IPM News and Events Roundup 04/28/23
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
Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Find a Colleague
A helpful link on our website you may not know about:
Northeastern IPM Center Impact Statements
An impact statement is a brief summary—using diagrams, photos, key facts, and lay terminology—of why an IPM challenge matters and what we’ve accomplished in response to that challenge. It describes a known pest problem and its ramifications, and then illustrates the real-world improvements achieved by the work we coordinate and support in terms of economic, environmental, and human-health benefits. This shines a spotlight on the critical work being conducted by researchers and educators as well as the ongoing need for that work in response to ever-evolving pest threats.
Download Template Files
Impact Statement Template:
Impact Statement Plan of Work:
Impact Statement Update Slides:
Check out these up-coming training opportunities for housing and pest control professionals.
Design and Build for Pest Prevention in Multifamily Housing
Join StopPests in Housing on May 2nd, 2023 at 1:00 - 2:15 PM Eastern for a presentation for housing professionals, on incorporating integrated pest management (IPM) into new construction and capital improvement projects. Pest often exploit building openings and voids to gain access, build nests, hide out, and travel freely through buildings. Many of these gaps, openings, and design flaws can be avoided with good construction design and materials. Diane Eddings, a Wisconsin housing manager, and IPM consultant and expert, Tom Green, will share their experiences and lessons learned when working with contractors to design and build pest-proof buildings. From their recent experience working together, they’ll share with us how they incorporated pest-proof building materials, avoided gaps, voids, and openings, and what training and oversight was needed to accomplish their pest-proofing goals.
Register for the webinar here.
Questions? Email stoppests@cornell.edu
Eliminate Cockroaches from Affordable Housing with Assessment-Based Pest Management
Join StopPests in Housing on June 6th, 2023, 1:00-2:15pm Eastern to hear from Virginia Tech’s pest management expert, Dr. Dini Miller, on how assessment-based pest management works and how housing professionals can use this information to improve pest control in their buildings and developments. Dr. Miller has dedicated the greater part of her career in studying and promoting effective pest management practices. She’ll share what her years of research, and field studies in public housing have revealed and why she’s certain with effort and the right tools we can eliminate most cockroach infestations even chronic infestations in homes with sanitation issues. Join us for this informative talk for housing and pest management professionals and stick around for the last 15 minutes to listen to Dr. Miller answer your questions.
Register for the webinar here.
Questions? Email stoppests@cornell.edu
The Northeastern IPM Center has launched a series of webinars to highlight and foster diversity in IPM. We have invited presenters from historically marginalized groups to discuss topics related to their research, or to share their perspectives on overcoming barriers and succeeding in their chosen profession.
Please join us for the next webinar in our series:
Promoting LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in the IPM Field: Perspectives from IPM Professionals with:
Kim Skyrm (he/him), Chief Apiary Inspector at Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) and East Director for the Apiary Inspectors of America (AIA),
John McMullen (they/he), Postdoctoral Fellow at Indiana University Bloomington ,
Samantha Bosco (she/they), Oak Ridge Institute of Science and Education postdoctoral fellow at National Agroforestry Center (NAC),
Mary Centrella (she/her), Director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program (CCE-PSEP)
June 20, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. (Eastern)
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lytxoycDQeWn9XgEvLBDGw
To learn more, or to view recordings of past webinars in the series, visit www.northeastipm.org/ipm-in-action/deij-in-ipm/
Research
Global Patterns of Insect Resistance to Transgenic Bt Crops: The First 25 Years (academic.oup.com)
Crops genetically engineered to produce insecticidal proteins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have improved pest management and reduced reliance on insecticide sprays. However, evolution of practical resistance by some pests has reduced the efficacy of Bt crops. We analyzed global resistance monitoring data for 24 pest species based on the first 25 yr. of cultivation of Bt crops including corn, cotton, soybean, and sugarcane. Each of the 73 cases examined represents the response of one pest species in one country to one Bt toxin produced by one or more Bt crops. The cases of practical resistance rose from 3 in 2005 to 26 in 2020. Practical resistance has been documented in some populations of 11 pest species (nine lepidopterans and two coleopterans), collectively affecting nine widely used crystalline (Cry) Bt toxins in seven countries. Conversely, 30 cases reflect no decrease in susceptibility to Bt crops in populations of 16 pest species in 10 countries. The remaining 17 cases provide early warnings of resistance, which entail genetically based decreases in susceptibility without evidence of reduced field efficacy.
Black queen cell virus detected in Canadian mosquitoes (academic.oup.com)
Black queen cell virus (BQCV) is a ubiquitous honeybee virus and a significant pathogen to queen bee (Apis mellifera) larvae. However, many aspects of the virus remain poorly understood, including the transmission dynamics. In this study, we used next-generation sequencing to identify BQCV in Aedes vexans (n = 4,000) collected in 2019 and 2020 from Manitoba, Canada. We assembled de novo the nearly complete (>96%) genome sequence of the virus, which is the first available from North America and the first report of BQCV being harbored by mosquitoes. Phylogenetic tree reconstructions indicated that the genome had 95.5% sequence similarity to a BQCV isolate from Sweden. Sequences of a potential vector (Varroa destructor) and a microsporidian associated with BQCV (Nosema apis) were not identified in the mosquito samples, however, we did detect sequences of plant origin. We, therefore, hypothesize that the virus was indirectly acquired by mosquitoes foraging at the same nectar sources as honeybees.
