood as far as ticks are concerned, according to authors Dr. Megan Linske and Dr. Scott Williams. Another minefield is around stone walls, which triple the density of ticks in their vicinity. Surprisingly, woodpiles do not add to tick numbers. Linske, who led the study, said she suspects the difference stems from the fact that stone walls are relatively permanent, making them virtual condominiums for rodents on which ticks feed, while wood piles are temporary, with few critters using them for shelter.
Bird flu discovered in U.S. dairy cows is ‘disturbing’ (science.org | March 27, 2024)
The bird flu virus that has wreaked havoc around the world appears to have surfaced in U.S. dairy cows, the first time this viral subtype has been documented in any cattle. Three U.S. states—Texas, Kansas, and New Mexico—on 25 March reported cows sickened with what scientists are presuming is the same H5N1 strain of influenza that has killed hundreds of millions of poultry and wild birds.
The cattle infections are spoiling milk and causing limited disease in mostly older animals. Dead birds have also been found on some of the farms, which may explain the source of the virus. Public health officials have stressed that the risk to humans from the virus remains low.
Weeds — A Wicked Problem for Vegetable Growers (growingproduce.com)
It is indeed true that weeds pose a major challenge to vegetable producers, especially in organic production. Weeds have been always in the way of successful crop production, but a perfect storm has evolved over the years as a culmination of various underlying forces.
These forces or underlying factors that contributed to the problem have gone unnoticed so far, but growers are now beginning to realize that they are losing their battle against weeds — similar to how weeds appear as harmless companions to crops while stealing nutrients, water, and other resources intended for the crop.
How to Prepare a Pesticide Container for Recycling or Reconditioning – What “Empty” Means Legally (pestmanagement.rutgers.edu | March 29, 2024)
Always refer to the current pesticide label “Storage and Disposal” requirements for disposal requirements of pesticide containers. EPA’s pesticide container regulations [40 CFR 156] establish standards for pesticide containers and repackaging. Cleaning the container before final disposal is the responsibility of the person disposing of the container. Applicators must follow the label instructions for cleaning and handling empty containers prior to disposal. Container handling statements will also be found in the Storage & Disposal Statements of the pesticide label state whether: 1) is it refillable or non-refillable; 2) can container be reused, recycled, or reconditioned; 3) how to dispose of the container if recycling or reconditioning are not an option; and 4) how to clean the container if cleaning is required.
11th International IPM Symposium Needs You!
We’re looking for volunteers for these committees:
Awards
Students & Early Career Scientists
International
Posters
Silent Auction
Program
Details below!
Be a Part of the Change
Additional volunteers are needed for symposium committees! Responsibilities are outlined here. We will need to move fast to finalize program topics and field trips and begin calls for sessions and awards, so we plan to convene committees in March.
Your Commitment + Reward
The time commitment will be one to ten hours per month depending on the assignment. Past volunteers have found this experience to be professionally and personally rewarding with excellent opportunities for networking and thought leadership!
Where We Stand with Planning IPM Symposium 2025
Our Steering, Finance, Program and Industry Partnership Committees are already in progress and have secured a venue at Paradise Point in San Diego, California for March 3 – 6, 2025.
These committees have worked with engagement specialists Naylor Association Solutions to outline task timelines, begun developing key program topics centered around regional IPM Center priorities, fielded industry input on programming, completed a prospectus for and initiated outreach to potential funders, and begun construction of the new Symposium website.
Thank you for your consideration! Please feel free to reach out to ipmsymposium@ipminstitute.org with any additional questions.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is soliciting public input on a petition submitted by Bayer U.S.-Crop Science (Bayer) to deregulate a corn cultivar developed using genetic engineering. The cultivar is designated as MON95379. It was modified to resist feeding damage caused by target lepidopteran pests, including fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), sugarcane borer (diatraea saccharalis), and corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea). The input we receive during the public comment period will help us identify issues and potential impacts we should consider in our review and determine the appropriate environmental documents to prepare to document our decision.
We are evaluating MON95379 corn under USDA’s legacy regulations (formerly, 7 CFR § 340.6) because Bayer submitted the product for review prior to implementation of our current biotechnology regulations. The legacy regulations focused on whether a plant pest was used in the product development and if there are potential increased plant pest risks compared to conventional counterparts. Under the legacy regulations, APHIS first solicits public input on the petition for 60 days. The comments we receive on the petition aid the Agency in preparing appropriate environmental documents. A second opportunity for public involvement will come when we publish either a notice of availability of a draft environmental assessment and draft plant pest risk assessment or a notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement in the Federal Register.
The petition will be available for a 60-day public comment period. Beginning Monday, March 4, members of the public will be able to submit comments through May 3, 2024 at the link below.
Proposed Changes to the USDA Organic Regulations: Mushroom and Pet Food Standards
Open for Comment
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) published a proposed rule in the Federal Register to amend the USDA organic regulations. The rule proposes specific standards for organic mushroom production and organic pet food handling, creating more consistent standards for these markets. The proposed changes are based on public input and NOSB recommendations.
