IPM News and Events Roundup 04/19/2024
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
Each year, through a competitive request-for-applications (RFA) process, the Center’s IPM Partnership Grants Program distributes funding to projects that further the mission of the Center, address or identify IPM priorities for the Northeast, and benefit the region at large.
Each funded project falls under one of three categories: applied research, communications, and working groups.
This Year’s Funded Projects by Category
Applied Research
- An Ecosystem Services Framework to Improve Economic and Environmental Outcomes of Cattle Pest Fly IPM (Bryony Sands, PhD | Postdoctoral Research Fellow | University of Vermont)
- Distribution and Frequency of Anticoagulant Rodenticide Resistance Among Commensal Rodents in the Northeastern U.S. (Changlu Wang, PhD | Extension Specialist in Entomology | Rutgers University)
Communications
- Protecting Endangered Species and Pollinators: Communicating Recent Changes in Pesticide Regulation (Niranjana Krishnan, PhD | Assistant Professor and Maryland Pesticide Safety Education Program Coordinator | University of Maryland)
Working Groups
- Continued Next-Generation Support for the Northeast Tree Fruit IPM Working Group (Terence Bradshaw, PhD | Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Plant and Soil Science | University of Vermont)
To learn more about these projects, visit https://www.northeastipm.org/about-us/publications/ipm-insights/northeastern-ipm-center-announces-recipients-of-2024-partnership-grants/.
About the Partnership Grants Program
The Center typically releases its annual Partnership Grants RFA sometime in the fall. Stay tuned for further details. To learn more about the IPM Partnership Grants Program, visit https://neipmc.org/go/bfgs.
The Biology and Management of Common Invasive Plants in the Northeastern U.S. and Southern Canada with Dr. Antonio DiTommaso Recorded February 27, 2024
This presentation focused on the biology and management (both chemical and non-chemical) of ten common invasive plants in the northeastern United States and southern Canada. Species covered include Japanese knotweed, buckthorn, swallowworts, honeysuckles, bindweeds, multiflora rose, and Japanese stiltgrass.
The Use of IPM in Beekeeping to Control Parasitic Varroa Mites with Dr. Robyn Underwood Recorded March 11, 2024
During this talk, you will learn about the parts of the IPM pyramid as they relate to controlling the parasitic varroa mite, widely the biggest problem in beekeeping. You will learn about breeding for mite resistance, cultural and mechanical controls, and chemical controls that are both organic-approved and synthetic. These items will be presented as a year in the life of a beekeeping operation.
Kosher, Halal and Insects: How do they relate? with Dr. Joe Regenstein Recorded March 25, 2024
Kosher and halal food regulations are an important part of the food industry. Both religious systems are concerned about the practices of modern agriculture including the role of insects and similar animal species. This talk will introduce these dietary laws and then look specifically at how each religion views insects in the food and feed context.
Reducing Synthetic Chemical Use to Optimize Pest Management and Crop Production: A case study of onion thrips in onion with Dr. Brian Nault Recorded April 11, 2024
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.
EPA / FDA / USDA News
Dicamba Products: Information Regarding Sale, Distribution, and Use of XtendiMax, Engenia, and Tavium in New York State
Due to a U.S. District Court Decision, as of February 6, 2024, the Dicamba products listed below are no longer registered under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA):
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XtendiMax® with VaporGrip® Technology |
EPA Reg. No. 264-1210 |
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Engenia® Herbicide |
EPA Reg. No. 7969-472 |
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Tavium® Plus VaporGrip® Technology |
EPA Reg. No. 100-1623 |
Since these pesticides are no longer registered under FIFRA, they are illegal to sell, distribute, or use except as described in United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Existing Stocks Order. This Existing Stocks Order authorizes the limited sale, distribution, and use of existing stocks that were in the U.S. and were packaged, labeled, and released for shipment prior to February 6, 2024.
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In New York State, existing stocks of these three products may only be sold, distributed, and used according to the previously-approved labels until the dates specified below:
- Sale and Distribution of XtendiMax, Engenia, or Tavium for Use on Dicamba-Tolerant Soybean until May 31, 2024
- Use of XtendiMax, Engenia, or Tavium on Dicamba-Tolerant Soybean until June 30, 2024
These products will remain registered in discontinued status by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) to allow for disposal in accordance with federal, state, and local waste requirements or return to the pesticide registrant until July 31, 2024. CleanSweepNY may be able to assist agricultural establishments and businesses with the disposal of these products.
To check the registration status of pesticide products in New York, you can use DEC’s product database, NYSPAD.
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EPA Publishes Update on Herbicide Strategy Progress
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing an update to its draft Herbicide Strategy, which is part of the Agency’s plan to improve how it meets its Endangered Species Act (ESA) obligations. The purpose of this update is to describe some improvements that EPA plans to make as it continues finalizing the strategy to increase flexibility and improve ease of implementation while still protecting federally listed species. The Agency expects to publish the final strategy in August 2024.