Scale Insects Support Natural Enemies in Both Landscape Trees and Shrubs Below Them (academic.oup.com)
Scale insects are frequently abundant on urban trees. Although scales can worsen tree condition, some tree species tolerate moderate scale densities. Scales are prey for many natural enemies. Therefore, scale-infested trees may conserve natural enemies in their canopies and in nearby plants. We examined if scale-infested oaks—Quercus phellos L.—hosted more natural enemies than scale-uninfested oaks—Q. acutissima Carruth. and Q. lyrata Walter in Raleigh, NC. USA. We also tested if natural enemies were more abundant in holly shrubs (Ilex spp.) planted below scale-infested compared to scale-uninfested oaks. We collected natural enemies from the canopies of both tree types and from holly shrubs planted below these trees. To determine if tree type affected the abundance of natural enemies that passively dispersed to shrubs, we created hanging cup traps to collect arthropods as they fell from trees. To determine if natural enemies became more abundant on shrubs below scale-infested compared to scale-uninfested trees over short time scales, we collected natural enemies from holly shrubs below each tree type at three to six-day intervals. Scale-infested trees hosted more natural enemies than scale-uninfested trees and shrubs below scale-infested trees hosted more natural enemies than shrubs under scale-uninfested trees. Natural enemy abundance in hanging cup traps did not differ by tree type; however, shrubs underneath scale-infested trees accumulated more natural enemies than shrubs under scale-uninfested trees in six to nine days. Tolerating moderate pest densities in urban trees may support natural enemy communities, and thus biological control services, in shrubs below them.
Research in the News
Resource Guide for Organic Insect and Disease Management, Second Edition (cvp.cce.cornell.edu)
Organic farmers rely primarily on preventive, cultural and integrated methods of pest and disease management. However, there are a number of materials available for use that can complement and support organic management. This guide was developed to provide a useful and scientifically accurate reference for organic farmers and agricultural professionals searching for information on best practices, available materials and perhaps most importantly, the efficacy of materials that are permitted for use in organic systems. Many products available to organic farmers have not been tested extensively, and current research has not been summarized or made widely available to the general producer. A major objective of this guide has been to review recent literature for published trials on material efficacy in order to provide reliable information that can be used by farmers to effectively manage pests. Additionally, a goal was to identify what materials have shown promise but need more research.
Created with SARE support, you can download the Resource Guide for Organic Insect and Disease Management, Second Edition from Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE).
Poison Hemlock: Facts About this Early Season Weed (extension.psu.edu)
Poison hemlock germinates from seed and is a biennial plant with a basal rosette of leaves during its first year. Once it overwinters, in late April/early May, it bolts into an erect branched plant producing prominent white flowers in an umbel generally in June and July. It sets and drops seeds soon after. This weed only reproduces by seed and its taproot dies as the main plant desiccates.
U.S. Quinoa Crops Threatened by Little-Known Fly Pest (entomologytoday.org)
Not only is quinoa an excellent source of food, but it also falls into the category of climate-resilient crops. What does this mean? Quinoa is adapted to extreme growing conditions such as high elevation, poor soil conditions, and high temperature fluctuations. It can also produce adequate yields with a mere 10-15 inches of water per growing season. For comparison, wheat requires 18-21 inches of water, and corn requires 25-30 inches. We are all aware of high incidence of drought limiting our agriculture, and high tolerance for limited water supply is important for sustainability of our food production systems. Quinoa is just the crop we should be growing!
Unfortunately, a new stem-boring insect, Amauromyza karli, a fly in the family Agromyzidae, has disrupted these efforts and affected all quinoa acres grown in Colorado. The impact of this pest was especially pronounced in Colorado in 2022, where 100 percent of the acres of quinoa were affected by this pest, and farmers suffered significant crop and economic losses.
Pest Talks with JC Chong (growertalks.com)
Calcium vs. Botrytis
Patch for Problem Detection
Actinovate Shelf Life
Thrips parvispinus Webinar
Other News
U.S. National Arboretum Offers Solution to Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Pest (ars.usda.gov)
Hemlocks, Tsuga species, are evergreen trees that can be found in forested ecosystems and in landscape plantings. They are in the pine family and often assume a conical shape. Hemlocks are not poisonous and may even be used as Christmas trees during the holiday season.
Unfortunately, hemlocks in the U.S. are vulnerable to attack by a small insect called the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). This insect looks like tiny cotton balls on the needles of the tree and can kill the trees by feeding on the sap. The adelgid has decimated stands of hemlocks in the eastern U.S. While insecticides and biological control measures can offer some relief, the best way to combat HWA is to develop genetic resistance in the trees.
New York City appointed a rat czar. Her job will be a tall ask (npr.org)
Eradicating rats has been a consistent talking point for Mayor Adams. Just this week he appointed his new right hand in the battle against rodents, Kathleen Corradi. Corradi has worked in the city's public school system for years. But experts say that Corradi's new job to "fight the real enemy — New York City's relentless rat population" will be a tall order. That's partly because research on urban rats is slim, and partly because that slim research points to a penchant for being elusive.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing an effort to expedite protections on some high-risk uses of four organophosphate pesticides. The Agency is releasing the updated occupational and non-occupational spray drift exposure risk assessments for these four pesticides – diazinon, ethoprop, tribufos and phosmet – several years ahead of the scheduled completion of EPA’s work on these chemicals in order to seek early mitigation prior to completing the standard registration review process.
“The science is clear: some uses of these four pesticides pose a serious health risk to the people that are exposed to them,” said Michal Freedhoff, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. “That's why we’re taking early action now. While we know there’s still a lot of work to finish our review of these pesticides, today’s announcement helps deliver on our promise to protect farmworkers and uphold our commitment to environmental justice.”
Slightly Off the IPM Path
Why Entomology Students Should Get Active in Education and Outreach (entomologytoday.org)
Graduate students play an essential role in bridging the gap between the university and the local community through educational outreach programs. Emily Le Falchier is one such student, a dedicated and passionate entomology master’s student and lab manager in the Minteer Biological Control of Weeds Lab at the University of Florida’s Indian River Research and Education Center. Le Falchier has been making a significant impact by inspiring and guiding kids to explore the fascinating world of entomology.
By participating in science outreach activities for children, graduate students can not only exercise their communication skills and expand their own level of comprehension but also inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.
Call for Abstracts
Invasive Species Conference Presenters
The 2023 North American Invasive Species Management Association’s annual conference co-hosted with the Nebraska Invasive Species Council will be broad in geographic scope, covering challenges and successes that impact and can influence all of North America including aquatic and terrestrial plants, animals, insects, pests, and pathogens.
The conference’s purpose is to improve management, prevention, control and mitigation of invasive species. It is geared toward a broad audience to foster connecting science, policy, management, and outreach efforts. Attendees will include land managers, agriculture and natural resource professionals, researchers, students, foresters, environmental consultants, private landowners, conservation group leaders, and non-governmental organizations.