For organic mushrooms, this proposed rule would:
- Clarify which existing crop production standards apply to organic mushroom production.
- Create a mushroom-specific standard for organic compost production.
- Require operations producing organic mushrooms to:
- Use organic materials for the uncomposted portions of production substrate when commercially available.
- Use organic spawn media when commercially available.
- Use organic mushroom spawn when commercially available.
For organic pet food, the rule would:
- Clarify how existing organic labeling requirements should be applied to organic pet food.
- Allow organic meat and slaughter by-products in organic pet food.
- Describe what ingredients can be used in organic pet food.
- Add synthetic taurine (an amino acid) to the National List and allow its use in organic pet food to meet some pets’ nutritional needs.
The public comment period is open and closes on May 10, 2024. Be part of the policymaking process and make your voice heard—click on the link below to read the proposed rule and submit a comment.
Read and Comment on the Proposed Rule
Previously featured
Cornell University Cooperative Extension is working on a NYFVI grant to collect Cash Rent and Custom Harvest Fee survey data from farms across New York. To date, there is limited information available about rental rates and fees for crop harvesting. Farms can use this valuable information for their farm business planning to help improve decision making and profitability.
https://farmbusiness.cornell.edu/cashrates/
Here we will include survey updates and resources as we continue to go along. Additionally, there are helpful outreach materials including printable surveys, newsletter versions, social media posts, email blurbs, and more. Please feel free to use any and all of the materials there.
We’re asking for help in distributing this survey through your newsletters, media outlets, farmer contact lists, agribusiness groups, presentations, social media, and word of mouth. The data that we collect, and the subsequent reports/findings/resources will be helpful for all of us to answer that call of “what’s the average rental rate in my area” and “how much do people charge to combine oats”.
We appreciate your help in spreading the word and will continue to populate the site with additional marketing materials!
Tickborne disease prevention survey
A master's student in the integrative biological diversity program at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, CT. Is conducting their thesis with the tickborne disease prevention laboratory looking at the effects of mowing frequency, including not mowing, on the behavior of blacklegged ticks. Currently, they are conducting a 5-minute survey on the mowing practices of CT residents to help inform their study design.
The survey is found at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ctlawn
How soil health is a factor in the determination of farmland prices
Have you or are you considering buying farmland or working with people who are? We would be interested to hear from you as a farmland owner about your preferences when purchasing or leasing farmland. If you work with farmland owners or tenants, we would greatly appreciate your forwarding our survey to them. The survey is part of a research project focusing on the (potential) relationship between soil health and farmland prices. Through this research, we aim to explore whether farmland owners are incentivized to build healthy soils when planning to sell their farmland. Additionally, we want to explore if there is a theoretical business model of buying degraded farmland, regenerating it, and selling it for a profit. If there is no relationship between soil health and farmland prices, we will look at policy solutions that incentivize farmland owners to build healthy soils. Ultimately, we hope this research helps farmers and landowners who are good farmland stewards to be rewarded for their soil health-building efforts. Through this, we hope to move our agricultural system toward greater resilience, long-term profitability, and sustainability. Please contact Maximilian Bucher-Melcer (mbb266@cornell.edu) for any questions.
The link to the survey is here: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6kS2mTbjF1aIKvY
National Needs Assessment: DEIA programming in IPM
Katie Hartmann is the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA) for the North Central IPM Center at Iowa State University. She is conducting a national needs assessment of IPM professionals to understand their efforts regarding DEIA topics. The purpose of this study is to understand the IPM programs being facilitated in the country and IPM professionals’ level of comfort and/or needs in regard to incorporating DEIA into their work. So, if you are an IPM professional please consider taking part in her survey.
Webinars, Seminars, Meetings, and More
Newly featured this issue
Teaching Rodent IPM in the High School Classroom
Students at Escuela Verde in Milwaukee, Wisconsin had a chance to learn about integrated pest management (IPM) and hear about rodent biology and pesticide chemistry to create an IPM plan for their school. Ted Snyder, a board-certified entomologist and environmental science teacher, will share how he implemented this learning opportunity. On Friday, March 29th at 2:00 p.m. ET (1:00 p.m. CT), Snyder will describe how to structure an IPM course to fit into a biology or environmental science curriculum. Register to attend.
Previously featured
NE RISCC Listening Session: Chemical and Mechanical Control of Invasives with Climate Change
Calling all invasive species practitioners! Come join members of the Northeast Regional Invasive Species & Climate Change (NE RISCC) leadership team to share your perspectives and information needs around climate change effects on chemical and mechanical control of invasive species. Viewpoints from those who work with any taxa and ecosystem are welcome. The information will be used to guide future research and outreach priorities from NE RISCC. There will be a short presentation to provide context, followed by a facilitated discussion.