The draft strategy, which EPA released for public comments in July 2023, describes whether, how much, and where mitigations may be needed to protect listed species from agricultural uses of conventional herbicides. The goal is for EPA to use the strategy to proactively determine mitigations for registration and registration review actions for herbicides even before EPA, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) formally complete the lengthy ESA determination on whether an herbicide has effects on a listed species. By adopting these early mitigations, EPA can begin protecting listed species while FWS and NMFS are making their ESA determinations.
The strategy itself does not impose any requirements or restrictions on pesticide use. Rather, EPA will use the strategy to inform mitigations for new active ingredient registrations and registration review of conventional herbicides. Thus, for any herbicide, mitigations from the strategy will not become effective until EPA adopts labels (following public comment) for that herbicide as part of a new active ingredient registration or registration review decision.
EPA received extensive comments on the draft strategy, with many reiterating the importance of protecting listed species from herbicides. Commenters also identified concerns with specific aspects of the draft strategy and suggested revisions. EPA plans to make a number of improvements to the draft based on this feedback, with the primary changes falling into three categories.
- Making the strategy easier to understand. Many commenters noted the complexity of the strategy to determine the amount of mitigation a label requires for a particular pesticide—up to nine points of mitigation. In response, EPA is simplifying its approach, such as by using four tiers—none, low, medium, high—to describe the amount of mitigation that may be needed for each herbicide. EPA also plans to create educational materials that concisely explain the four-tier mitigation approach.
- Increasing flexibility for growers to implement the mitigation measures in the strategy. EPA expects to expand its mitigation measures, especially for specialty crops such as cherries and mint, to include new measures such as erosion barriers, reservoir tillage, and soil carbon amendments. EPA is also working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other organizations to identify other measures to add to the mitigation menu that can reduce pesticide runoff and erosion. In May 2024, for example, the EPA and USDA will host a workshop with agricultural stakeholders to identify other possible measures to add to the menu.
- Reducing the amount of mitigation that may be needed when growers have already adopted voluntary practices to reduce pesticide runoff or where runoff potential is lower due to geography. For example, in areas of the country with flat lands or minimal precipitation where runoff potential is low, growers may need less or no additional measures to use agricultural herbicides, compared to what is currently in the draft strategy. EPA is also considering whether growers could meet any necessary mitigation requirements if they participate in agricultural conservation programs or work with qualified experts to design and implement mitigation measures.
In addition to these types of improvements, EPA is also working on other changes to the Herbicide Strategy and how it is implemented. For many listed species, the maps used in the draft strategy for determining where mitigation measures would apply are often too broad, covering areas not needed to conserve the species. EPA is working with FWS and others to develop a process for refining maps for hundreds of species. This process could then be used by applicants for registration actions and by others to produce draft maps for the agencies to consider. Through this work, EPA expects that the land area subject to the pesticide restrictions under the final strategy could shrink for many species.
EPA appreciates the thoughtful perspectives from multiple stakeholders on the draft strategy and other ESA efforts. EPA continues to consider the public comments, meet with stakeholders, and collaborate with FWS, USDA, and state agencies. EPA expects to publish the final strategy by August 30, 2024.
The full update, along with additional details regarding the strategy, are available in the public docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2023-0365 at www.regulations.gov, and on EPA’s website.
A field study was conducted from 2020 to 2023 at Kansas State University Agricultural Research Center near Hays, KS, to understand the emergence dynamics and periodicity of glyphosate-resistant (GR) Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson) as influenced by cover crop (CC) residue and residual herbicide in grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. The study site was under a wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–sorghum–fallow rotation with a natural seedbank of GR A. palmeri. Treatments included (1) fall-planted CC mixture [winter triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm. ex A. Camus [Secale × Triticum])/winter peas (Pisum sativum L.)/rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)/radish (Raphanus sativus L.)] after wheat harvest and terminated at triticale heading stage (next spring before sorghum planting) with glyphosate alone or (2) glyphosate plus acetochlor/atrazine, (3) chemical fallow (no CC but treated with acetochlor/atrazine and dicamba before sorghum planting), and (4) nontreated control (no CC and no herbicide).
Investigating the Effects of Temperature on Pathogen Propagation in Arabidopsis (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Temperature is one of the most prominent environmental factors that influence plant immunity. Depending on the plant-pathogen system, increased temperature may inhibit or enhance disease resistance or immunity in plants. Measuring the effect of temperature on plant immunity is the first step toward revealing climate effects on plant-pathogen interactions and molecular regulators of temperature sensitivity of plant immunity. Quantification of plant disease resistance or susceptibility under different temperatures can be accomplished by assessing pathogen growth over time in infected plants or tissues. Here, we present a protocol for quantifying pathogen growth in the most studied system of Arabidopsis thaliana and Pseudomonas syringae pathovar tomato (Pst) DC3000. We discuss important factors to consider for assaying pathogen growth in plants under different temperatures. This protocol can be used to assess temperature sensitivity of resistance in different plant genotypes and to various pathovars.