All prospective presenters (including regular and special sessions) must submit abstracts by the abstract deadline, May 7th by 11:59 p.m. CST. We are not offering a Zoom option at this time.
Conference sessions will be organized around themes and topics below. Please choose the best option that describes your presentation from the list of themes here. Use the topic areas under the themes as examples of presentation topic areas.
2023 New York Invasive Species Expo: Reflect, Adapt, Evolve
Attendees are invited to submit an abstract for a presentation, workshop, demonstration, or poster at the 2023 NYS Invasive Species Expo. This year, the Expo will be held at the beautiful Saratoga Spa State Park, a National Historic Landmark renowned for its classical architecture and mineral springs. The Expo will provide a unique conference experience by combining classic presentations and the creative use of outdoor space to appeal to a wide range of attendees. Sessions will focus on components of the overall theme. Participants will have the opportunity to REFLECT on what's been accomplished so far in the field of invasive species management, learn about the innovative ways we can ADAPT in unprecedented times, and discuss how we can EVOLVE to confront challenges of the future.
Accepted presentations, workshops, and demos will be delivered at the Expo, taking place on September 25 -26, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Presentations will occur at the Spa Little Theater auditorium. There are indoor and outdoor spaces available for workshops, depending on the needs of the facilitator. Demonstrations will be given in a large field at the center of the Expo's activities. The poster session will occur in an arcade (covered walkway) on Monday evening (Sept. 25), during the Expo's cocktail hour, with an alternative indoor location in the event of bad weather.
Abstract submissions are due Friday, May 12. Presenters will be notified via email of abstract status by June 15.
Volunteers Needed
We are looking forward to this year’s New York State Tick Blitz event and are looking for volunteers to participate! The NYS Tick Blitz is a community-engaged project that works with volunteer participants to help determine the presence and distribution of newly invasive tick species. The project is a partnership between our NEVBD program at Cornell University and the NYS Integrated Pest Management Program. It’s a great educational opportunity for volunteers. It’s free to participate, training will be offered, and participants will learn about tick habitat, tick bite prevention, and get hands-on experience in entomological research.
This year the Tick Blitz is being held June 12 – June 23. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to watch this short informational video. Those wanting to participate can then complete the registration form to sign-up and select which training session they will attend. For more information and to see results from previous years, please visit our website.
Requests for Input
NEWVEC began as a partnership of university research teams from each of the six New England states joining with state and local health departments and agricultural Extension programs to discover, evaluate, and promote practices that reduce the burden of tick- and mosquito-borne diseases. NEWVEC’s inaugural undertaking is Project ITCH (“Is Tick Control Helping”). Project ITCH will be carried out in two phases starting Spring 2023.
In Project ITCH - phase 1, NEWVEC is asking for participation of consumers to share what they are doing at home to reduce the incidence of ticks and tick bites. Whether you are hiring a company
to spray your lawn, going with a DIY approach, or just crossing your fingers, we’d like to learn more about your experience.
In Project ITCH – phase 2, NEWVEC will gather the information shared, and through a lottery process, select residential properties to participate in a research study to test what’s working. NEWVEC will partner with participants to answer the question, “Is Tick Control Helping.” And while participating households will get a free evaluation of their property, the results of Project ITCH will inform all residents about best practices to protect themselves, their families and their pets.
It all starts with you taking a few moments to answer a few survey questions. Participants in this survey will be eligible for consideration for Phase 2 enrollment in the future. To learn more about NEWVEC and Project ITCH, go to https://www.newvec.org/itch and/or sign-up to receive updates on NEWVEC projects.
Biological Opinions Available for Public Comment and Links to Final Opinions (epa.gov)
In accordance with the stakeholder input process for ESA pesticide consultations, EPA is posting draft biological opinions for public comment from either the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) prior to being finalized to ensure an open and transparent process and to ensure that measures taken to protect threatened and endangered species are both feasible and effective. Below are links to the currently available biological opinions (BiOps).
Who should take this survey: Those working in public agencies focused on controlling disease vectors (e.g. mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, bedbugs) as a public service. Also, those who work for private companies and are contracted by public entities to control disease vectors.
Thank you for your interest in this survey distributed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Division of Vector-borne Diseases in Fort Collins, CO. This survey aims to evaluate the capacity of vector management programs receiving public funds in the Upper?Midwest, mid-Atlantic,?Northeast, and Pacific coast in the United States to conduct tick surveillance and control, educate the public about tick-bite prevention, and assess the efficacy of tick control efforts. Survey data will allow CDC to identify barriers to the development of comprehensive tick management programs, assess the feasibility of key program components, and determine ways CDC can partner with vector control organizations to expand the tick management community of practice. We sincerely appreciate your time and effort in completing this survey. Participation in this survey is entirely voluntary. All data will be aggregated, and no personally identifiable information will be collected. Aggregated results data will be presented at professional meetings, included in peer-reviewed publications, and guide the development and enhancement of new and existing tick control programs. If you have questions or encounter errors during the survey, please contact tickcontrol@cdc.gov.
We would like to collect only one completed survey from each organization; however, we encourage groups of personnel within the organization to answer the survey together.
DISCLAIMER: Neither the authors of this survey nor CDC endorse any of the tick control or surveillance methods mentioned in this survey.
We are inviting you to complete an online survey about your farm business and your plans for the future. The purpose of this research is to understand how farms are adapting to the rapidly changing farm labor environment in New York state. Summary results and findings will be shared with participating farm employers.
We do not anticipate any risks for farm employers from participating in this research. Only project researchers will have access to the data in a secure electronic storage and results will only be reported as group data. At no time will any personally identifiable data be publicly reported. Your participation is this research is voluntary and you can stop at any time.