April 2, 2024 - 12pm–1pm (ET) - Remote via Zoom
To join, register at this link: https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJckce-vrDgrGd2fn0nMgN2rRwCmApL9QURj
The 8th Annual Saffron Workshop: The Finer Points of Saffron Cultivation
The Finer Points of Saffron Cultivation
Saffron, the stigmas of a fall-blooming crocus flower, is the most expensive spice and medicinal herb in the world. It is now grown in many areas of North America by small, diversified farmers and could strengthen sustainable agriculture. Are you thinking of growing it for the first time? Have you been growing it for several years? The North American Center for Saffron Research and Development at the University of Vermont (UVM) and Rodale Institute in Pennsylvania are hosting the 8th annual workshop on Saffron on Thursday April 4, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm. The event will be held online and recorded for all registrants. There are presentations for both beginning and experienced growers.
Experts and growers from the US and Lebanon will share their knowledge about growing, harvesting and selling this precious crop. World-renown filmmakers Gelareh Kiazand and Yara Elmjouie will share information on their global investigation of saffron adulteration. Registration is $60.To learn more about the workshop and register, go to:
https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/index.php?eventid=792996&
Questions? Contact:
Margaret Skinner
Tel: 1-802-656-5440; Email: mskinner@uvm.edu
IR-4 Project Research Symposium: Food Crops Tuesday
The annual IR-4 Project Research Symposium: Food Crops will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, from 1-4 pm ET. During this virtual event, presenters will share research results from Integrated Solutions and Product Performance trials on food crops. Results from these trials are used to identify potential pest management solutions for specialty crops and to support product registrations. We hope you’ll join us!
An agenda with presentation topics will be available closer to the event. View the 2023 Research Symposium presentations here.
SLELO PRISM invites you to attend a series of Zoom webinars to be held beginning in January 2024 through May. The webinars are free and continuing education credits are available. Registration is required to receive a link to the Zoom webinar and recordings will be sent to registrants.
- April, 10th, 1 PM-2 PM- Enhancing the Health of Riparian Ecosystems Through Restoration and Invasive Species Management. Get an overview of our multiyear Riparian Restoration Initiative. Learn about the ecological importance of the project areas, invasive species impacts, control & restoration methods used, selected plants, community involvement, and future plans.
- April, 10th, 1 PM-2 PM- Enhancing the Health of Riparian Ecosystems Through Restoration and Invasive Species Management. Get an overview of our multiyear Riparian Restoration Initiative. Learn about the ecological importance of the project areas, invasive species impacts, control & restoration methods used, selected plants, community involvement, and future plans.
- May 17th, 1 PM-2 PM- Birds as Habitat Health Indicators. Conservation Director of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, Neil Gifford, will discuss a bird banding and tracking program used to determine ecosystem health on the preserve, the impacts invasive species can have on bird habitat, the benefits of invasive species management, as well as ways homeowners and land managers can support birds.
NEVBD is accepting applications to the 2024 Vector Biology Boot Camp! This no-cost program provides hands-on training in tick and mosquito biology, behavior, ecology, taxonomy, and more. Ideal program applicants include non-academic professionals with limited experience in key components of tick or mosquito surveillance and/or control, whose job duties specifically involve vector surveillance and/or control.
Applications are required. Lodging and meals provided. Attendees responsible for own travel; assistance may be available on an individual basis.
WHEN: Tuesday May 21 – Thursday May 23, 2024
WHERE: Maine Health Vector Ecology Lab, 81 Research Drive, Scarborough, ME 04074
HOW TO APPLY: Submit an application by Friday March 1, 2024. There is no fee to apply or register.
You can access the application form here or visit our Vector Biology Boot Camp website at https://www.neregionalvectorcenter.com/vector-biology-boot-camp.
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 2024 What’s Bugging You First Friday schedule is now available on the program’s website, and you can register for multiple events using our registration form. We look forward to seeing you in 2024!
April 5th: Weed ID | Rats in Vegetable Gardens
May 3rd: No-Mow May | What to do with Grass Clippings
June 7th: Tick & Mosquito Yard Treatments | Myth: Mosquito Repellent Plants
July 5th: Japanese Beetle Management | Aphid-Eating Insects
August 2nd: Spotted Lanternfly Update | Box Tree Moth Update
September 6th: Back to School: Bed Bugs | Head Lice
October 4th: Identifying Pests in Your Home
November 1st: 2024 Tick Blitz Results | No Spray Needed
December 6th: Feed the Birds | Repurposing a Holiday Tree
2024 Webinar Series for Greenhouse, Nursery & Garden Center Professionals
Join UNH Cooperative Extension and other experts to sharpen and refresh plant production skills. These monthly webinars on a variety of topics are intended to provide practical training for greenhouse, nursery and garden center professionals, although all are welcome to attend. One New England pesticide applicator recertification credit has been applied for each event.
