IPM News and Events Roundup 04/26/2024

IPM News and Events Roundup

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.

Connect with the Northeastern IPM Center

Northeastern IPM Center News

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 in the News

EPA Seeks Comments on Nominations to FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is seeking public comments on experts nominated to serve on the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act Scientific Advisory Panel (FIFRA SAP).

Biographies of the interested and available candidates are available in the docket at EPA-HQ-OPP-2024-0118, and through the FIFRA SAP website. Public comments on these experts, which may be submitted in the docket, will be used to assist the Agency in selecting up to four new members. All comments must be received by May 20, 2024. EPA expects to appoint new members to the FIFRA SAP in July 2024.

Prospective candidates for membership on the FIFRA SAP are asked to submit confidential financial information (EPA Form 3110-48; Confidential Financial Disclosure Form), and fully disclose, among other financial interests, the candidate's employment, stocks and bonds, and where applicable, sources of research support. EPA evaluates the candidates' financial disclosure forms to assess whether there are financial conflicts of interest, appearance of a loss of impartiality, or any prior involvement with the development of documents likely to be under consideration by the FIFRA SAP (including previous scientific peer reviews) before a candidate is considered further.

In selecting FIFRA SAP members, EPA considers candidates’ professional qualifications, including training and experience, as well as the collective expertise and experience needed to address EPA's prospective charges to the Panel. In addition, EPA seeks to achieve a breadth and balance of different scientific perspectives on the Panel.

For additional information, please see the Federal Register Notice or contact Tamue L. Gibson, Designated Federal Official, at gibson.tamue@epa.gov or 202-564-7642.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently reviewed the following plants modified using genetic engineering to determine whether they posed an increased plant pest risk as relative to non-modified comparators:

Bayer Crop Science, sugar beet with herbicide resistance.
CoverCress, pennycress with reduced glucosinolates (sulfur-containing compounds), erucic acid, fiber, and poly-unsaturated fatty acid content in seed, increased oleic acid content in seed, and reduced seed shattering.
Hjelle Advisors for CoverCress, pennycress with reduced glucosinolates, erucic acid, and fiber in seeds.
Moolec Science, soybean with meat protein in seeds and antibiotic resistance.

APHIS found these modified plants were unlikely to pose an increased plant pest risk compared to other cultivated plants. As a result, they are not subject to regulation under 7 CFR part 340. From a plant pest risk perspective, these modified plants may be safely grown and bred in the United States.

View the RSR Table

View the Plant-Trait Mechanism of Action Table

EPA Issues Draft Risk Assessment for Use of Formaldehyde as a Pesticide under FIFRA

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing its draft risk assessment for formaldehyde and paraformaldehyde under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) for public comment. The FIFRA draft risk assessment identifies risks to human health and the environment from the pesticidal uses of formaldehyde and describes some of the sources of uncertainties in EPA’s findings.

Next Steps

EPA is accepting public comments on the FIFRA draft risk assessment for 60 days via docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2015-0739 at www.regulations.gov.

Formaldehyde is concurrently undergoing review under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) risk evaluation process. The TSCA draft risk evaluation is currently available for public comment and will also be reviewed by the Agency’s Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC), with a virtual public meeting scheduled from May 20-23, 2024.

Research in the News

Breeding for potato cyst nematode resistance in Solanum tuberosum (acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com)

Two species of potato cyst nematodes (PCNs), Globodera rostochiensis (Woll.) and Globodera pallida (Stone), threaten potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production worldwide. PCNs are remarkably persistent in soil and can reduce potato yield significantly. The most sustainable approach to PCN control is deploying resistant cultivars. This review focuses on the knowledge needed to conduct a successful PCN resistance breeding program, including identifying resistance sources in wild species, introgressing them into cultivated potato, and sifting through clones to identify a marketable potato.