The main researcher is Richard Stup, director of Cornell Agricultural Workforce Development. Contact him at rstup@cornell.edu or (607) 255-7890 with any questions about survey content.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your rights as a subject in this study, contact the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for Human Participants at 607-255-5138 or access their website at www.irb.cornell.edu.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public nominations of scientific and technical experts for consideration to serve as ad hoc reviewers assisting the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) with the review of the Agency’s analysis and assessment of ecological risk from atrazine use. EPA is also announcing a three-day public virtual meeting on August 22-24, 2023, starting at 10:00 a.m. to approximately 5:00 p.m. EDT on Examination of Microcosm/Mesocosm Studies for Evaluating the Effects of Atrazine on Aquatic Plant Communities.
Nominations must be submitted on or before April 24, 2023. These nominations will be used to assist the Agency in selecting approximately 8-12 ad hoc reviewers to assist the FIFRA SAP with their review. The review will take place during the August public meeting. Registration information for the meeting will be announced on the FIFRA SAP website in July.
Individuals nominated for this FIFRA SAP peer review should have expertise in one or more of the following areas: aquatic plant community ecology; aquatic community ecology; plant community ecology; algae community ecology; aquatic plant ecology; aquatic toxicity; ecotoxicity; plant toxicity; algae toxicity; and/or mesocosm experiments. Nominees should be scientists with sufficient professional qualifications, including training and experience, to provide expert comments on the scientific issues for this review.
2023 Pesticide Use and Resistance Survey for the Northeast
NEVBD Pesticide Resistance Monitoring Program is asking those working in state- and county-level public health and vector control agencies in the Northeast region to complete the survey to direct their program. Your participation is essential to the continuing development of the pesticide resistance monitoring program. Please note: this survey is targeting professionals working in the Northeast region specifically.
Clicking on the link below will take you to the pesticide use and resistance survey, which should only take between 10-to-15 minutes to complete and will ask questions relevant to the following subjects:
2023 Pesticide Use and IR Monitoring Survey
EPA is proposing to require:
- A water holding period in treated rice paddies after pyraclonil is applied to minimize pyraclonil off-site movement to non-target areas in which listed species live; and
- Practices to 1) prevent water seepage from treated rice paddies through berms and levees, and 2) minimize overspray of pyraclonil granules onto berms and levees.
In accordance with the ESA Workplan, EPA is also proposing a requirement that users must check the Bulletins Live Two! website to identify whether there are any areas where the pesticide cannot be used. Currently there are no area restrictions; however, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service (the Services) may determine these mitigations are necessary during their review. With these proposed mitigations in place, EPA predicts that approving the use of pyraclonil would not result in unreasonable adverse effects to non-target organisms or present a likelihood of jeopardy to these species.
EPA is accepting public comments on this proposal and its supporting documents via docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2020-0004 at www.regulations.gov for the next 30 days.
EPA’s draft effects determination finds that fluazaindolizine:
- Will have no effect on 1,566 listed species and 782 critical habitats;
- May affect but is not likely to adversely affect 125 listed species and 18 critical habitats; and
- Is likely to adversely affect (LAA) 18 listed species and three critical habitats.
An LAA determination means that EPA reasonably expects that at least one individual animal or plant, among a variety of listed species, may be exposed to fluazaindolizine at a sufficient level to have an adverse effect. This is the case even if a listed species is almost recovered to a point where it may no longer need to be listed. The likely “take,” which includes unintentional harm or death, of even one individual of a species, is enough to trigger such a determination. As a result, there are often a high number of LAA determinations. An LAA determination, however, does not necessarily mean that a pesticide is putting a species in jeopardy.
EPA further refined its analysis for the species and critical habitats where it made LAA determinations to predict the likelihood that fluazaindolizine use could lead to a future jeopardy finding for certain listed species or adverse modification finding for critical habitats. These predictions examine effects of fluazaindolizine at the species scale (as opposed to one individual of a species). EPA predicts the originally proposed uses of fluazaindolizine would present a likelihood of jeopardy for one listed plant species (Kern Mallow) and no likelihood of adverse modification for any critical habitats. EPA has therefore determined that additional mitigations are necessary to address effects to this listed species.
The revised proposed registration decision, including the draft effects determination, will be available for comment for 30 days in docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2020-0065 at www.regulations.gov.
EPA Proposes to Register New Uses of Pesticide Chlormequat Chloride
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released for public comment its proposed decision to register the first food uses of the pesticide chlormequat chloride to provide farmers with an additional tool to help increase crop yield. Before registering these uses, EPA will need to establish tolerances in or on barley, oat, triticale, and wheat.
Chlormequat chloride is currently registered for use as a plant growth regulator (PGR) in ornamentals grown in greenhouses and nurseries. This pesticide works to control plant size by blocking the hormones that stimulate growth prior to bloom.
In small grains like wheat, barley, oats, and triticale, lodging (the bending over or breakage of small grain stems) is a major production issue. Lodging can severely limit grain yield and harvestability and have detrimental effects on grain quality. As a PGR, chlormequat chloride application decreases the height of the grain plant stem, resulting in reduced lodging and potentially increased grain yield. Compared to other PGRs with similar use patterns, chlormequat allows for more flexibility in application timing, resulting in greater ease of use for small grain producers.
Before issuing this proposed registration decision, EPA assessed whether exposures to this product would cause unreasonable adverse effects to human health and the environment, as required by the Federal Insecticide, Rodenticide, and Fungicide Act (FIFRA). Based on EPA’s human health risk assessment, there are no dietary, residential, or aggregate (i.e., combined dietary and residential exposures) risks of concern. EPA’s ecological risk assessment identified no risks of concern to non-target, non-listed aquatic vertebrates that are listed under the Endangered Species Act, aquatic invertebrates, and aquatic and terrestrial plants.
The agency is proposing mitigation measures to address potential risks of concern to occupational workers as well as birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and terrestrial invertebrates:
- Requiring personal protective equipment such as long-sleeve shirt, long pants, socks, shoes and waterproof or chemical-resistant gloves to address occupational risks of concern;
- Requiring 24-hour restricted entry intervals, including posting signs at all reasonably expected points of worker entry to the treated area to address occupational risks of concern; and
- Requiring a mandatory and an advisory spray drift management statement to address ecological risks of concern.
The proposal is now available for public comment in docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2021-0290 at www.regulations.gov for 30 days and will close on May 26, 2023.