Register for one, multiple or all of the interactive, Online Classes
2024 Class Dates:
April 30 - Mycorrhizae - Dr. Anissa Poleatewich
June 25 - Growing Media (types, components, attributes) - Jonathan Ebba
July 30 - Considerations for Growing with Wood Fiber - Jonathan Ebba & Mark Sanford
August 27 - Thielaviopsis Control - Dr. Bo Liu
September 24 - Injecting a Drench - Jonathan Ebba
October 29 - Renewable Energy Sources for Greenhouse Environmental Control - Dr. Md Sazan Rahman
November 26 - Mealybug - Dr. Amber Vinchesi-Vahl
December 17 - Fertilizer Selection Basics/Water Analysis - Jonathan Ebba
If you have questions or would like assistance registering for or accessing the webinars, including language access, please contact Jonathan at Jonathan.Ebba@unh.edu
Save the Date!
The 11th International IPM Symposium
March 3 – 5, 2025
San Diego, CA
This is an excellent opportunity for state IPM program directors and ARDP PDs to meet USDA NIFA presentation requirements.
The Symposium is a key conference that cuts across IPM issues and offers much in the way of highlighting current issues in IPM, presentations on current research and developments, and valuable networking for stakeholders.
The Saul T. Wilson, Jr., Internship Program
Are you a student in veterinary medicine or biomedical sciences? We have paid internships—with tuition assistance—available at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service (APHIS). Our interns work alongside APHIS veterinarians and other experts at the forefront of animal health to protect American agriculture.
Previously featured
Plant Health Division: Plant and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory Summer Internship Program Application
This is a 10-week PAID summer internship hosted by the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) for a current natural resources student that is interested in working in regulatory plant health. This internship is designed to prepare students for a career in regulatory/government plant health as well as bring awareness to the different jobs and career paths that a natural resources professional could have working for ODA. Being a regulatory plant health professional requires a unique skill set that is often hard to address in the classroom curriculum. This program is an opportunity to gain hands on experience within the Department of Agriculture.
Penn State's Southeast Agricultural Research & Extension Center - Summer Research Assistant
The SEAREC Internship is a comprehensive experiential learning program. Each summer, 3 to 6 individuals are invited to work beside educators and faculty to conduct research and produce crops from May through August.
Participants in the program support vegetable, small fruit, floriculture, industrial hemp, field crop and environmental research and education. Students matriculated at any college or university may apply for the position.
Enrichment programming is provided through invited guest lectures, field trips, professional development, and events throughout the summer. Past topics have included environmental health and safety, self-mentorship, plant nutrition, biological control, permaculture, resume building, and ag careers. Past interns have gone on to successful positions in natural resource management, non-profit farm management, floriculture, agricultural industry support, public service, and post-graduate study.
Weed Scientist - Invasive and Noxious Weeds/ Assistant Professor
North Dakota State University Department of Plant Sciences invites applications for this 12-month, tenure track position at the academic level of Assistant Professor. The rapid expansion of invasive and noxious weeds poses threats to natural area management and agriculture in North Dakota. This position will require focus and rapid reaction to provide timely research and management recommendations relevant to rangeland, pastures, cropland, and rights-of-way areas. The person filling this position will establish collaborative working relationships within NDSU and across the statewide agronomist network, as well as with state agencies and private industries. Cooperation with local land managers will be important to plan and conduct research aimed at limiting the spread of early invaders and unique weedy targets. Potential areas of research include weed biology, invasive species ecology and management, herbicide resistance screening, biological control, or site-specific herbicide application technology.
Weed Scientist - Invasive and Noxious Weeds / Assistant Professor - North Dakota State University
Fargo https://bit.ly/3uXKBJh
2024 Invasive Plant Project Coordinator
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry (DACF) is looking to fill an invasive plant outreach coordinator position to work starting this spring on a 40-hour-per-week basis until completion of the project next fall or winter. The project involves educating plant sellers about invasive plants that may become hitchhikers in plant pots, root balls, or other horticultural materials and providing best management practices to prevent weeds in production, holding, display, or sales areas. The successful candidate will develop outreach and educational materials, plan, coordinate, and implement in-person and online workshops, and work with growers to solve invasive plant management issues. Work will be based in Augusta, Maine, with some opportunities for telework. Statewide travel is expected. This is a contract position
at $18/hr
UNH Extension Seeks Field Specialist, Food and Agriculture, in Hillsborough County
This position is located at Extension’s Hillsborough County Office in Goffstown, N.H. The field specialist will provide technical assistance and develop educational programming in fruit and vegetable production to both new and experienced growers. Expertise in fruit or vegetable production is a priority for this position. Additional expertise in soil nutrition, integrated pest management or agricultural engineering is desirable. The candidate will work individually and as part of a team to host educational events and produce educational resources.
Xerces Society
JOB TITLE: Pollinator Habitat Specialist (Living Farms Project) - Full-time
You’ll be joining a growing team of professionals working to conserve some of the world’s most important animals. The California Pollinator Habitat Specialist (Food Industry and Supply Chain) will support Xerces’ private-sector partners in designing and implementing cutting-edge conservation systems for bees and beneficial insects on farms across California and the Western U.S.