Measuring factors affecting honey bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) attraction to soybeans using bioacoustics monitoring (academic.oup.com)
Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is an important agricultural crop around the world, and previous studies suggest that honey bees (Apis mellifera Linnaeus) can be a component for optimizing soybean production through pollination. Determining when bees are present in soybean fields is critical for assessing pollination activity and identifying periods when bees are absent so that bee-toxic pesticides may be applied. There are currently several methods for detecting pollinator activity, but these existing methods have substantial limitations, including the bias of pan trappings against large bees and the limited duration of observation possible using manual techniques. This study aimed to develop a new method for detecting honey bees in soybean fields using bioacoustics monitoring.
Recognizing feeding injury to corn ears in the United States (academic.oup.com)
Corn is one of the major commodities in the United States, and is grown for fuel, feed, and food around the world. Much of the production is centered in the Midwest, but corn is grown throughout the country and has a national production value of $91.7 billion. Because of the substantial national economic impact of corn production, as well as the profitability of individual farming operations, crop protection from pests is critical. Corn is most vulnerable during ear and kernel formation, and pest infestations during this time can have a substantial impact on grain quality and yield. Detecting pests is one of the most important components of integrated pest management, and regular scouting can allow farmers to make timely management decisions for pests in corn. However, farmers and crop consultants sometimes do not notice ear-feeding pests of corn until the fall, or near harvest, when pests are nearly done feeding or have vacated the ear.
Integrated parasite management (IPM) and the pasture ecosystem: Optimizing outcomes for cattle, insect biodiversity, and soil health (sciencedirect.com)
Highlights
- Rotational grazing reduced cattle gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) parasites.
- Parasitoid wasp biological control may suppress pest flies.
- Beneficial pasture insects correlated with reduced pest flies and GIN parasites.
- Conventional parasiticides and grazing strategy affected beneficial pasture insects.
- Grazing management and beneficial pasture insects influenced soil health.
Join us to honor and celebrate our remarkable planet on this extraordinary day. Earth Day is a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability, encouraging us to come together and take action for a healthier planet and brighter future.
Through various events, toolkits, and initiatives, we aim to raise awareness, inspire change, and foster a deeper connection with nature. Let's unite in our efforts to protect the Earth today and for generations to come. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and create a more sustainable world.
The PlayCleanGo® Stop Invasive Species In Your Tracks® campaign works tirelessly to prevent the detrimental effects of invasive species to North America’s lands and waters. Through partnerships with other environmental and recreational organizations, clear messaging and community-based social outreach, we raise awareness of how and why thousands of invasive species are spread every year. To stop the spread, we provide educational resources to help instill a stewardship ethic across the diverse communities and landscapes of North America.
Drones Take to the Sky, and They’re Altering Farming and Growing Food Forever (bdtonline.com | April 12, 2024)
The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) estimates that between 1.6 and 1.8 million small unmanned aerial vehicles (sUAVs) will be registered for recreational use by the end of 2024. Thanks to their advanced technology and extensive use in various industries, the United States leads the worldwide market for drones.
Another Historic “Forever Chemicals” Drinking Water Settlement Announced by Taft and Lawyers Leading PFAS Litigation (pfasinsights.com | April 15, 2024)
The coalition of law firms, including Taft, that have been working together for over a decade to lead litigation and secure settlements on behalf of those harmed by PFAS contamination, have announced another major settlement to address this “forever chemicals” contamination in U.S. drinking water supplies in the context of the ongoing multi-district litigation to address claims for damage from PFAS released from aqueous film-forming firefighting foam (the AFFF MDL). This latest settlement, reached with Tyco Fire Products LP (Tyco), a wholly-owned, indirect subsidiary of Johnson Controls, will provide an additional $750 million in settlement benefits, adding to the earlier announced settlements with 3M and DuPont-related companies, valued at up to over $13.5 billion for U.S. drinking water providers. Read more here.
After the Volts: Is Weed Electrocution Safe for the Soil? (growiwm.org | April 9, 2024)
We know getting zapped with high voltages of electricity can be a deadly affair for weeds, which has made weed electrocution a promising area of study and experimentation for researchers and farmers alike.
But what do those waves of electrical power do to the innocent bystanders of the crop fields – the earthworms, microbes and tiny insects that call the soil under our feet home?
Well, not too much, according to preliminary results from an assortment of research trials on weed electrocution happening across the United States.
e-Gro Electronic Grower Resources Online
- Do microgreens respond to daily light integral and carbon dioxide enrichment?