Webinars, Seminars, Meetings, and More
What’s Bugging You? First Friday Events (New York State IPM Program)
Fridays | 12:00 pm. – 12:30 p.m. EDT | Zoom | Free; registration required
In this monthly virtual series, we explore 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. What is IPM? It's 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.
2023 What’s Bugging You First Friday Schedule
Join us Live on the first Friday of every month from Noon to 12:30 EST on Zoom.
- May 5: Spotted lanternfly update | Stinging insect ID
- June 2: Common Garden insects | Poison ivy management
- July 7: Pest of home berry plants | Spiders in the home
- August 4: Groundhog management | Bat exclusion
- September 1: Right plant, right place | Transplanting trees/shrubs
- October 6: Jumping worms | Roof gutter pests
- November 3: Winter Garden prep | Tick check reminder
- December 1: Houseplant IPM | Firewood pests
Register for upcoming events before our session on May 5, 2023.
What’s Bugging You First Friday events are in Spanish this year. Individuals interested in these events can find more information on this website: https://cals.cornell.edu/new-york-state-integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/events/whats-bugging-you-webinars/conozca-su-plaga
And can register using this form: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3OQDpakcGrSd3tc
NC RISCC spring 2023 webinar series. This virtual series aims to 1) introduce community members to different existing decision support tools to manage invasive species in a changing climate and 2) gather community input to inform the development of new tools. Advanced registration is required to attend the webinars. Register here.
Annette Evans (University of Massachusetts Amherst) and Chuck Bargeron (University of Georgia)
May 5, 2023, 10 - 11 am MT
Tool overview: An existing, web-based tool that aggregates observation data to provide a database of invasive species and pest population information for the US and Canada. EDDMapS also includes a range shift listing tool that provides information for selected species under future climate conditions which can aid invasive species prevention and early detection.
Tool overview: The final webinar will introduce a new system that is in development - an online portal that will house existing tools and datasets to aid invasive species management - from species distribution models to occurrence data and more. This centralized hub will facilitate early detection and rapid response to biological threats across the US.
Please forward this information to anyone you think might be interested. You can find more information about the webinar series including speaker bios here. Please email us at nc_riscc@colorado.edu with any questions.
Amy Wray (USGS)
June 2, 2023, 10 - 11 am MT
Tool overview: The final webinar will introduce a new system that is in development - an online portal that will house existing tools and datasets to aid invasive species management - from species distribution models to occurrence data and more. This centralized hub will facilitate early detection and rapid response to biological threats across the US.
Speaker bio:
Amy Wray is a Biologist and Technical Outreach Coordinator at the USGS Fort Collins Science Center, working on the National Early Detection Rapid Response Information System. She is originally from San Diego, CA, and completed her PhD in Wildlife Ecology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Amy was a postdoc and lab manager at the University of Wyoming before relocating to Colorado, and her previous research interests focused on wildlife disease and community ecology.
Sustainable Landscapes and Integrated Pest Management
Learn how to create a more sustainable, environmentally friendly landscape while reducing the impacts of pests during NYSIPM’s 2023 Annual Conference. Speakers will provide insight and instruction on incorporating sustainability and trusted IPM strategies to create landscapes that combine ecological, climate and societal considerations to achieve a more beautiful space with less work.
Event date: Thursday - June 15, 2023
INTEGRATED MOSQUITO MANAGEMENT UTILIZING UAVS AND ATVS (90-minute webinar)
Mosquito control districts are increasingly using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) as both monitoring tools and for applying pesticides. This webinar will explore how these technologies are evolving and becoming integrated into mosquito management programs. Federal and local experts will also discuss potential limitations and regulatory challenges with UAVs and ATVs. This webinar will provide the attendees an opportunity to obtain continuing education credits from the following state agencies and organizations: * State Lead Agencies: TBD * Organizations: TBD
Event date: Tuesday, May 23, 2023 2:00 PM - 3:45 PM EDT
Save these Dates for upcoming IR-4 Events
2023 Environmental Horticulture Workshop
The 2023 EHC Priority Setting Workshop will be held October 12-14 in Little Rock, Arkansas.
The 2023 Food Use Workshop will be held September 12 – 14 in Raleigh, NC.
2023 Industry Technology Session
The 2023 Industry Technology Session will take place virtually on Thursday, July 20.
Employment Opportunities
University of Maryland (several positions posted)
Founded in 1856, University of Maryland, College Park is the flagship institution in the University System of Maryland. Our 1,250-acre College Park campus is just minutes away from Washington, D.C., and the nexus of the nation’s legislative, executive, and judicial centers of power. This unique proximity to business and technology leaders, federal departments and agencies, and a myriad of research entities, embassies, think tanks, cultural centers, and non-profit organizations is simply unparalleled. Synergistic opportunities for our faculty and students abound and are virtually limitless in the nation’s capital and surrounding areas. The University is committed to attracting and retaining outstanding and diverse faculty and staff that will enhance our stature of preeminence in our three missions of teaching, scholarship, and full engagement in our community, the state of Maryland, and in the world.
Job Links:
Plant Science & Landscape Architecture: Assistant Clinical Professor - PTK
Plant Science & Landscape Architecture: Asst. Professor Agriculture and Extension Education
Plant Science & Landscape Architecture: Assistant Prof. and Extension Spec. – Weed Ecology
Environmental Science & Technology: Nutrient Management Advisor: Worcester County
Greenhouse Supervisor, Cornell Agricultural Experiment Station
Cornell University
The Cornell Agricultural Experiment Station (Cornell AES) is dedicated to sustainable "science for life," in its two-core separate but related functions -- the operation of world-class research facilities throughout the state and the generation and application of research-based knowledge through the administration of federal formula grants.
The Cornell AES greenhouse operations on and around the Cornell Campus are, with 127,000 square feet, the largest non-commercial greenhouse facility in the state. The 146 compartments are primarily used as teaching and research facilities, housing 300 to 400 research projects at any given time. Plant services for all these projects are provided by the dedicated greenhouse staff, which is responsible for the setup, daily care, and maintenance.