Supervised by Senior Pollinator Habitat Specialist, Food Systems and Living Farms Project Lead, this position will collaborate closely with farm managers, as well as key staff at some of the largest food companies in the world to design and implement biodiversity and regenerative practices on farms that serve the manufactured food and fresh produce industries.
LOCATION: California; ideal candidate would be located or willing to relocate to San Joaquin Valley or Central Coast of California (Fresno, Bakersfield, San Luis Obispo, etc.).
COMPENSATION: $31.51 / hour, approximately $65,541 per year based on 2,080 hrs.
STATUS & SCHEDULE: Full-Time, hourly, non- exempt position, scheduled to work ~ 40 hours/week.
JOB START DATE: May 2024
APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 5,2024
All applications must be submitted via our application website at: Apply here
Xerces Society
JOB TITLE: Freshwater Mussel Technician (Temporary)
The position will consist mainly (95%) of conducting fieldwork in rivers and streams throughout Oregon and Washington, which will require the employee to drive a vehicle from their location to field sites. The majority of field sites are located in central Oregon. Duties will be primarily focused on surveying for freshwater mussels in central Oregon, with additional duties to support research and conservation efforts elsewhere in Oregon and Washington. Data collection will require snorkeling and wading in order to conduct visual and tactile surveys for freshwater mussels. The position will report to the Xerces Society’s Freshwater Mussel Program Lead (Portland, OR office) and work in collaboration with other Endangered Species team staff and federal, tribal, and state land management and wildlife agencies.
The successful candidate must have prior experience snorkeling and be able to swim, carry 30 pounds using a backpack, walk over uneven terrain, and be comfortable working long hours in the field as part of a team. Prior experience collecting and identifying freshwater mussels and driving unimproved roads in remote areas is preferred. Applicants with wilderness first aid and/or swift-water rescue certifications is also preferred. Successful candidates will be required to pass an in-water safety training, including a swim test, upon hiring.
LOCATION: Portland, Oregon. Majority of work sites located in central Oregon, with additional travel to sites in Washington state.
COMPENSATION: $22 per hour;
JOB TERM: Start date of approximately June 3, 2024. Term of employment is approximately 4 months after the expected start date.
STATUS & SCHEDULE: Seasonal, hourly non- exempt position, scheduled to work ~ 40 hours/week.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 29, 2024
All applications must be submitted via our application website at: Apply here
Urban Entomology Lab Manager and Industry Project Coordinator
Position Description: The DeVries Lab in the Department of Entomology at the University of Kentucky is
recruiting a Lab Manager and Industry Project Coordinator (full time) to assist in urban entomology
research and extension efforts. Defined broadly, urban entomology encompasses a multitude of topics
relating to biology, behavior, and management of pests found indoors and around structures. The primary responsibilities of this position include: rearing insects (primarily cockroaches and bed bugs), conducting experiments independently and as part of a team, working in homes with pest-infestations, delivering education materials to the public (homeowners, pest control operators, chemical companies), helping students, ordering supplies, and overseeing day-to-day lab operation.
OHIO-Muskingum County-Zanesville
Organization: Natural Resources
We are accepting applications for a Nursery Manager position within the Division of Forestry, headquartered at the new Buckeye State Tree Nursery, in Muskingum County. The address is 5892 Memory Road, Zanesville, Ohio 43701. To learn more about the Division of Forestry, visit Division of Forestry | Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ohiodnr.gov).
What you will do…
- Manage operations/activities of statewide tree nursery (i.e., Buckeye State Tree Nursey) to include production, statewide sales & distribution of seedlings;
- Serve as direct supervisor of assigned staff;
- Formulate, develop & implement nursery operational plans, policies, & procedures;
- Formulate & develop budgets, capital improvement plans, manpower needs & equipment needs;
- Provide information to public & speak to schools, civic organizations & service clubs;
- Starting hourly pay of $29.49/hr with multiple pay increases over your first 7.5 years of service, with an end salary of $42.01/hr.
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT REQUIRED TO REMAIN IN THE CLASSIFICATION AFTER EMPLOYMENT: Must obtain & maintain pesticide applicator’s license, must attend & successfully complete Introductory Wildfire Classes S130-190.
UNUSUAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Works outside; exposed to inclement weather; exposed to dirt & dust; exposed to herbicides & pesticides.
Hours may vary and may include evenings, weekends & holidays. May be called 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
Part-Time Program Assistant - Pennsylvania IPM (Integrated Pest Management) Program
The Pennsylvania IPM (Integrated Pest Management) Program, based in the Dept. of Entomology at Penn State, seeks a bilingual (English/Spanish) Outreach Specialist to work in urban communities in Philadelphia and beyond to implement IPM programs and maintain and develop relationships with PA IPM partners. The successful applicant will work as part of a team to support and sustain IPM using face-to-face and online activities to teach the public how to control pests (bed bugs, cockroaches, mice, rats, etc.) in structures in urban communities, including single family homes, row houses, schools, commercial buildings, and other settings. The successful applicant will conduct public outreach including attending community and task force meetings, and events such as health and community events. Latinx residents make up over 15% of Philadelphians, and even higher proportions in some collar-counties (e.g., Latinx make up over 23% of Berks residents). This is an important and growing constituency for IPM outreach and adoption, and will be a major focus for this position. Spanish speaking, reading, and writing fluency is required. Additionally, one must be a trusted worker who is respected by the people they serve and able to apply their own unique understanding of the experience, socio-economic needs, language, and/or culture of the communities served.