- The U.S. Market for Salad Mixes
- eGRO Blog Resource Spotlight: Produce Safety in Hydroponic and Aquaponic Operations
Some Spring Insect Pests to Keep in Mind (extension.psu.edu)
A spring progresses, some insect pests will become active soon. Now it is a good time to plan your scouting efforts.
Is it Poison Hemlock or Wild Chervil? (extension.psu.edu)
Poison hemlock and wild chervil look very similar and resume growth early in the spring. Learn more about these look-a-like weeds.
Call for Volunteers!
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.
NYISAW Call For Events!
It's that time of year again - planning for NYISAW (New York Invasive Species Awareness Week)! Come join us in a statewide invasive species extravaganza from June 3rd to June 9th as we all work to bring invasive species education to people across the FLX.
Last year our scheduled programs ranged from everything between invasive snail pulls to spotted lanternfly scouting. With a focus on growth and improvement, our aim is to make NYISAW 2024 even more successful and memorable than before! If you would like discuss the logistics of creating and hosting a program - please let us know. We can help plan, host, and promote your invasive species event.
Additionally, we can provide resources and giveaways for your event that are catered to your program. As a partner of the NYISAW campaign, you will include the NYISAW and Finger Lakes PRISM logos on all marketing materials, acknowledge sponsorship from Finger Lakes PRISM in communications; post pictures of the program to share in our post-event marketing, and complete a post-ISAW survey that would include number of participants and feedback.
What do you need from me?
Send the following to gallo@hws.edu by Friday, May 17th. Email us with “NYISAW Event Submission” in the email subject line, and include the following information:
- Event title
- Event description
- Registration information
- Event time
- Event location, address, including town/city and zip code
- Event contact and email address
If you have marketing material such as a flyer already developed, send that along and we will put this on our website and calendar.
What kinds of events have been done before?
Examples of events:
- Plant pulls / native plantings
- Volunteer survey and data entry into the iMapInvasives
- Interpretive hikes or paddles
- Boat tours / floating classrooms
- Public presentations and exhibits
- Ask-an-Expert displays at farmer’s markets and visitor, welcome and nature centers
- Invasive species movie screenings
- Other kinds of awareness activities, such as signage on marquees or book displays
Please let us know if you have any questions. Here’s hoping to a great NYISAW!
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
Surveys
Newly featured this issue
We are inviting you to participate in the 2024 Agritourism Survey. We aim to identify what forms of support (i.e., business support, grants, etc.) your agritourism business can access and what challenges you face (i.e., zoning, liability, lack of support). This survey will take 15 minutes to complete.
We ask that the individual responsible for agritourism decision-making completes the survey.
We created this survey in response to requests from agritourism operators across the U.S. We will compile the results and share them with the public, empowering you to improve your grant applications, seek assistance, and influence policy-making.
Participation is voluntary. You may refrain from answering any question or withdraw at any point in time. Your privacy is important to us! All survey responses will be confidential. After the research is finished, the data will be destroyed. All information will be grouped and reported as aggregated data. If you have any questions, concerns, or complaints about the research or feel you have been harmed by taking part in the study, feel free to contact Claudia Schmidt at cschmidt@psu.edu. For questions about your rights as a participant, you may contact Penn State University’s Office of Research Protections at (814) 865-1775 or IRB-ORP@psu.edu
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
Marine and Coastal Invasives in a Changing Climate: Virtual Networking
April 30, 2024
Remote via Zoom
12:00pm - 1:15pm (ET)
We are excited to create a virtual space for you to connect informally with fellow practitioners and researchers to discuss your work around marine and coastal invasive species in a changing climate. Those working with any taxa and ecosystem are welcome!
This Zoom event is co-hosted by Mass ECAN (Ecosystem Climate Adaptation Network) and the Northeast Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change (RISCC) Management Network.
Register here!
Bed Bug Prevention and Management with a Focus on Multifamily Housing In Environmental Justice Communities
The common bed bug is an obligatory pest of humans, feeding on blood and causing itchy bites and generally irritating people within infested homes. Bed bugs are a public health pest, but unlike most public health pests they do not transmit or spread disease. Bed bugs though are repulsive to people and may result in serious lack of proper sleep and severe mental anguish and anxiety.
Since the late 1990’s there has been a resurgence of bed bugs over the world, and this pest continues to plague homeowners and renters today. Bed bugs are particularly a problem in multifamily housing, and infestations may at times impact people more who live in environmental justice communities due to their reduced affordability to hire pest management professionals for help. The frequent movement of people within multifamily buildings foster continual and increased bed bug issues, which must be constantly monitored and managed. If not properly managed within multifamily housing, the insects may spread further into more units.