Modeling and Managing Invasive Weeds in a Changing Climate (cabidigitallibrary.org)

Climate change is altering the distributions and impacts of invasive weeds. Invasive weeds reduce crop yields, threaten agroecosystem biodiversity and stability, and cause additional harm to non-agricultural ecosystems and human health. Minimizing these effects requires a proactive approach. For example, growers, land managers and other stakeholders should be trained in invasive weed identification and management before invasive weeds colonize their land. Anticipatory management of invasive weeds therefore relies on predictions about which areas are vulnerable to invasion. This chapter describes models used to predict the distributions and impacts of invasive weeds under current and future climates. Such models have been developed for invasive weeds in agricultural and non-agricultural ecosystems, in the United States and other world regions. We also summarize trade-offs related to model scale and complexity. Many analyses would be improved by the addition of parameters related to weed biology and habitat characteristics, so modeling should be accompanied by efforts to generate these data inputs. In addition, long-term modeling should acknowledge uncertainties related to weed adaptation and cropping system adaptation under climate change. Despite these outstanding challenges, we conclude that modeling efforts provide reliable and useful insights into the effects of climate change on invasive weeds.

Manage Weeds On Your Farm A Guide to Ecological Strategies (sare.org)

Manage Weeds on Your Farm is a definitive guide to understanding agricultural weeds and how to manage them efficiently, effectively and ecologically—for organic and conventional farmers alike.

With the growing spread of herbicide-resistant weeds and with the public’s embrace of sustainably raised foods, farmers everywhere, both organic and conventional, are seeking better ways to eliminate or reduce their use of synthetic herbicides. The ecological approach to weed management seeks to first understand the biology and behavior of problem weeds and then to develop an integrated set of control strategies that exploit their weaknesses.

Manage Weeds on Your Farm: A Guide to Ecological Strategies provides you with in-depth information about dozens of agricultural weeds found throughout the country and the best ways of managing them. In Part One, the book begins with a general discussion of weeds: their biology, behavior and the characteristics that influence how to best control their populations. It then describes the strengths and limitations of the most common cultural management practices, physical practices and cultivation tools. Part Two is a reference section that describes the identification, ecology and management of 63 of the most common and difficult-to-control weed species found in the United States.

Dung Beetles in Vermont and New York

Description: Dung beetles are a very important part of the pasture ecosystem. They are beneficial insects which provide a variety of ecosystem services on pastures. These two publications cover What Are Dung Beetles and Why Are They Important? and Identifying Dung Beetles.

Download links:

A lack of ecological diversity in forest nurseries limits the achievement of tree-planting objectives in response to global change (academic.oup.com)

Tree planting is increasingly being adopted as a strategy to address global change, including mitigation, adaptation, and restoration. Although reforestation has long been central to forest management, the desired outcomes of traditional and emerging tree-planting strategies face barriers linked to a lack of ecological diversity in forest nurseries. In the present article, we outline how insufficient diversity in nursery seedlings among species, genotypes, and stock types has impeded and will continue to hinder the implementation of diverse ecological or climate-suitable planting targets, now and into the future. To support this, we demonstrate disparities in seedling diversity among nursery inventories, focusing on the northern United States. To overcome these challenges, we recommend avenues for improving policy and financing, informational resources and training, and research and monitoring. Absent these advances, current seedling production and practices will fall short of ambitious tree-planting goals proposed for forest restoration and global change mitigation and adaptation.

Type of plastic film on high tunnels can filter sunlight, influence plant growth (psu.edu)

High-tunnel growing systems, sometimes called hoop houses, have gained popularity for their ability to enhance growth conditions and extend the growing season of horticultural crops. Now, a team led by Penn State researchers has demonstrated that growers can select various plastic film coverings on the structures — depending on their desired light-filtering properties — to protect plants and enhance their health.

News

Celebrate Arbor Day!

Periodical Cicadas, 2024: Entomologists Prepare for the Six-Week Serenade (entomologytoday.org | April 25, 2024)

This spring and summer, periodical cicadas are coming in hot. As adjacent 13-year and 17-year broods emerge simultaneously, they mark a rare event not witnessed since the early 19th century. The phenomenon offers scientists a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the intricate world of these enigmatic vocalists. So, experts are leaping at the chance to further unravel the mysteries of cicada biogeography, evolutionary adaptations, and the ecological significance of their cyclical emergence.