NYS’s Paul Smith’s College – Adirondack Watershed Commission
Full-Time Year-Round Positions:
Are you interested in joining our full-time year-round staff? Our team conducts scientific research, advances stewardship and community outreach efforts, and is dedicated to our mission of protecting clean water. Our current openings range from administrative support, working with our Stewardship Team, or with our science team.
Seasonal Positions:
Are you interested in having a positive impact with people and the lands & waters of the Adirondack Park? AWI hires over 100 people for summer jobs throughout the Adirondack region. These seasonal jobs offer experience in environmental science, environmental interpretation, and natural resource management. Positions range from watercraft inspection stewards working on the front lines of aquatic invasive species spread prevention, to research technicians assisting with lab and field operations in our environmental research lab.
NYS DEC Short-term positions:
NYS DEC Forest Health Strike Teams: May 17th-August 17th (ongoing recruitment, open until filled)
Locations: Avon, Albany and New Paltz. Forestry Technician positions $18.22/hour
As part of a Forest Health Strike Team, selected candidates will work in the field to survey for target invasive and non-native species. Strike teams collect valuable data on insect, disease, and other forest disturbances. The program uses this data to monitor, analyze, report on, make management decisions regarding forest damage causing agents, and to help public and private landowners and managers address these issues. Target organisms may vary by location and changing conditions. Specialized training will be provided, both remotely and in the field.
Forestry Technician Minimum Qualifications: Thirty (30) semester credit hours, including twelve (12) semester credit hours in forestry, which must include at least one course in three or more of the following areas: botany, dendrology, forest biology, forest ecology, forest ecosystem management, forest entomology, forest health, forest mensuration, forest pathology, forest protection, forest soils, general soils, geographic information systems, land surveying and silviculture OR One (1) year of technical forestry experience in one (1) or more of the following areas: forest management, including sale and removal of timber products; nursery management, including the transplanting of tree or shrub seedlings; forest pest management, including control of diseases and insect pests
To Apply: Applicants should supply a letter of intent, resume, transcript (unofficial is fine) and contact information for three professional references to Jason Denham jason.denham@dec.ny.gov. Make sure to indicate which office locations you are applying for.
Watercraft Steward Program:
Watercraft Stewards and Program Coordinators
This program is responsible for public outreach and education on preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff, Watercraft Stewards will offer inspections of watercraft for AIS and will educate boaters on AIS and prevention protocols. Inspections include AIS removal and identification, and data collection. Training will be provided. Program Coordinators will be responsible for supervising the Finger Lakes Institute's Watercraft Stewards and assist the program manager in various aspects of running the program. This is a great program for anyone looking to spend time outdoors this summer, and for those looking to build on a career in environmental studies or science, conservation, interpretation, ecology, or biology. Build valuable skills in communication, education, plant identification, and more by joining our watercraft steward team!
Positions Available: 20+ at $16.50 - $19.00/hour
Locations: Public boat launches on Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco and Otisco Lakes and surrounding areas, Whitney Point Reservoir, Sodus Bay and parts of the Erie Canal and Lake Ontario in Rochester, NY.
To apply, and for more information about the Watercraft Steward position, follow this link: https://www.hws.edu/offices/hr/employment/summer.aspx
To apply, and for more information about the Watercraft Steward Program Coordinator position, follow this link: https://www.hws.edu/offices/hr/employment/temp.aspx
Aquatic Invasive Species Field Crews:
With assistance from Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) and Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (FL PRISM), these positions will assist in field work related to various aquatic invasive species (AIS) programs. Crews will work with managers to survey, monitor, and manage high-priority AIS. Crews will collect plant survey and water quality data on waterbodies throughout the Finger Lakes region. Training is included. These are great positions for anyone looking to spend time outdoors this summer, and for those looking to begin a career in the fields of environmental studies or science, conservation, ecology, or biology. Build valuable skills in plant identification, data collection, field work, teamwork and more by joining one of our field teams!
Positions: 5 at $17.50 - $18.50/hour
Locations: Geneva, NY, with travel throughout the Finger Lakes Region
To apply, and for more information, follow this link: https://www.hws.edu/offices/hr/employment/summer.aspx
Terrestrial Invasive Species Field Crew:
With assistance from Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) and Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (FL PRISM), will assist in field work, outreach, and education related to various terrestrial invasive species (TIS) programs. Crews will work with managers to survey, monitor, and manage high-priority TIS throughout the Finger Lakes region. Crews will collect plant survey data on throughout the Finger Lakes region, and will participate in mechanical removals at high priority sites. Training is included. These are great positions for anyone looking to spend time outdoors this summer, and for those looking to begin a career in the fields of environmental studies or science, conservation, ecology, or biology. Build valuable skills in plant identification, data collection, field work, teamwork and more by joining one of our field teams!
Positions: 2 at $17.50 - $18.50/hour
Locations: Geneva, NY, with travel throughout the Finger Lakes Region
To apply, and for more information, follow this link: https://www.hws.edu/offices/hr/employment/summer.aspx
Rutgers University
Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, is searching for a community-engaged scholar to provide statewide leadership, educational programming, and applied research-based expertise in our Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program (IPM), focusing specifically on tree and small fruit production. This 12-month, 100% Extension-funded tenure-track position, to be housed at an off-campus Rutgers NJAES Extension Research Farm or county Extension office (TBD), offers an exciting opportunity for developing new strategic and innovative initiatives in the areas of tree and small fruit production and sustainability.
Posting Close Date 05/01/2023
Assistant Extension Specialist
Rutgers University
The Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics invites qualified candidates to apply for a tenure-track faculty position as an Assistant Extension Specialist (equivalent to Assistant Professor) in Farm Viability. This is a 12-month tenure track position, housed in the Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics. The Assistant Extension Specialist will hold a majority appointment in Rutgers Cooperative Extension and is expected to be an active member of the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics. The successful candidate is expected to develop and lead externally funded research and extension programs that support and strengthen the viability of New Jersey farms, spanning different scales, commodities, and production systems. The expected outcomes are identifying needs and providing program outreach to underserved farmers and agricultural constituencies. Programmatic emphases will include sustainable agricultural production, diversified farming systems, climate resilience, feasibility analysis, farm management and business decision-making, and the development of marketing strategies. In addition, the Specialist is expected to participate in undergraduate and/or graduate teaching and advisement of independent research projects in the field of expertise.