This webinar will provide participants with comprehensive information on bed bugs including identification, their biology, ways they spread, how to detect and monitor for bed bugs, preventing exposures, and control measures through Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
The EPA and HUD experts will provide practical information to help you reduce the likelihood of bringing bed bugs home and what to do if you find them in your home or rental unit. Advice will be provided as well to multi-housing building tenants and building managers for their role to keep this serious pest under control. Do-it-yourself suggestions and enlisting the help of pest management professionals will be stressed. HUD will cover the existing bed bug policies in effect, and also introduce the agency’s new focus on the oversight of IPM for bed bug infestations in multifamily buildings through NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection)
April 30, 2024 02:00 PM in EST
Spotted lanternfly in Massachusetts: Quarterly Update, May 2024
The spring session of our quarterly spotted lanternfly webinar series coming up on May 15 at 10am. The May session will feature a presentation from Anne Johnson, a graduate student at Penn State University, about North American predators of spotted lanternfly. There will also be an update from the SLF Survey Crew.
As always, these webinars are free to attend, and provide continuing education credits for the following: 1 Mass. Pesticide License credit (all categories and license types), 1 MCA credit, 1 MCH credit, 1 MCLP credit, ½ MQTW credit, 1 Forester License credit, ¾ ISA credit, 1 Timber Harvester license credit.
Register today at https://bit.ly/SLFWebMAMay24
Previously featured
Cover Crop Breeding Field Walk – Join us!
The Cover Crop Breeding Network breeds fall-sown cover crops for traits like fall emergence, winter survival, spring vigor, high biomass, hard seed, and non-shattering pods.
Join us to walk the trial fields, talk about what we’re seeing (and not seeing), hear
about past years’ results, and learn about CCB lines approaching commercialization.
• Advanced line trials - Crimson clover, hairy vetch, winter pea, and winter canola
• Planting date trials - Cereal rye and winter pea
• Breeding nurseries - Cereal rye and winter pea (across the road & optional!)
Hosted by Ginny Moore, Asst. Professor, Plant Breeding & Genetics, Cornell, and Solveig Hanson, CCB Network Coordinator.
We’ll meet rain or shine, and we’ll have beverages and snacks!
RSVP (optional!) and find more information about the Cover Crop Breeding Network at covercropbreeding.com.
If you’d like to receive a calendar invitation for one or both dates, please email Solveig at ccbn@cornell.edu.
Tuesday, April 23 – 3-5pm
Wednesday, May 1 – Noon-2pm
Homer C. Thompson Vegetable Research Farm
133 Fall Creek Rd. Freeville, NY 13038
Follow signs at the intersection of Fall Creek & Ed Hill Rds.
MANAGING FUNGAL DISEASES FOR ORNAMENTAL PLANTS (90-minute webinar)
Ornamental plants, such as flowers and shrubs, bring beauty to their surroundings. However, imported varieties of these beautiful plants can also bring new plant diseases into the United States. The spread of these diseases can infect and potentially kill other plants, significantly impacting the domestic ornamental plant and landscape industries. In this?free?webinar, participants will be introduced to common fungal diseases of ornamental plants and learn how to manage and prevent them. Our presenter will describe the importance of integrated pest management, including the role of best practices in distribution outlets like wholesale nurseries, non-chemical controls (such as irrigation management, plant spacing, and fertilizer management), and the selective use of fungicides. Current?research and experiences of commercial ornamental plant growers will also be shared.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Learn about the origin and impact of fungal diseases in ornamental plant production, including what causes them to spread within plant production facilities; Learn how to identify common fungal diseases; Discuss ways?to remove fungal pathogens from soil using sterilization and pasteurization; and Learn about integrated pest management strategies that have been developed to This webinar will provide the attendees an opportunity to obtain continuing education credits from the following state agencies and organizations: * State Lead Agencies (SLAs): AZ, CT, DE, FL, ID, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MT, NC, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TX, UT, WY * State Department of Health/Sanitarian: AZ, MN * Organizations: New Jersey Community & Urban Forestry (NJUCF); Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM EDT
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.
- 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: MaineHealth 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!
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.
Fellowship Opportunity
Newly featured this issue
SARE Fellows Program Now Accepting Applications
Applications are now being accepted for the SARE Fellows program. SARE Fellows is a unique professional development opportunity for agricultural professionals to:
Build new relationships with colleagues across the nation.
Deepen their understanding of the concepts and intentions of sustainable agriculture.
Visit with innovative producers and partners nationwide who are striving to sustain agriculture for future generations.
Increase their awareness about educational opportunities and approaches in sustainable agriculture.
Applications must be submitted by May 31, 2024; 5pm Pacific Time.
Smithsonian Gardens - This internship provides the opportunity to promote a better understanding and hands-on experience of Integrated Pest Management techniques, urban ecosystems, and proper identification of pest species in a garden.