“While there are probably 5,000 to 6,000 species of cicadas, fewer than 10 are known to be periodical,” says John Cooley, Ph.D., associate professor-in-residence in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Connecticut. “These emergences are something that’s unique—a natural wonder.”

Produce Without Pesticides (consumerreports.org | April 18, 2024)

When it comes to healthy eating, fruits and vegetables reign supreme. But along with all their vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can come something else: an unhealthy dose of dangerous pesticides.

Though using chemicals to control bugs, fungi, and weeds helps farmers grow the food we need, it’s been clear since at least the 1960s that some chemicals also carry unacceptable health risks. And although certain notorious pesticides, such as DDT, have been banned in the U.S., government regulators have been slow to act on others. Even when a dangerous chemical is removed from the market, chemical companies and growers sometimes just start using other options that may be as dangerous.

Consumer Reports, which has tracked the use of pesticides on produce for decades, has seen this pattern repeat itself over and over. “It’s two steps forward and one step back—and sometimes even two steps back,” says James E. Rogers, PhD, who oversees food safety at CR.

Purdue Agricultural Spray Nozzles: A Comprehensive Review (PPP-153) (pestmanagement.rutgers.edu | April 19, 2024)

Courtesy of Dr Fred Whitford, Purdue University Pesticide Safety Education Program for Illinois:

Purdue Pesticide Programs has just published Agricultural Spray Nozzles: A Comprehensive Review (PPP-153). It can be found at ag.purdue.edu/department/extension/ppp/resources/ppp-publications/_docs/ppp-153.pdf. This 104 page document is currently being printed so hard copies will be available.

Models Can Analyze and Identify Pathogens with Accuracy Equivalent to or Exceeding Human Experts (nyfb.org)

At Cornell AgriTech, formerly the New York State Agriculture Experiment Station, scientists are unleashing the power of robotics and artificial intelligence to tackle major challenges facing farmers and drive a revolution in agricultural productivity and sustainability.

“My program here really emphasizes agriculture robotics and image analysis for farm monitoring, precision management to enhance productivity, quality, and finally, profitability,” said Dr. Yu Jiang, Assistant Professor of Cyber-Agricultural Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) Laboratory at Cornell AgriTech.

One core focus of Jiang’s work is harnessing imaging robots and cutting-edge AI models to rapidly accelerate research on plant diseases, genetics and optimizing cultivars for regional conditions. “In the past four decades, we found probably 20 genes that control disease resistance to grapevine powdery mildew,” he explained. “But in 2023 alone, with just eight of our specialized imaging robots and our AI analysis systems, we found 60 more genes that can potentially control that devastating disease.”

Virtual Orchard IPM Scout Training

NYS IPM Virtual Orchard IPM Scout Training has been called "one of the most practical/informative extension webinars," but don't take their word for it, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtyOWCL1Q2A and learn how to maximize apple yields by recognizing major orchard pests.

Pest Talks (growertalks.com)

Velifer Label Expanded
BASIN Approved
Ann Chase on Bacillus
Certis Gets Biofungicides
Gloeckner Joins AFE
Insect & Disease Guides
Online Green Training

"How-to” Video of the Week: Biocontrol Failures – Why Do They Happen? (onfloriculture.com – Again thanks Betsy Lamb for the turn on)

In this week’s video, Dr. Rose Buitenhuis from the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre discusses several factors that cause a biocontrol program to fail and explains the importance of assessing the quality of the biocontrol agents you receive. This is a great video for anyone who’s had ups and downs with their biocontrol program in the past.

eGro Electronic Grower Resources Online

Micronutrient deficiency-induced Interveinal chlorosis on schizanthus

e-GRO Blog: Fly Gardening

Public hearing this week will consider banning sale of two invasive plant species in Massachusetts (wwlp.com | April 25, 2024)

A public hearing will be held to determine the ban of two invasive plant species from being sold in Massachusetts.

These plants are banned from being sold in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) will hold a public hearing through Zoom this Friday at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the proposed ban on Japanese Black Pine and Callery Pear/Bradford Pear. The public is encouraged to provide feedback on the Zoom call or by mailing a letter to MDAR.

