IPM News and Events Roundup 04/11/2025
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.
This work is supported by The Northeastern IPM Center, project reward Grant #2022-70006-38004, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and should not be construed to represent any official USDA or U.S. government determination or policy.
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Northeastern IPM Center News
Pesticide Label Changes Brought on by the Endangered Species Act
April 29, 2025 – 11:00 a.m. (eastern)
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pFWLC05_TyGcd9BAUeZjBw#/registration
The webinar will be recorded for anyone unable to attend the live session.
Description
This training will cover the following topics:
- Why are pesticide labels undergoing changes to protect endangered/threatened species?
- What changes can you expect to see on pesticide labeling?
- How implementable are these changes? How can you ensure you are compliant?
- What is the current status of ESA-required label changes?
- Where can I find more resources on this topic?
Niranjana Krishnan
Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland, College Park
EPA / FDA / USDA / NIFA News
The National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) will meet to discuss substances petitioned for addition to or deletion from the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances (National List), substances due to sunset from the National List in 2027, and recommendations on organic policies.
The NOSB typically meets twice per year in various locations around the United States. Prior to meetings, the NOSB reviews written public comments and listens to oral public comments. During meetings, the NOSB discusses agenda items, and then votes on recommendations to the Secretary in a public forum. Detailed meeting information, including agendas, locations, proposals, and public comments, will be posted below as it becomes available. For information on previous meetings, visit the NOSB meetings page.
NOSB Spring 2025 Meeting dates:
The meeting will be held virtually
- April 22 & 24, 2025, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Eastern: Public Comment Webinars
- April 29 - May 1, 2025, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Eastern: Public Meeting
Public Comment Webinars
- Day 1: Tuesday, April 22 from Noon - 5:00 pm Eastern
- Day 2: Thursday, April 24 from Noon - 5:00 pm Eastern
EPA Announces Multiple Actions to Protect Endangered Species from Insecticide Carbaryl
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing that it has approved labels that implement measures required by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) final biological opinion and is providing to the public the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) final biological opinion on carbaryl.
Carbaryl is an insecticide used on a variety of crops, including field vegetables and orchard crops, in professional turf management, professional ornamental production, and in residential lawn and garden markets.
USDA Extends Response Deadline for 2024 Census of Horticultural Specialties
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will continue to collect the 2024 Census of Horticultural Specialties through April 18. The 2024 Census of Horticultural Specialties data will expand on the 2022 Census of Agriculture data with information on horticultural crop production, value of products, square footage used for growing crops and production expenses.
Research in the news
Christmas Tree Scouting Reports
Welcome to the Christmas tree scouting report where you will find weekly updates on pests and growing conditions around the state. If you are interested in contributing scouting information on any pest impacting raising Christmas trees, please email Kelly Piccioni at keg200@psu.edu.
Trees could be spying on illegal gold mining operations in the Amazon rainforest (frontiersin.org)
In the Amazon, gold mining is a thriving business, pushing deep into the rainforest and indigenous lands. Small-scale operations set up primarily illicitly and operated in the shadows use mercury, a substance with neurotoxic properties, for gold extraction. Now, a team of researchers examined if trees native to the Peruvian Amazon could be used as biomonitors for gold mining activities. By examining mercury concentrations in tree rings, they concluded that some species could bear witness to illegal mining activities.
Do alien plants reduce insect biomass? (conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com)
Non-native plants are a common feature of gardens and urban landscapes. Many of these plants are selected specifically because they are unpalatable to insects. But, insects are a critical part of the food chain, supporting a wide variety of birds (particularly nestlings), mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Tallamy (2004) argues that the widespread planting of non-native species in urban and suburban landscapes is having an insidious and detrimental effect on urban fauna. Why are non-native species likely to be problematic for insects? First, the nursery industry tends to select for ornamental plants that are unpalatable to native species (i.e. pest-free species). While this is beneficial aesthetically, these plants provide little to no resources to the urban ecosystem. Second, many non-native (and invasive) species benefit from 'enemy release', whereby insects from the native range are left behind, and insects from the introduced range are less apt to use novel plants. For example, in Europe over 170 insects feed on Phragmites australis, whereas in the U.S. the species supports only 5 insect species. Lastly, phytophagous ('plant eating') insects tend to be specialists. Indeed, over 90% of phytophagous insects are though to specialize on single species or genera. Thus, the introduction of a novel, non-native species or genus is unlikely to support these insects. Tallamy (2004) concludes that non-native plants are likely altering insect species biomass and assemblages, with these impacts cascading up to affect insectivorous animals.