- Learn to efficiently scout and monitor for pest problems
- Learn to diagnose disease and pest problems for a wide variety of plants and landscapes
- Learn to write reports on findings and develop pest management programs
- Assist with release of biological controls and beneficial insects
- Develop communication skills with the public and horticultural staff about pest management strategies
- Learn about ways to promote and support urban ecosystems and pollinator conservation
- Gain hands-on experience by increasing practical entomological skills and pest management techniques
This internship meets the needs of a student who is interested in sustainable pest management strategies and seeks hands-on experience with urban ecosystems in the museum setting. The intern will work under the supervision of the Plant Health Specialist and Arborist. Interns are encouraged to take advantage of the abundant resources of the Smithsonian Institution.
Duties & Responsibilities
Assist with scouting and identification of insect pests, diseases and fungi associated with plants. Collect samples for working in conjunction with pathology and soil laboratories. Release beneficial insects to help pest populations. Record data and develop management strategies for different types and levels of pest populations. Communicate results of scouting reports with staff. Assist with outreach events and educational public interactions. The intern may have an opportunity to work on specialized projects such as invasive species or pollinator service surveys.
Integrated Pest Management Intern
Hoch Orchard & Gardens - LaCrescent, MN
Integrated Pest Management plays a key role in our organic production system. Identifying and monitoring pests, record keeping, logging weather data, and computer modeling make up the major components in our pesticide application decisions. We blend state of the art technologies with new and old certified organic products in order to produce high quality fruit in our challenging Midwestern environment.
Our overall concept is to enhance the environment and provide a balance between beneficial and pest insects. We use many approaches to keep pest populations low and to soften the natural spikes and drops in populations. We then use certified organic products to repel, kill, confuse, or inhibit the mating of pests.
Technical Assistance Program Coordinator
University of Vermont - Northeast SARE
Responsible for developing and maintaining a network of technical assistant service providers to support potential applicants in their proposals for Northeast SARE Grant Programs. The TAP Coordinator has a specific focus on reducing application barriers of historically underserved or marginalized populations. The TAP coordinator supports Northeast SARE’s diversity, equity, inclusion and justice values and its strategic plan, including engagement with under-served communities. They collaborate to develop and improve policies and procedures in support of Northeast SARE grant program effectiveness and commitment to the organization’s outcome statement. The TAP coordinator leads Northeast’ SARE’s outreach efforts in recruiting potential applicants for SARE grant programs and diversifying applicant pools. The position has a specific focus on recruiting and nurturing applicants for the BIPOC Grants Program. The position works with external partners to develop training for technical assistant service providers and leads the Northeast SARE team on policies and procedures for best practices of converting interested parties into grant applicants; they foster the relationships between technical assistant providers and grantees. The position reports to the Northeast SARE Director.
Previously featured
Assistant or Associate Professor of Urban Plant Ecology
The successful candidate will be a tenure-line faculty member of the Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and will be based in Ithaca, NY in the School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS).
Responsibilities:
This position has an effort split of 60% research and 40% teaching.
Research (60%)
Possible topics might include breeding and selection of urban landscape plants, root biology in urban environments, ecophysiological modeling of urban tree ecosystem services, urban landscape management, ecotoxicology, resporation and remediation of damaged landscapes, development or exploitation of plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stressors and related topics. There are extensive opportunies for collaboration across the College and University.
Teaching (40%)
Expectations include teaching an undergraduate course on sustainable landscape management, a seven week modular course on plant identification in natural environments, and co-teaching an undergraduate course on urban plant biodiversity that includes woody plant identification and establishment in urban landscapes.
The successful candidate will assume an active role in advancing the Green Cities initiative, an informal group of Cornell faculty, staff, and students who contribute to improving urban ecosystem services and quality of life.
The successful candidate will also be positioned to collaborate with numerous colleagues throughout several Cornell colleges and units.
Horticulture & Volunteer Manager
Pine Hollow Arboretum
Position Description:
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Horticulture & Volunteer Manager is responsible
for maintaining and developing the Arboretum by managing all horticultural and
volunteer aspects pertaining to the grounds and maintenance, the collection, and the
overall wellbeing of the entire arboretum, operating in a safe and environmentally
friendly manner.
This is a full-time position, that is on-site at the Pine Hollow Arboretum (34 Pine Hollow
Rd. Slingerlands, NY 12159). The salary range is $59,000 - $65,000, plus health
insurance and generous PTO. Some weekend and evening work may be required.
SUPERVISORY ENTOMOLOGIST/NATURAL RESOURCE SPECIALIST
Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Atlantic is currently seeking a highly qualified individual to serve as the Applied Biology Branch Head (Entomologist/Natural Resource Specialist) within the Environmental Conservation Division.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supervise the Applied Biology Branch, providing top-tier pest management consultation services.