Environmental Horticulture Program Manager
The IR-4 Project seeks an Environmental Horticulture Program Manager to join its Headquarters team based on North Carolina State University’s Centennial Campus.
Reporting to the Executive Director, this role will coordinate research and pesticide (bio-based and chemical) registration activities on non-food, ornamental plant species. 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. This is a full-time (40 hours per week), EHRA non-faculty position.
Visit our Careers page to learn more about the role and apply.
The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) seeks to hire a full-time Orchard Manager at its flagship
Meadowview Research Farms in Southwest Virginia. The Orchard Manager will work both
individually and as part of a team on essential land management tree breeding and seed harvest tasks
year-round. Reporting to the Director of Land Management, the ideal Orchard Manager will bring
skills, knowledge and willingness to learn in areas such as vegetation management, safe operation of
heavy agricultural equipment, handling and organization of biological samples, and natural resource
conservation. Knowledge and experience pertaining to plant biology and breeding is a plus. As a staff
member of Meadowview Research Farms, the Orchard Manager will interface professionally with
members of the public, connecting specific tree breeding and land management projects with TACF’s
overall mission.
Position: Orchard Manager
Position Type: Full-time permanent position with a robust benefits package
Position Location: Meadowview Research Farms, Meadowview, VA
Reporting to: Director of Land Management
Salary Recruitment Range (DOE): $21.19-$23.08 per hour - TACF is a living wage employer.
Many fantastic job opportunities with open calls for applications related to aquatic work happening in and around SLELO PRISM
- SUNY Oswego and USGS GLSC : In collaboration with the United States Geological Survey Great Lakes Science Center, SUNY Oswego is hiring three aquatic biologists who will help support ongoing native fish restoration efforts. The three hires are focused on expanding collaborations with our regional partners, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), to research topics associated with native fish (e.g., Atlantic salmon and coregonines) restoration efforts. If you know of any potential candidates, please share this information with them. The full job descriptions, which include the links to apply, can be viewed via the linked job titles below:
Director - UMass Cranberry Station / Extension Associate/Full Professor
The University of Massachusetts is seeking an experienced scientist, innovative leader and Extension educator to serve in a full-time, 12-month appointment as Extension Associate or Full Professor and Director of the UMass Cranberry Station located in East Wareham, Massachusetts. The Director will provide: 1) vision, support, and coordination in planning, developing and implementing departmental programs in research and extension in accordance with the Land Grant Mission; 2) leadership in recruiting and fostering academic growth and professional development of faculty, staff, and students; 3) administration of human, physical and financial resources; and 4) promotion of external funding opportunities. The successful candidate will report to the Director of the Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment.
Questions about the position may be directed to averill@eco.umass.edu.
Postdoctoral Associate – Center for Research on Programmable Plant Systems (CROPPS) – Plant Bioengineering Team - Ithaca • Van Eck Laboratory
A postdoctoral associate position is available at The Boyce Thompson Institute, located on the Cornell University campus in Ithaca, NY. The postdoctoral associate will be part of an exciting NSF-funded Science and Technology Center (CROPPS) (https://cropps.cornell.edu/) that is an interdisciplinary and interinstitutional initiative focused on innovative technologies and approaches for two-way communication with plants to be realized.
The postdoctoral associate will be part of a team involved in development of innovative, efficient, and high-throughput plant genetic engineering methodologies, including robotics and automation approaches, especially for the crops (tomato, cotton, maize) that are the focus of CROPPS. A high priority goal is development of in-planta (non-tissue culture) transformation and gene editing approaches that do not require plant tissue culture methods. In parallel with this effort will be investigation of novel plant cell delivery methods. The successful candidate will have opportunities to collaborate with groups at the participating institutions along with gaining leadership and mentoring skills as part of CROPPS. Projects will involve collaboration with a vibrant group of engineers and biologists, including roboticists (https://www.mae.cornell.edu/faculty-directory/robert-f-shepherd), biomolecular engineers (https://chemistry.cornell.edu/christopher-alabi) and researchers whose work builds on synthetic biology.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Entomology
Applied Entomology Laboratory at the University of Maine is looking to hire a postdoctoral research associate to conduct research on insects of economic importance to the potato industry. Responsibilities include performing field, laboratory, and greenhouse experiments on the University of Maine campus in Orono and on Aroostook Research Farm in Presque Isle, curating and analyzing data, and preparing manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Education associated with a Ph.D. degree in Entomology, Biology, Zoology, or related field is required by date of hire. This position is grant-funded for one year, with an extension possible for a total duration of up to 4.5 years, depending on satisfactory performance and funding availability.