During the last two decades, the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius L.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) resurged into a common urban pest worldwide. Insecticide sprays are commonly used to manage this pest. However, most of the available insecticide sprays registered for bed bugs are not very effective due to insecticide resistance. Bed bugs are considered one of the most difficult urban pests to control. There is strong interest in developing novel and effective materials and methods to combat the widespread bed bug infestations. Isocycloseram is a novel insecticide in the class isoxazoline that shows excellent efficacy and selectivity against invertebrate pests. We evaluated its efficacy against different strains of common bed bugs by exposing bed bugs to dry residue on different surfaces and direct spray. Both isocycloseram formulations (400 SC and 45 SC) are highly effective against bed bugs, with 45 SC causing faster mortality than 400 SC. The 30-day-aged dry residue of 45 SC did not show a significant loss of efficacy. It caused 100% mortality to resistant bed bugs and was much more effective than the five selected commercial insecticides. We conclude isocycloseram is a promising insecticide for controlling the common bed bugs.
Advances in monitoring of indoor pests (sciencedirect.com)
Cockroaches, bed bugs, and commensal rodents are economically and medically important indoor pests. Effective detection of these pests is critical for preventing their establishment, reducing their spread, and quickly eliminating existing activity. Many types of devices have been developed to monitor these pests. They are an essential tool in an integrated pest management program, playing an important role in pest detection and management. Here, we provide an overview of the commonly used monitoring tools and novel technologies that offer effective detection and savings in labor costs.
Sweetpotato pest challenges and management options (academic.oup.com)
Sweetpotatoes, the seventh most important food crop globally, play a crucial role in agriculture due to their starchy, nutrient-rich roots. Their versatility extends beyond human consumption to include animal feed and various industrial applications such as ethanol and biofuel production. In the United States, the Southeast dominates sweetpotato production, with states like Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and North Carolina leading the way. One of the remarkable features of sweet potatoes is their adaptability to tropical and subtropical regions, their resilience to drought, and their ability to thrive in low-fertility soils. These qualities make sweet potatoes well-suited for organic farming. The increasing popularity of organic agriculture aligns with rising consumer demand for organic products, with vegetables like sweet potatoes cultivated on a significant portion of American organic farms. However, sweetpotato crops face threats from plant-parasitic nematodes and insect pests, particularly in the Southeast, where the southern root-knot nematode is a major concern.
To mitigate marine pollution from single-use plastics, it is crucial to transition to next-generation commodity materials that are derived from biomass and are recyclable and marine biodegradable even at abyssal depths in case of the accidental release to the ocean. Here, we develop an optically transparent millimeter-thick paperboard called transparent paperboard (tPB) through dissolution and coagulation of cellulose. The tPB is made entirely of pristine cellulose and compositionally identical to paper. A cup-shaped tPB can hold just-boiled water without an internal film coating because of its high wet tensile properties and anisotropic thermal properties. In addition, the spent tPB is material recyclable in a closed system, where all chemicals and water are also recyclable. Furthermore, the marine biodegradability of tPB across shallow to abyssal depths is confirmed by on-site degradation tests and metagenomic analyses. Hence, tPB is expected to serve as a key fully circular commodity material in sustainable societies of the future.
The MICrONS Project (nature.com)
An unprecedented dataset of high-resolution anatomical images of individual cells in mouse visual cortex, mapped on to their responses. This integrated view of function and structure lays a foundation for discovering the computational bases of cortical circuits.
News
The Sweetest Snack: Research Details Mosquitoes’ Nectar Preferences (entomologytoday.org)
For many, mosquitoes and blood are inextricable. But most of the time—and all the time for male mosquitoes—these insects slide their piercing-sucking mouthparts into a flower rather than a vein, drawing up nectar as their primary food source.
But do mosquitoes have nectar preferences—and how do those predilections and the availability of nectar in the landscape affect the usefulness of baits like attractive targeted sugar baits (ATSBs)?
That’s the question University of Oxford Ph.D. student Eva Herreros-Moya seeks to answer, beginning with a systematic review on nectar preference, published in February in Environmental Entomology, in collaboration with colleagues from the Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine) and the University of Cambridge.