Professional Practice Extension Assistant Professor, Insect Diagnostician
Utah State University
Utah State University seeks an accomplished and collaborative insect diagnostician and pest management specialist to join the Utah Plant Pest Diagnostic Lab (UPPDL) in the Department of Biology, USU Logan campus. The successful candidate will have a solid background in insect and arthropod identification and pest management, and a demonstrated ability to work effectively in Extension. The composition of the position is 95% Extension and 5% service.
This is a non-tenure track, faculty appointment at the Professional Practice Extension Assistant Professor rank with opportunity for promotion. Review of applicants will begin in late March 2023 and will continue until the position is filled, with a tentative start of June 1, 2023. This position is not eligible for remote work.
Agricultural Climate Energy Specialist
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR)
MDAR seeks applicants for the position of Agricultural Climate Energy Specialist (EA III) within the Division of Agricultural Conservation and Technical Assistance (DACTA). The position will support work that advances climate smart initiatives on farms including clean energy and energy efficiency and climate resiliency. The Specialist will have a working knowledge of agriculture and a desire to improve climate resiliency of farm operations in Massachusetts.
The position is full-time and is based in the Southborough, Lakeville or Boston Office. The workplace has recently transitioned to a hybrid work model that includes a combination of working in the office and remotely. The position will report to the DACTA Division Director and the type of person we are seeking is one who is reliable, detailed oriented, tech-savvy, and has a willingness to learn, ask questions when in doubt, and become a valuable, contributing member of our team. This person should also have strong writing skills and be able to work with others in a collaborative team environment. The person will work closely with the Department’s Alternative Energy Specialist.
The SARE Fellows program provides an immersive educational experience for participants to enhance their understanding of sustainable agriculture through broad-based training and interpersonal interactions at unique agriculture operations nationwide. Participating Fellows build professional relationships, improve their teaching and technology transfer skills, and are better prepared to develop programs that meet the needs of their local agricultural communities.
Program Details
The Fellows program is a two-year commitment and participants are selected on a competitive basis. Each year, one individual from each of the four SARE regions is chosen resulting in a total of eight Fellows participating in any given year.
State-based study tours are the core of the program. The tours are three to four days long and are held every spring and fall. They occur in each region on a rotating schedule, so that each Fellow visits all four regions during their two-year program. Specific dates are chosen by the host state with input from the participants. Selected Fellows agree to participate in all four study tours over the two-year period.
After completing the program, the graduating class of Fellows facilitates a “Reading the Farm” super seminar and farm tour at the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) annual meeting.
All travel, meal, and lodging expenses will be covered by the program. Additionally, participants receive a complete SARE library and are eligible for a $1,500 stipend after successful completion of all four study tours. Stipends must be used for program support in their own professional outreach activities, which will require a plan of work and final report.
For more information see SARE Fellows Program Eligibility and Application.
Research Associate II, Extension Vegetable Program
University of Delaware
The University of Delaware Carvel Research and Education Center serves as the experiment station and county extension office for southern Delaware in Sussex County. This facility provides the setting for applied research in many areas coupled with the dissemination of these results and additional information to Sussex County residents as well as to the state and region.
The University of Delaware Extension Vegetable and Fruit Program conducts applied research and provides Extension support to Delaware’s vegetable and fruit growers. This position will support a grant funded research project in the area of lima bean breeding and genetics and vegetable variety trials. Funding is in place for 3 years with continued funding support anticipated. The Research Associate will work under the supervision of the Extension Vegetable and Fruit Scientist/Specialist.
Mountain Top Arboretum (MTA), in Tannersville, NY
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - The Mountain Top Arboretum (MTA), in Tannersville, NY seeks an energetic, entrepreneurial, mission-driven professional to become MTA’s next Executive Director (ED). Working closely with its engaged and dedicated Board of Directors and in collaboration with the Director of Horticulture & Environmental Stewardship, the new ED will be responsible for advancing the organization financially, strategically, programmatically, administratively, and operationally. This is an outstanding opportunity for a professional who is committed to excellence in nonprofit organizational leadership; who has the vision to leverage our strong organization and drive it to the next stage of growth and long-term sustainability; and who is passionate about horticulture/public gardens, education, environmental stewardship, and the Catskills. Critical priorities for this role include: 1) assuring the Arboretum’s long-term financial health and sustainability through robust fundraising, donor stewardship, and the development of new revenue streams; 2) enthusiastically implementing MTA’s recently-adopted Strategic Plan; 3) guiding the day-to-day administration as well as growing the organization’s staffing and programmatic capacity consistent with the anticipated growth of financial resources; 4) creating synergies and partnerships, with other organizations, that amplify MTA’s local and regional impact; 5) advancing our position as a cultural and educational asset to the Mountain Top community and an organizational jewel in the greater Catskills crown. We seek a candidate who embraces our vision, mission, and values; who will champion the Arboretum with leadership excellence and unquestioned integrity.
Seasonal horticulturist (Part time)
The Arboretum seeks to hire a part-time seasonal Horticulturist reporting to the Executive Director. The employee will work in all aspects of plant care throughout the property with a particular focus on the detailed maintenance of the Arboretum’s displays and natural areas. The qualified candidate is passionate about plants and nomenclature, has a discerning eye, a strong work ethic, enjoys interacting with the public and would like an opportunity to gain broad experience in a small but high quality organization.
Interested applicants should send a resume to Marc Wolf, Executive Director, at marc@mtarboretum.org
The Arboretum is an equal opportunity employer.
This is a part-time seasonal position, up to four days/week, approx. May 1 - October 15, 2023.
Compensation: $20-$22.50/hour, commensurate with experience
The Suffolk County Water Authority is seeking an Ecological Field Specialist to assist with the planning and implementation of ecological management and stewardship activities and projects in the Central Pine Barrens that foster biological diversity, natural resource conservation, water resource protection, and ecosystem protection and restoration, and the implementation of a scientific ecological research program.
The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is seeking an energetic, passionate, experienced and collaborative Executive Director to provide visionary leadership to its dynamic staff, board, and partners. In joining NCAT’s staff, the Executive Director must be deeply committed to public service and to becoming part of our high performing, passionate, and diverse team.