Use this link to join the Zoom call on April 26 – Passcode: 349732
Dial by your location – (646) 931-3860, (646) 558-8656, (312) 626-6799
Webinar ID: 850 8701 8665 – Passcode: 349732
Written testimony can be emailed to taryn.lascola@mass.gov
- Testimony can also be mailed to: Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, 225 Turnpike Road, Southborough, MA 01772 Attn: Taryn LaScola.
- Letters will not be accepted after 5:00 p.m. on Friday

Spotted lanternflies confirmed in Cincinnati. How to identify, report the invasive species (cincinnati.com | April 25, 2024)

An invasive, destructive pest has been found again in Cincinnati.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture confirmed on Wednesday that spotted lanternfly nymphs have begun to emerge in the Cincinnati area this week.

Spotted lanternflies first reached Eastern Ohio in 2020. Under Ohio law, they are designated destructive plant pests. In the past, they have been found in the following counties: Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Erie, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lorain, Lucas, Mahoning, Muskingum, and Ottawa.

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!

The Symposium website.

I want to volunteer!

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.

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!

Surveys

National Needs Assessment: DEIA programming in IPM

Katie Hartmann is the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA) for the North Central IPM Center at Iowa State University. She is conducting a national needs assessment of IPM professionals to understand their efforts regarding DEIA topics. The purpose of this study is to understand the IPM programs being facilitated in the country and IPM professionals’ level of comfort and/or needs in regard to incorporating DEIA into their work. So, if you are an IPM professional please consider taking part in her survey.

Webinars, Seminars, Meetings, and More

Newly featured this issue

What’s Wrong with My Plants? How Plant Diseases are Diagnosed
Jean Sabety, Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology
PPPMB Exit Seminar
Tuesday, April 29, 2:00 – 3:00 pm, A134 Barton
Zoom link – tinyurl.com/ydxbxmz5

Climate Change: Past, Present, and Future
Kate Marvel, NASA
Perspectives on the Climate Change Challenge Seminar Series
Monday, April 29, 2:55 – 4:10 pm, Zoom

How to count? Lichens, Buller, and Rayner
Anne Pringle, University of Wisconsin Madison
Plant Pathology & Plant-Microbe Biology – AgriTech
Tuesday, April 30, 11:20 am – 12:10 pm, A134 Barton Lab & AgriTech Zoom Passcode: Seminar

The National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) is holding its 7th National Meeting in Portland, Maine, from September 9th to 13th. Diagnosticians, State Department of Agriculture staff, government officials, institutional researchers, and students are among the many who attend this meeting. Visit the registration page on the 2024 NPDN National Meeting Website to register today!

Previously featured

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

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.

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

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 bit.ly/SLFWebMAMay24

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 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 3^rd: No-Mow May | What to do with Grass Clippings

June 7^th: Tick & Mosquito Yard Treatments | Myth: Mosquito Repellent Plants

July 5^th: Japanese Beetle Management | Aphid-Eating Insects

August 2^nd: Spotted Lanternfly Update | Box Tree Moth Update

September 6^th: Back to School: Bed Bugs | Head Lice

October 4^th: Identifying Pests in Your Home

November 1^st: 2024 Tick Blitz Results | No Spray Needed

December 6^th: 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.

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

Previously featured

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.

Apply online now.

Employment Opportunities

Newly featured this issue

Research Support Specialist I - Hemlock Conservation Team Lead

Cornell University

Responsibilities include: Serve as one of a two-person team. The “Hemlock Conservation Team”, based remotely from the Cornell Ithaca Campus working in the field to treat hemlock trees with systemic insecticides to control HWA. The “Team” will also scout priority areas for HWA early detection, maintain a database of treated trees, and assist the NYSHI lab with field research projects on HWA biological control and early detection of HWA using eDNA in New York State. 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 inventory. Provide basic data analysis using basic statistical methods and computer software (including Excel, R), provide maps using ArcGIS. 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.

Previously featured

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Turf and IPM Specialist

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.

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.

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.

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.

Funding Opportunities

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.

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.

How to apply

When you're ready to submit your proposal, use the button below and follow the instructions on the site.

Submit your proposal

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.

Further information about DACF’s PFAS response and assistance programs can be found online at www.maine.gov/dacf/ag/pfas/.