Pest Talks (growertalks.com)
Calibrachoa-nomics
Cultural Foundations
Diseases of Calibrachoa
Bugs of Calibrachoa
2025 Invasive Species & Climate Change Symposium Recap!
Thank you for participating in the Northeast RISCC's 2025 Invasive Species & Climate Change Symposium! The event, held on March 11 and 12, 2025, had 375 participants from 19 U.S. states and Canadian provinces across a wide range of organizations. We hosted contributed presentations for the first time, continued to share our signature blend of practitioner and researcher-led sessions focused on terrestrial and aquatic habitats, and were honored to present the 3rd annual NE RISCC Community Action Award to the Jackson Audubon Society of Jackson, Michigan. If you missed the event or want to watch the presentations again, you can access all recordings here.
Largest ever US honeybee die-off has destroyed 1.6 million colonies (newscientist.com)
“As of right now, it does look like this is going to be the largest colony loss that we’ve experienced in at least the last 25 years – and probably in US history,” says Scott McArt at Cornell University, New York”
Unraveling the Invasion Puzzle: Contrasting Success and Failure in Global Whitefly and Thrips Species (entomologytoday.org)
Invasive species are considered a threat to biodiversity and a growing economic issue worldwide. Despite their substantial ecological and economic harm, the factors that contribute to their success, primarily genetic variation within species, often remain unclear.
To implement appropriate preventative measures against invasive species, it is necessary to understand their genetic identities, as well as their native and invasive ranges. This knowledge is essential for enforcing regulatory measures and effectively managing the spread of invasive species into new regions.
Rising Herbicide Resistance: Researchers Find That No State or Weed is Immune (growiwm.org)
In 2022, when North Dakota farmers began reporting failed kochia burndown in Group 14 herbicides, Dr. Brian Jenks thought there might be a problem. Jenks, a weed scientist at North Dakota State University, began working with fellow NDSU weed scientist Dr. Joe Ikley, other weed scientists, and the National Agricultural Genotyping Center to test for Group 14 resistance in kochia. Their work confirmed the first cases of kochia resistance to Group 14 in the United States, which has now been found in more than half of North Dakota’s counties. “It’s more widespread than we initially thought, we had confirmation in half of North Dakota’s counties.” Ikley commented, “But we tell our growers that not every population in that county is resistant. Moving forward, we are hoping to get a better feel for prevalence within our counties.”
Eats Shoots and Leaves (growiwm.org)
Although pests of flowers crops are not often, some caterpillars keep re-appearing in production. Here are some we see most often in northeast US floriculture
Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest NY is taking the lead on the 2025 Community Gardens Soil Testing Program this year! Partnering with NYSDAM and the Cornell Soil Health Lab, funding is available for soil testing for community and home gardeners, including nutrient analysis and heavy metals testing. We have heard many times that growers desire to learn more about their soil and are excited to be able to support them with this free-soil testing program.
There are two qualifications that must be met for participation: 1) Garden must be a food-producing garden, and 2) The gardener must attest that the food grown in the garden is shared with others (both must be true). The fillable pdf application, attached, can also be found on the Harvest NY website, https://harvestny.cce.cornell.edu/urban-agriculture.php and NYSDAM Community Gardens website, https://agriculture.ny.gov/community-gardens.
Surveys
You may participate in this study if you are a natural resource manager who deals with invasive plants.
We (researchers at the UMass, Amherst) are conducting a research study to understand the link between the timing of life-cycle transitions (phenology) of invasive plants, the timing of chemical and mechanical invasive species control efforts and the efficacy of these interventions. The purpose of this study is to better understand when in the field season different kinds of mechanical and chemical control methods are deployed for specific invasive plants, and whether practitioners have needed to adjust the timing of these interventions in recent years due to shifts in plant phenology brought about by climate change. The survey will take between 15-25 minutes to complete.
You may participate in this study if you are a natural resource manager who deals with invasive plants. Your participation is completely voluntary and no identifying information will be collected. You are free to skip any question that you choose and can stop the survey at any time. If you have any questions about the research prior to taking the survey, please contact the principal investigator, Dr. Bethany Bradley, at bbradley@eco.umass.edu.
Preliminary survey about IPM Identity
Professionals such as you are the only source we have to collect information on this topic and we value your opinions and perspective. Please review the consent information and complete the questionnaire, which will take approximately 10 minutes. If you consent to complete this survey, click the “I AGREE to participate” button to access and complete the survey.