Detailed job description and application instructions are available at https://umaine.hiretouch.com/job-details?jobid=83758. Screening of applications will start on March 15 and continue until a suitable applicant is found. For questions about the search, please contact search committee chair Andrei Alyokhin at alyokhin@maine.edu or 207-581-2977.
Virginia Tech - Invasive Species Working Group (ISWG)
Virginia Tech is seeking applicants for seven tenure track positions associated with the Invasive Species Working Group (ISWG). These new faculty positions will be housed within several colleges and academic units across campus as part of a large university wide interdisciplinary investment (Destination Area Phase 2) to make Virginia Tech a center of excellence in the science, policy, and management of invasive species at state, national, and international levels.
The collaboration amongst new hires and existing faculty is paramount, and will enhance flagship programs in a broad range of disciplines and build on the broad foundation developed by the ISWG. This long-term vision will create a strong interdisciplinary team of Virginia Tech faculty working on one of the top five global threats, addressing invasive species research, teaching, and outreach. We are seeking individuals who possess the skills to bridge disciplinary divides, drive innovative solutions, and engage in team science to apply for the following positions (associated college homes are indicated).
Please note that positions will be announced throughout the 2024 calendar year.
Invasive Species Research and Extension – Closes April 8th, 2024
Community Science Coordinator, Native Plant Trust (Wayland, MA)
Native Plant Trust
We seek a Community Science Coordinator to work with two of Native Plant Trust’s core initiatives—the New England Plant Conservation Program (NEPCoP) and the Plant Conservation Volunteer (PCV) program—which engage professional and community volunteers in rare species monitoring, habitat management, reintroduction and augmentation projects, and long-term conservation planning. We work closely with Natural Heritage programs and conservation organizations in all six New England states.
Position Summary
The Community Science Coordinator is responsible for developing and administering the Plant Conservation Volunteer (PCV) program and managing data on the conservation of plants in New England.
WNY PRISM is Hiring! All 2024 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, time frames 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.
Invasive Species Strike Team Technician
The Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) is looking to hire 3 motivated & reliable Invasive Species Strike Team Technicians to join us in controlling invasive species throughout the Catskills this season:
One Aquatic Strike Team Technician & 2 Terrestrial Strike Team Technicians.
Postdoctoral Scholar- Lieurance Invasion Science Lab
We are hiring a postdoctoral scholar in the Lieurance Invasion Science Lab at Penn State University to work on projects related to improving our understanding of the invasion risk of nonnative species to enhance the way we inform invasive species prevention and management. My research program utilizes techniques to measure plant chemistry, photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and other traits to advance our understanding of why some nonnative species become invasive and how biological invasions are affected by climate change. This is a term appointment in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management funded for one year from date of hire, with excellent possibility of funding for a second year.
Newly featured this issue
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has posted an Invasive Species Eradication Funding Opportunity to request proposals that support the eradication of a newly introduced or established invasive species in terrestrial or aquatic habitats of the United States, including the U.S. territories (aquatic habitats include freshwater, wetland, riparian, estuarine, and marine environments). While preference will be given to proposals that result in eradication of invasive species, research proposals that advance the effectiveness and availability of eradication tools will be considered.
As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law authorization for ecosystem restoration, the Department of the Interior (DOI) invested $3 million to establish an Invasive Species Eradication Funding Opportunity. It is administered within the existing authorities of DOI and administered by the USFWS in collaboration with DOI bureaus. The intent of this funding opportunity is to promote and invest in those projects with a high likelihood of achieving eradication success and that have existing partnerships and plans in place.
Please note that projects responding to founding populations of aquatic invasive species within the early detection and rapid response context should instead apply for funding through the Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species. Projects addressing established aquatic invasive species infestations with a high likelihood of eradication can apply for this Eradication Funding Opportunity.
General information about the funding for invasive species eradication can be found HERE.
Previously featured
DACF Maine Opens Applications for PFAS Fund
The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) announced today that the Fund to Address PFAS Contamination (PFAS Fund) is accepting applications for assistance from commercial farms impacted by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination.
The $60 million PFAS Fund was established by Governor Mills with bipartisan legislative support to provide impacted farmers with financial assistance, purchase contaminated farmland from willing sellers, accelerate research to help inform on-farm management decisions, and support health-related initiatives.
The impact of PFAS on some farms and farm families is not unique to Maine. The practice of applying wastewater residuals to farmland is an approved practice by EPA nationwide. However, because these so-called “forever chemicals” can be taken up into soil, water, livestock, products, and ultimately humans, a robust response from the Legislature and the State of Maine was necessary. The PFAS Fund is a novel effort to specifically address PFAS in agriculture.
The PFAS Fund will augment DACF’s existing PFAS Response Program, a first-in-the-nation effort to work directly with impacted farmers to navigate the uncertainties of PFAS contamination by providing technical and financial assistance. In many instances, PFAS-impacted farms can modify their operations to operate safely and remain viable; however, assistance is critical to their success. Commercial farmers who have been impacted by PFAS contamination can now apply for an expanded suite of financial support programs:
Administrative Cost Grants: A one-time grant intended to partially compensate commercial farms for time spent on activities common to most farms upon the initial discovery of PFAS contamination.