- Manage the Applied Biology program and offer senior-level consultation for pest management issues.
- Review and approve installation integrated pest management plans, technical reports, and training materials.
- Brief senior leaders and stakeholders on pest management matters and recommend corrective actions.
- Develop, review, and implement environmental policy and guidance.
The successful candidate will have a strong background in entomology or a related natural resource field, coupled with the ability to manage complex programs and communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
For more details and to apply, please visit the job announcement on USAJOBS: Supervisory Entomologist/Natural Resource Specialist Position.
Field Assistant S08, Cornell AES Homer C. Thompson Vegetable Research Farm, Freeville, NY
As the S08 Field Assistant, you will provide direct support for research, teaching and extension in accordance with the Land Grant Mission. Key responsibilities include:
- Provide technical and general labor support for conventional and organic field research trials in a broad range of vegetable crops.
- Assist with field tillage preparation, fertilizing, planting, harvesting, mowing, stone picking and data collection.
- Adhere to and participate in personal safety training, policies, and procedures.
- Adapt the CUAES culture of sustainability as it pertains to reducing resource inputs; protecting the environment and natural resources, facility and equipment use, and alternative crop production practices.
- Responsible for equipment assembly, operation, safety, and modification to meet changing research objectives.
- Additional tasks include herbicide, pesticide, and irrigation treatments, reporting and recording, irrigation system setup and operation, daily performance recording, supply and parts procurement, and facility maintenance.
- Assist programs with harvesting and data collection at the Homer C. Thompson Vegetable Research Farm and occasionally travel to locations within New York State.
- Required to support and interact with Faculty, Staff and Graduate students in multiple Departments conducting research trials at numerous locations.
- Oversee daily monitoring and reporting of weather systems information.
- Keep detailed records and assist in overall maintenance and support functions for vegetable and high-tunnel research operations.
- Manage planting schedule for multiple crop production practices.
- For 3 months of the year this position will also support the Cornell Orchard. Responsibilities at the Orchard include tree pruning, apples sorting/bagging, equipment maintenance and repair.
Technician III/Hemlock Conservation Technician
Cornell University
While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.
Field work will be conducted year-round primarily in the southern Adirondacks but may include other locations in New York State as needed. Responsible for maintaining field equipment, including pesticide application equipment, as best as possible. Ordering field supplies and maintaining stocks and maintaining inventory. Provide basic data analysis using basic statistical methods and computer software (including Excel, Access, , R). Support ongoing and future research projects on hemlock woolly adelgid biological control and early detection of HWA using eDNA. Assist in the development of reports, papers and publications based on data collected. Provide training and assistance to volunteers and state agency personnel for HWA early detection and to assist with pesticide treatments.
This is a one-year appointment with possible extension depending on funding. workplace will be remote with equipment storage at the NYSDEC Saratoga Nursery located in Saratoga Springs, New York, and office space TBD in the Lake George area.
Supervisor Farm/Greenhouse- Landscape Operations Supervisor
Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is hiring. The position coordinates four program areas: natural areas projects and programs, landscape infrastructure construction and maintenance, fleet operations, and the deer management program.
Natural Areas Management Protection and Safety: In collaboration with the Director of Natural Areas, staff botanist, and stewardship staff, develop and implement projects and programs for Cornell Botanic Gardens’ 3,700 acres of natural areas. Recommend priorities and ensure the timely completion of designated projects involving the Natural Areas Stewardship Crew.
Deer Management Program: In collaboration with the Director of Natural Areas, Cornell University stakeholders, law enforcement and New York State, oversee the University’s deer hunting program across CALS lands in Tompkins County and the natural areas off-campus nuisance deer management program. Review and evaluate outcomes, develop reports and provide recommendations. Support impact monitoring and public information programs to achieve desired goals.
Landscape Infrastructure Construction and Maintenance: Collaborate with Program Directors and other garden staff to meet landscape construction needs and priorities; supervise the Botanic Gardens’ Landscape Construction Crew; and oversee the planning of weekly work and construction projects.
Fleet Operations: Oversee the Gardens’ fleet management in consultation with the Botanic Gardens’ operations team and supervise the mechanic.
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County
The Turf and Integrated Pest Management Specialist is responsible for providing leadership for the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County Pest Management for Suffolk County Properties Program and the Turf Fertilizer Management Program. The Specialist aids with the implementation of integrated pest management strategies for turf, landscape and structural pests in situations where pesticides have been reduced or eliminated, providing diagnoses, training, public outreach, and research and demonstration projects. The Specialist will also provide a comprehensive fertilizer educational program includes educational training to landscape professionals and county staff regarding use of nitrogen fertilizers. The Specialist also serves as a resource for all residential, commercial, and agricultural turf management. The target stakeholders and areas of work include Suffolk County staff and properties – golf courses, parks, landscapes, county facilities and buildings, highways, and right-of-ways – as well as residential, commercial, and agricultural sod.