A research team at Cornell University is conducting a survey to understand the many ways farmers are growing and using cereal rye, including for grain, forage, and as a cover crop. Our team is also developing new rye varieties and want to understand important breeding priorities for different end uses. We would like to invite you to take part in a farmer survey as part of this project. We expect the survey to take 5-10 minutes. Participation is voluntary and we appreciate your time and responses.
Navigation: If you exit the survey before completion, you can come back and finish it using the same link you started with. If you finish the survey, you will not be able to retake it again using the same device.
Results: At the end of this project, research results will be shared through presentations, published in peer-reviewed publications, and shared with stakeholders via a white paper and farmer/industry publications. These publications will also be shared on faculty webpages.
You can find the survey here: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0IIMvWYX1Rulio6
Your input needed! National SWD Impact Survey
2024 SWD Impact Survey
Dear Berry and Cherry Growers:
As part of a national team of entomologists studying the management of spotted-wing drosophila (SWD), we are reaching out with a request for assistance to help understand the current impacts of SWD on your farm and how these impacts may have changed in the last 10 years.
If you are willing to share insights from your farm, farms you manage, or growers you work with, please complete this short survey, which will take about 15 minutes or less: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeW6rCcyM9vf_sjLJDj0J_6G03jlVbBLZt5rlX7kmzSj0Ypog/viewform
How will this information be used? This information will be used to develop new research goals as part of a USDA Specialty Crop Research Initiative proposal under development. It will also be compared to information collected in similar surveys in 2013 and 2014 to help us understand where challenges still exist for SWD management and what improvements have been made over the last 10 years and shared in extension and scholarly publications.
Invasion Risk Assessment Study
Study Overview:
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:
Submissions needed
Previously featured
Norway rat and house mouse samples needed for rodenticide resistance study
The Urban Entomology Lab from the Department of Entomology at Rutgers University is conducting research on rodenticide resistance in Norway rats and house mice in the northeastern U.S. with a focus on rodents from NJ, NY, and PA. Currently, we found 90% of the 80 house mouse samples carried at least one genetic mutation related to rodenticide resistance. We also examined over 20 samples of rats, and 45% of them carried mutation genes. We are looking for more Norway rat and house mice samples. If you can provide rodent samples, please contact Jin-Jia Yu at Rutgers University for more details. Email: jinjia.yu@rutgers.edu
You're Invited: Present ?at the 2025 Invasive Species Expo!
We are excited to invite you to submit a presentation abstract for the 3rd biennial New York State Invasive Species Expo, to be held September 14th-16th, 2025 at Saratoga Spa State Park. The expo is an event that features creative, interactive, and hands-on experiences in addition to classic presentations and posters. We are looking for content exploring the ABC's of Invasive Species: Advance Actions, Bridge Boundaries, and Connect Community.
We are seeking:
- Traditional presentations
- Hands-on workshops
- Interactive demonstrations
- Poster presentations (Students welcome!)
- Local field trips
- Creative walk & talks
- ...and any other unique ideas you have for expo content!
Accepted content will be delivered at the Expo, either at the public-facing Community Conservation Day on Sunday Sep 14th, or the Expo Professional Days on September 15-16. There are indoor and outdoor spaces available for presentations and workshops. Abstract submissions are due April 30th. Presenters will be notified via email of abstract status by June 30th. Note: Due to constraints within the abstract submission form, only one abstract can be submitted per attendee. If you would like to submit multiple abstracts, please have co-presenters submit under their profile, or contact us at is.summit@dec.ny.gov. There is no limit to the number of abstract submissions, and we encourage presenters to explore multiple types of content! For more information, please visit the Expo webpage at https://nyis.info/new-york-invasive-species-expo/. If you have any questions related to submitting an abstract, please email is.summit@dec.ny.gov.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) news and updates
Newly featured this issue
Avian flu in raw milk found to be broadly sensitive to heat
In March 2024, when the first cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza were identified in dairy cows in Texas, Cornell researchers – led by Diego Diel, associate professor of virology in the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) – immediately began assessing how long the virus survived in the raw milk of infected cows.
At the same time, Nicole Martin, assistant research professor of food science and director of the Milk Quality Improvement Program in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), started getting calls and messages from dairy industry manufacturers worried about food safety.
Previously featured
A new online Avian Flu Resource Center provides reliable and accessible information for members of the general public, farmers, wildlife professionals, state and public health agency partners, and veterinarians.