Income Replacement Payments: Commercial farms that have stopped selling some or all products due to PFAS contamination may apply to DACF for up to a total of 24 months of lost income support, adjusted for inflation, while they avail DACF’s technical assistance to determine a viable path forward.
Technical Assistance / Professional Services: Financial support for professional services to help guide recovery efforts (e.g., business planning).
Clean Feed Assistance: Short-term financial support for clean feed when it is necessary for the health and welfare of livestock and when clean feed is not available from the farm.
Equipment and Input Cost Grants: Financial support for equipment and related input costs to allow a commercial farm to convert its operations to accommodate new products and production methods.
Infrastructure Grants: Financial support for infrastructure projects (permanent physical assets and structures) that will help a commercial farm transition to new products and production methods.
Debt Service on Existing Loans: Payments toward loan obligations directly related to farm infrastructure built/installed just prior to the discovery of PFAS contamination.
New Loan Assistance: Financial support for costs associated with obtaining new loans.
Additionally, for commercial farmers who have made the difficult decision to stop farming on their current property due to PFAS contamination, the PFAS Fund may purchase real estate at fair market value as if there were no contamination. Once acquired by the State, these properties will be managed with a long-term goal of returning the land to agricultural production whenever possible.
“Through the hard work of many, we are pleased that the Fund’s enhanced support programs are coming online,” said DACF Commissioner Amanda Beal, “These components of the PFAS Fund are the result of a public process that began over a year ago. DACF worked directly with the agricultural community to identify priorities and design programs to distribute funding effectively. Maine’s efforts to proactively address PFAS contamination in agriculture demonstrates how important Maine’s farmers are to our state and positions us well to be a resource for other states.”
“As a legislator and a farmer, working on this initiative has been particularly meaningful,” said Senator Stacy Brenner (District 30), co-chair of the PFAS Fund Advisory Committee. “Knowing the challenge of starting a farm business in this day and age, we want to keep farmers farming whenever possible. The work of the advisory committee, stakeholders and the associated State departments has yielded a safety net for farmers who find themselves in an unfortunate position at no fault of their own. I'm grateful for our collective work and the potential it has to support our PFAS impacted farmers.”
"In 2022 the Legislature passed and funded the PFAS Fund with strong bi-partisan support,” said Representative Jessica Fay (District 86), the PFAS Fund Advisory Committee’s other co-chair. “It has been a pleasure to work with the Advisory Committee on implementation of the program in a way that will provide meaningful relief to Maine farmers impacted by PFAS. Maine has led the nation in its response and that is something to build on going forward."
By the end of 2024, the PFAS Fund expects to launch additional programs, including a competitive research grant program, a program to cover PFAS blood serum testing costs not covered by insurance, and a program to provide access to mental health services for eligible individuals.
Further information about DACF’s PFAS response and assistance programs can be found online at https://www.maine.gov/dacf/ag/pfas/.
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Partnership and Graduate Student Research Grant Programs Call for Proposals Two Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) grant programs are calling for 2024 proposals. Northeast SARE’s Administrative Council has allocated $750,000 for Partnership Grants and $500,000 for Graduate Student Research Grants. Northeast SARE – including funding decisions – is guided by its outcome statement: “Northeast agricultural communities honor the holistic connection among land, water, air, and all living beings. Agriculture in the Northeast is accessible, sustainable, and just, addressing historic and current inequities so all farmers and farm employees can steward resources to ensure sustainability, resilience, economic viability, and a high quality of life.”
Partnership Grants fund researchers, educators and agricultural service providers working in direct partnership with farmers in the Northeast. Funded projects will design and implement innovative solutions to agricultural sustainability challenges, and strengthen connections between farmers and agricultural service providers. Partnership Grant proposals are capped at $30,000; about 30 projects will be awarded. Proposals are due April 9, 2024, 5:00 p.m. EST. View the Partnership Grant Call
Graduate Student Research Grants fund students conducting research under the supervision of a faculty advisor on sustainable agriculture topics of importance to Northeast farmers, agricultural researchers, and farm support professionals. Graduate Student Research Grant proposals are capped at $15,000; about 30 projects will be awarded. Proposals are due April 16, 2024,5:00 p.m. EST. View the Graduate Student Research Grant Call
Live question and answer sessions for both the Graduate Student Research and Partnership grant programs will take place throughout March and into April. These sessions are a great opportunity for potential applicants to learn if a Northeast SARE Grant is right for them. They are also a chance to build understanding around how to successfully write and manage Northeast SARE grants.
Graduate Student Research Grant Q&A sessions will take place March 12, 20, 26, and April 3 from noon-1 p.m. EST. Register for a Graduate Student Grant Q&A Session
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Enjoy your day!
Jerrie