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
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 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.
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.
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) (
) 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.
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.
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.
Previously featured
Invasive Species Eradication Funding Opportunity
Invasive species pose a significant threat to the ecological, economic, and cultural integrity of America’s lands, waters, and the communities they support. Once established, they can outcompete or even lead to the extinction of native species, reducing biodiversity and increasing vulnerability to disease and other environmental stresses. They can also lead to costly damage to infrastructure, such as roads, canals, and levees.
Controlling invasive species can be difficult, expensive, and is often ongoing. When considering management approaches, a host of factors must be considered, such as cost-effectiveness, the likelihood of reinvasion, and the availability of resources. In certain areas, eradication, or the removal of an entire population of an invasive species, can be a feasible solution for both newly introduced invasive species and ones that are already well-established. Eradicating invasive species results in substantial ecological and economic benefits to the surrounding communities.
Recognizing the importance of eradication outcomes in invasive species management, the Department of the Interior has announced the availability of up to $3 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for projects that seek to eradicate invasive species. While control and suppression of invasive species are important in many cases, the emphasis of this funding opportunity is on eradicating them from a defined area where it is a feasible and achievable management goal. This funding provides an opportunity for us to invest in protecting our lands and waters by removing an entire population of invasive species and supporting a balanced ecosystem.
The Department is working with partners to identify, enhance, and collaborate on invasive species eradication activities, build new tools, and support coordinated processes to proactively eradicate new invasive species before they spread and cause increased harm. This $3 million Funding Opportunity to Eradicate Invasive Species will be administered within the existing authorities of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Fish and Aquatic Conservation program and coordinated across the Department’s bureaus.
The Department encourages leveraging science and technology to increase the likelihood of invasive species eradication and long-term success. Proposals will be considered for on-the-ground projects that eradicate an invasive species and projects that advance research that increase the effectiveness and near-term availability of eradication tools.
Estimated total program funding: $ 2,960,000
Award ceiling: $1,000,000
Award floor: $50,000
Closing: May 27, 2024
Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species
Aquatic invasive species can lead to the extinction of native plants and animals, permanently alter habitats, and imperil public health. Aquaculture, tourism, recreation, shipping, and hydropower facilities may also be adversely impacted by biological invasion. Effective and coordinated approaches are necessary to manage aquatic invaders and protect our Nation’s waters. Although prevention is the most effective approach to eliminate or reduce the threat of aquatic invasive species, Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) serves as a failsafe when prevention measures are ineffective or unavailable.
Recognizing the importance of timely action, the Department of the Interior is working with partners to identify, enhance, and collaborate on EDRR activities, including the establishment of a Rapid Response Fund for aquatic invasive species. This fund is intended make financial resources available to assess and support response actions for quick containment or eradication of newly detected species, thus avoiding costly long-term and wide-spread control efforts. This year, as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law authorization for ecosystem restoration, the Department invested $1 million to establish a pilot Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species with an additional $1 million envisioned each year 2024 through 2026 as part of advancing a National EDRR Framework. Investments in EDRR, including a Rapid Response Fund, help to meet conservation goals set through the America the Beautiful Initiative.
The Rapid Response Fund will be administered within the existing authorities of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Fish and Aquatic Conservation program and coordinated through the Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Task Force. Co-chaired by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the ANS Task Force consists of federal agency representatives and ex-officio representatives that work in conjunction with six regional panels and issue-specific subcommittees to coordinate efforts related to aquatic invasive species across the Nation. Accordingly, the ANS Task Force is well positioned to coordinate and successfully operate a response rapid fund. In July 2023, the ANS Task Force approved The Model Process: Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species that outlines a structure and process for operation of the fund.
Read the full Notice of Funding Opportunity.
Estimated total program funding: $ 960,000
Award ceiling: $960,000
Award floor: $50,000
Amazon Research Awards issues spring 2024 call for proposals
Amazon Research Awards (ARA) is announcing the spring 2024 call for proposals for the AI for Information Security and Sustainability research areas. The deadline for submissions is 11:59 p.m. Pacific time on May 7, 2024.
Proposals will be reviewed for the quality of their scientific content, creativity, and their potential for impact at scale. Proposals related to theory, practice, and novel techniques are all welcome.
ARA provides grant recipients unrestricted funds and AWS promotional credits. Funded projects are assigned an Amazon research contact, and recipients also receive training resources, including AWS tutorials and hands-on sessions with Amazon scientists and engineers.
Before applying, we encourage researchers to visit the ARA website and read our frequently asked questions for more specific program information. We look forward to receiving your submissions.
When you're ready to submit your proposal, use the button below and follow the instructions on the site.
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.
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/.