Frequently asked questions about bird flu in New York state
Cornell Cooperative Extension’s response to the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza response in New York state is a coordinated effort of the NY Extension Disaster Education Network (NY EDEN).
CCE educators and specialists can reach out to Amy Barkley, livestock and beginning farm specialist with the SWNY Dairy, Livestock, and Field Crops Program at (amb544@cornell.edu) or (716) 640-0844 for more information and/or to suggest additions to the FAQ.
For information on HPAI in dairy cattle, you can visit the CALS website.
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation reporting form for wild bird mortalities, https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/dee381c0ee8a4114a83dc1892fc0f7ed
Positive cases in commercial and backyard poultry: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/commercial-backyard-flocks
Positive cases in wild birds: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/wild-birds
NYS Ag and Markets also updates their website to share positive avian cases in NYS. This is also a landing page to see any restriction for things like import/export, shows, sales, etc. https://agriculture.ny.gov/animals/poultry
USDA-APHIS also updates in detections in mammals and livestock, and you can find those links here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections
Webinars, seminars, meetings, and more
Newly featured this issue
Getting Started on the RIGHT Foot with Saffron
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 9th annual workshop on Saffron on Thursday May 8, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time. The event will be held online and recorded for all registrants. There are presentations for both beginning and experienced growers.
Growers and researchers from the US and Spain will share their knowledge about growing, fertilization, intercropping, selling this precious crop and the economics of production. Registration is $60. To learn more about the workshop and register, go to:
https:// https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/index.php?eventid=837320&
Questions? Contact: Margaret Skinner Tel: 1-802-656-5440; Email: mskinner@uvm.edu
In this webinar, Dr. Joji Muramoto, Cooperative Extension Specialist with the University of California at Santa Cruz, will discuss the history of soil-borne disease management in California strawberries and contrast it with a history of arthropod pest management to illustrate challenges associated with soil-borne disease management and the future directions of soil health research and soil-borne disease management.
April 30, 2025 06:00 PM EST
UC IPM's Urban & Community Webinar Series
Join us at noon on the third Thursday of every month to learn about pest identification, prevention, and management around the home, garden, and landscape. This series is free and open to the public but advance registration is required.
- April 17: Myth or Fact?: Debunking Pest Myths
- May 15: Understanding How Herbicides Work
- June 18: Cover, Smash, Trap: Non-chemical Methods for Pest Management
- July 17: Wild World of Wasps!
In a webinar sponsored by Xcluder, rodent control expert Matt Frye will discuss the critical role exclusion plays in preventing pest problems and improving pest management strategies. Frye will delve into the biology and behavior of mice and rats, providing a foundational understanding of where and when to implement exclusion tactics. He’ll discuss the importance of viewing structures from a rodent's perspective and how this can help identify rodent-vulnerable areas. Frye also will review products and technology PMPs can deploy for their exclusion services.
April 23, 2025 01:00 PM in EST
Webinar: Spotted Lanternfly in North America
Join us for an insightful webinar featuring a panel of experts discussing the spotted lanternfly invasion in North America. Learn about the biology and management of this invasive pest, debunk common myths, and gain updates on how human-mediated transport is driving its spread. Experts will also share the latest findings on cold tolerance thresholds and their role in assessing the risk of northward expansion. Additionally, discover how Washington is preparing for the spotted lanternfly invasion and its potential impacts, including threats to cultural resources.
Speakers:
Julie Urban, Penn State University
Tracy Leskey, USDA-ARS
Amanda Roe, Natural Resources Canada
Jessica La Belle, Washington Invasive Species Council
April 16, 2025
1:00PM CDT – 2:30PM CDT
Previously featured
Invasive Species Spotters Kickoff Webinar
Join LIISMA at a webinar kicking off our new volunteer program - Invasive Species Spotters - on May 7, at 1:00 - 2:30 pm! This training webinar is designed to teach professionals and community members to identify priority invasive species in the region.
Participants will learn to identify 10 priority invasive plants new to LIISMA and how to report them using iMapInvasives. Then, members will work independently this summer and beyond to survey around Long Island, Staten Island, Brooklyn, and Queens for these priority species.
This program is great for those looking to learn something new and make a difference. Register to reserve your spot today!
Weed Control in Horse Pastures
Discover effective strategies for managing weeds in horse pastures without immediately reaching for herbicides. While some weed presence is natural, excessive growth can disrupt pasture health and productivity. This webinar will equip you with the knowledge to assess weed issues, explore non-chemical management options, and determine when, if ever, herbicides are necessary. Empower yourself to make informed decisions that support both your horses and your land.
Register By: April 24, 2025
This event is free of charge.
Cover Crop & Soil Health Field Day
You’re invited to a Cover Crop & Soil Health Field Day from 2-5pm on Thursday, April 24! Features will include new cover crop breeding material, the first National Cover Crop Variety Trials, cover crop decision support tools, cover crop root research demonstrations, and soil health demonstrations. You may RSVP at www.covercropbreeding.com/events to help us plan...but walk-ins are welcome! Sponsored by the Cover Crop Breeding Network, Cornell CALS, Center for Regenerative Agriculture at University of Missouri, and NY Soil Health. Free & open to the public!
Apr 24, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT
Freeville, 133 Fall Creek Rd, Freeville, NY 13068, USA
CERTIFIED TREE STEWARD TRAINING 2025
April 22, 2025; April 23, 2025; April 25, 2025; April 28, 2025; April 30, 2025; May 2, 2025
The Tree Steward Program is a comprehensive workshop dealing with arboriculture. Through both classroom learning and outdoor exercises, the participants will learn all about tree biology, identification, pruning, planting, rigging and much more. Personal protection as well as tree protection will be emphasized.
Flyer and registration: 2025 Westchester County Tree Steward Training
Spongy Moth: Managing a Tree-Devastating Pest
The spongy moth (formerly known as the gypsy moth) poses a significant threat to our shade trees, with recent resurgences reported in some areas. These caterpillars feed voraciously on tree foliage, and during peak activity, their falling droppings can even mimic the sound of rainfall!
In this program, we’ll explore how to identify this pest, understand its life cycle, and assess the damage it can cause. We’ll place particular emphasis on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, as well as pesticide treatments, to help manage these pests effectively using environmentally friendly approaches. We’ll also talk about the natural biocontrols that can help manage future outbreaks.
Thursday, June 5, 2025, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM *Zoom*
DEC Credits: 1 credit in 3a, 25, 6a and 9
ISA Credits: Available upon agency approval
Flyer: spongy moth
Register: Webinar Registration - Zoom
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.
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
Newly featured this issue
Regional Coordinator (Director) of North Central SARE
Collaborating closely with researchers, producers, regional farming innovators, and our committed staff, the Regional Coordinator (Director) will guide the highly impactful NCR-SARE program.
The Regional Coordinator (Director) of North Central SARE supports organizational personnel, develops positive external relationships, oversees the budget and budgeting process, leads administrative and outreach activities management, and facilitates strategic planning about programs, policies, and procedures.
The North Central SARE Regional Coordinator (Director) position is preferred to be a 12-month, 1.0 FTE position located on the University of Minnesota's Saint Paul campus. Remote work may be possible following the University of Minnesota’s remote work policy and is contingent on the candidate’s needs and requirements.
The North Central SARE Regional Coordinator (Director) may hold an adjunct faculty appointment at a rank appropriate to the candidate’s background and experience in a department aligned with their scholarship. This full-time position has a robust benefits package.
Applications must be submitted online at http://employment.umn.edu/ (search for Job Opening 367558). To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.
Required application materials include a curriculum vitae or resume. A cover letter detailing your experience writing and reviewing grant proposals is also highly recommended.
Application deadline will be April 25, 2025.
https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/367558
The Tifft Nature Preserve Ranger’s primary responsibility is to maintain a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for guests, staff, and other patrons and ensure the security of BSNS property and facilities. The individual in this position will monitor Tifft Nature Preserve on-site through routine patrols of the property on foot and in a BSNS provided utility cart in a variety of weather conditions while being a resource of information for Tifft’s visitors. The Ranger will also assist with trail and grounds maintenance. This position will be scheduled Thursday – Monday, 37.5 hours per week, with holidays as scheduled, shifts to change seasonally. Summer hours for this position are 12pm-8pm.
Note: this position is unarmed and is not a sworn law enforcement officer
Ecological Restoration Assistant
The Ecological Restoration Assistant will assist staff and work with volunteers to implement a grant-funded ecological renovation of Tifft’s East Canal. This multi-faceted position requires a passionate and motivated individual who has an interest in ecology and values the living environment. The successful candidate will take joy in performing physical labor outdoors on varied terrain in all weather conditions. The Ecological Restoration Assistant is a summer position that is scheduled to accommodate the academic calendar of most local higher ed institutions. This position is seasonal with a start date of 5/28/2025 and end date of 8/19/2025.
Tifft Discovery Camp Counselor
The Tifft Discovery Camp Counselors provide oversight of campers enrolled in Tifft Nature Preserve’s
Summer Discovery Camp programs. Counselors will work collaboratively with the Camp Director,
Facilitators of Learning, Volunteers, and other Counselors to provide memorable and engaging
experiences and a safe and fun summer for all campers. This position requires a friendly and positive
individual who is energized by working with children ages 3 – 10. Ideal candidates will possess an
interest in nature and enjoy being outdoors. The ability to be adaptable, proactive, and problem-solve
is also key. To maintain a safe environment, the Discovery Camp Counselors will understand and
adhere to the Department of Health Children’s Camp and other camp guidelines at all times
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University of Maryland College Park
The IT Coordinator supports all aspects of computer and technical support in the Department of Veterinary Medicine. The IT Coordinator responds to requests for service on all UM computers and peripherals; sets up and records when needed video conferences; installs and troubleshoots hardware and software issues; sets up and manages user accounts, user groups, shared drives, folders and calendars. Works with faculty and Executive Coordinator to add content to and maintain the department web page. Maintains database of all AV/IT capital equipment plus full inventory of all UM tagged inventory (computers, screens, peripherals) and purchases new software and equipment as needed. As the Systems Administrator, the IT Coordinator maintains all user accounts and performs regular virus scans and data backups. The coordinator also stays up to date with technological changes by attending classes, workshops and webinars annually. Performs other duties as they are assigned and needed.
Extension Educator II - Turf Landscape (Hybrid Opportunity)
The Turf and Landscape Educator II will be an integral part of UMass Extension’s Commercial Horticulture group, supporting the development and implementation of educational resources and programming; including organization, presentation, and delivery of relevant research-based information to meet the needs of horticultural stakeholders statewide, with the enhancement of economic, human, and environmental health and sustainability of relevant industries as priorities. This position will support and deliver turf and landscape management and cross-commodity programming in collaboration with Extension staff and faculty, and other internal and external collaborators.
Coordinator, Nutrient Management Advisor
University of Maryland Extension (UME) Agriculture and Food Systems (AgFS) Program seeks candidates for a 12-month Agricultural Nutrient Management Program (ANMP) Nutrient Management Advisor. ANMP Nutrient Management Advisors develop nutrient management plans for agricultural producers to balance nutrient inputs with crop requirements, thus optimizing production potential, improving farm profitability, reducing excess nutrient inputs into the Chesapeake Bay and enabling producers to comply with the State of Maryland’s Water Quality Improvement Act of 1998.
Agent (Extension Specialist – Entomology in Ornamental Horticulture IPM)
University of Maryland Extension (UME) invites applications for a 12-month tenure-track position at the Agent or Senior Agent level to conduct applied research, provide educational programming, and offer entomology expertise in integrated pest management (IPM) in the commercial ornamental horticulture industries and UME personnel throughout Maryland. Specifically, the Extension Specialist will provide IPM leadership in entomology and delivery of educational programming in insect pest management to Maryland’s green industries including nursery, greenhouse, cut flower, arboriculture, Christmas tree, and landscape maintenance industries. The Extension Specialist will be expected to respond to a broad set of entomology needs within ornamental horticulture production and maintenance including delivery of information on IPM, biological insect management, evaluation of novel insecticide delivery options, monitoring and disseminating information on emerging pests, and other topics.
University of Maryland College Park
The position will be responsible for providing administrative support to the academic programs’ unit (graduate and undergraduate.) Graduate Program support will involve communicating with graduate constituents both internal and external; administrating the graduate program including admissions, communicating with and advising students, maintaining records, keeping up-to-date on changes that impact both programs, assisting with recruitment by coordinating advertising and meeting with prospective undergraduate and graduate students and giving tours, planning, executing and running departmental and recruiting events such as the Graduate Student Review Day and the Annual Symposium, and maintaining the graduate program website. Undergraduate Program Support will involve serving as the departmental scheduling officer for classrooms and courses, assisting with advising and recruitment activities, coordinating online course evaluations, assisting with new student orientations, and preparing administrative paperwork for both programs.
Agent Associate - Home Horticulture Educator & Master Gardener Coordinator
University of Maryland College Park
The Home Horticulture Educator and Master Gardener Coordinator is a part-time (.6 FTE - 24 hours per week) position that will work in support of the Baltimore City Home Horticulture Extension Program, which falls under UME’s Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) program area. The mission of ENR is to strengthen and improve individuals’ knowledge, skills and aspirations to make changes in their lives and the lives of others that positively affect the economy, the environment and the associated natural resources for current and future generations. The Educator will support the ENR programmatic area by educating the public on the research-based best practices regarding home and non-commercial horticulture.
Director Administrative Services
University of Maryland College Park
Provide financial oversight for the department to include administration of the state, revolving, and research budgets, presently totaling approximately $6.2 M; prepare and administer memoranda of understanding with various federal and state agencies; administer faculty grant funding accounts and provide account balance updates to each faculty at regular intervals. Managing the departmental budgets and ensuring the financial integrity of the department. Maintain long-term financial plan and projections for the department. Oversee administrative functions to ensure efficient and consistent operations. Assist faculty in preparing grant proposals, including a review of proposed budgets, cost-share justifications, and routing forms. Supervise support personnel to fulfill budgetary, computer hardware/software, word processing, office logistics, travel, personnel, and secretarial needs for the faculty, staff, and students.
Maryland SNAP-Ed Agent Associate - Prince George's County Nutrition Educator and Project Leader
The Nutrition Educator and Project Leader will deliver SNAP-Ed programs that encourage a
nutritious and active lifestyle through increased food access, drinking more water, and
promoting physical activity to low-income residents in Prince George's County with emphasis on
reaching SNAP recipients. SNAP-Ed's goal is to provide comprehensive programs that consist of
nutrition education lessons, indirect education and policy, system and environmental-level
changes at partnering sites.
Maryland SNAP-Ed Agent Associate - Garrett County Nutrition Educator and Project Leader
The Nutrition Educator and Project Leader will deliver SNAP-Ed programs that encourage a nutritious and active lifestyle through increased food access, drinking more water, and promoting physical activity to low-income residents in Garrett County with emphasis on reaching SNAP recipients. SNAP-Ed's goal is to provide comprehensive programs that consist of nutrition education lessons, indirect education and policy, system and environmental-level changes at partnering sites.
The Department of Environmental Science & Technology (ENST) at the University of Maryland, College Park, MD, (UMD) is pleased to offer three Postdoctoral Associate positions.
Two of the Postdoctoral Associate positions will be led by Dr. Stephanie Lansing. One position will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team that is developing an app for food diversion and will oversee adding greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions values for diversion strategies. The second will work with a team on food waste and grass co-digestion at the county-level and oversee a life cycle assessment (LCA) of food waste and yard waste diversion. For more information and to apply please click on the following link: (2) Post-Doctoral-Associate Positions_JR100632
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.
Funding Opportunities
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The North Central Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Center has approximately $360,000 of funding available for 2025 projects. Projects must focus on integrated pest management and may involve Critical Issue research, Working Group collaborations, or IPM Partnerships. Applicants may request a maximum of $30,000 per project. More details are available on the North Central IPM Center website. Applications are due on Monday, April 21, 2025 at 6 pm ET (5 pm CT). Funding for selected projects will be awarded in May of 2025. Funding of these projects supports the North Central IPM Center’s mission to improve the health, environment and economic conditions in the North Central region while using IPM to address pest-related challenges.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Poultry Innovation Grand Challenge Funding Opportunity USDA Invests $100 Million to Combat Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
USDA has announced plans for a funding opportunity to explore prevention, therapeutics, research and potential vaccine candidates to fight highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). USDA will invest up to $100 million in these projects.
Funding is available, through a competitive process, to for-profit organizations, including manufacturers of vaccines, biologics, and therapeutics, states, universities, livestock producer organizations and other eligible entities. USDA will prioritize proposals that address one or more of the following:
- Development of novel therapeutics and improved diagnostics to address HPAI in poultry.
- Research to further understand risk pathways of avian influenza for producers and to inform improved biosecurity and response strategies. Development of novel vaccines to protect poultry from HPAI while promoting biosecurity.
- The notice of funding opportunity, including application instructions and additional information, is available on the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website. Applicants can also find information on the ezFedGrants website or Grants.gov by searching USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSP0000-25-0015. Deadline to apply is May 19.