Founded in 1976, NCAT is a national, private nonprofit organization providing trusted, individualized technical assistance, hands-on training opportunities, practical educational resources, and peer-to-peer learning networks on nationally acclaimed projects in food, agriculture, energy, and climate resilience. NCAT has field offices in 11 states. At close of 2022, the organization had an annual budget of $7 million, with major additional funding expected to be finalized in 2023 for roles or leadership in five Climate Smart Agriculture Partnerships, plus additional new agriculture and energy projects. NCAT is committed to advancing racial equity and inclusion in its work and organization.
Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2023 or until a suitable candidate is identified. Early applications are encouraged. All persons interested in being considered for the position must submit a current resume and cover letter highlighting their experience and skills at https://ncat.bamboohr.com/jobs/.
Questions about the application process can be directed to: Kriss Sullivan, Director of Human Resources; email: jobs@ncat.org.
University of Georgia
UGA-Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health-Tifton Campus
Post-Doctoral Associate
BASE ANNUAL SALARY: $53,000
GENERAL DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS:
This Postdoctoral Research Associate position will work on mapping and modeling invasive and potentially invasive species to North America as part of a U.S. Forest Service funded project. This grant-funded position is initially funded for 19 months and could be extended if additional funding is available. The primary work will be utilizing distribution data from EDDMapS (www.eddmaps.org) and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (www.gbif.org) to model and map species distribution with variables of current and future climate, current land cover, and human population density. The position will be located in the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health and will work closely with the Center faculty and staff.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Doctorate in a relevant discipline (e.g., invasive species, forestry, natural resource management, ecology, entomology, weed science) with expertise in data management and geospatial analysis, particularly as it relates to species modeling and distribution. Candidates will demonstrate and be committed to thriving in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment and conceptualize, implement, and develop high quality/high impact interdisciplinary products.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in geospatial analysis, spatial data management, developing data visualizations and a working knowledge of coding geospatial operations (in R, Python, or other). Understand and synthesize knowledge across disciplines.
Assistant Director, Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources, Associate or Full Professor
Ohio State University
The Ohio State University Extension Assistant Director, Agriculture and Natural Resources program leader is responsible for the leadership and administration of the Ohio State University Extension's Agriculture and Natural Resources program area. The Assistant Director Agriculture and Natural Resources is responsible for the leadership of Ohio State University Extension's Agriculture and Natural Resources program area. This includes overall direction of educational programming within and across Ohio's 88 counties. The Assistant Director reports to the Director of OSU Extension and serves as a member of OSU Extension's Administrative Cabinet. Specifically, the Assistant Director provides leadership and direction for Agriculture and Natural Resources programming with emphasis on program and curriculum development; applied research; identifying potential collaboration and partnerships with universities, colleges, departments, peer agencies and industry partners; securing funding to support related activities; administrative leadership for the state Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources office; and professional development of faculty and staff.
The UMass Extension Agriculture Program has five Extension Educator positions open. If you want to use science to help Massachusetts farmers be more successful and sustainable, please apply for one or more of these opportunities to join our team! The default location for all positions is the UMass Amherst campus, with opportunities for hybrid work arrangements. Candidates who wish to be considered for more than one of the above positions need to apply for each position individually. Positions will remain open until filled.
1 and 2. The UMass Extension Fruit Team is currently hiring one Extension Educator III (MS-level) and one Extension Educator II (BS-level). The successful candidate for the Educator III position will have expertise in tree or small fruit crop and pest management and will work with other members of the Fruit Team to provide science-based educational programming and technical assistance to commercial fruit growers in MA, and conduct applied research on relevant crop and pest management topics. Special consideration will be given to candidates with expertise in plant pathology and/or small fruit production. The Extension Educator II, which is a 24-month appointment that may be extended pending funding availability, will provide program support for the Fruit Team, assisting with educational programming, organizing grower meetings, contributing to publication of newsletters, and assisting with applied research trials. For more details please see the full position descriptions linked below.
Fruit Extension Educator III
https://careers.umass.edu/amherst/en-us/job/518181/fruit-extension-educator-iii-umass-extension
Fruit Extension Educator II
https://careers.umass.edu/amherst/en-us/job/518182/fruit-extension-educator-ii-umass-extension
3. Extension Educator III Production Agriculture
https://careers.umass.edu/amherst/en-us/job/518183/extension-educator-iii-production-agriculture
The UMass Extension Vegetable and Fruit Teams are hiring an Extension Educator III to provide cross-commodity educational programming and technical assistance for commercial vegetable and fruit growers in MA, and conduct applied research. Special consideration will be given to candidates with expertise in weed biology and management, but other cross-cutting disciplines, for example climate change and technology, will be considered. This is a 24-month appointment that may be extended pending funding availability. For more details please see the full position descriptions linked below.
4. Soil Health Extension Educator IV
https://careers.umass.edu/amherst/en-us/job/518166/extension-educator-iv-soil-health-umass-extension
The UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Lab is hiring a Soil Health Educator IV who will develop and deliver recommendations to customers and educational resources relevant to soil fertility and health, with potential for some applied research projects. They will collaborate with Extension professionals across multiple teams in production agriculture, commercial horticulture, and urban agriculture. This is a MS-level position requiring significant experience, with a preference for candidates with expertise in analytical testing and practical recommendations in soil fertility and health. This is a 24-month appointment that may be extended pending funding availability. For more details please see the full position descriptions linked below.
5. Urban Agriculture Extension Educator III
UMass Extension is hiring an Urban Agriculture Educator III to join a recently hired Urban Agriculture Educator based in Newton and a soon-to-be hired Extension Faculty member at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture. The Educator will develop and deliver educational resources to support agricultural enterprises in urban areas of Massachusetts and maintain working relationships with organizations and professionals in urban agriculture and linked fields. Successful candidates will have at least a BA/BS and three years of relevant professional experience, in addition to strong multi-cultural competence and experience delivering fact-based information. This is a 24-month appointment that may be extended pending funding availability. Alternate UMass locations in Massachusetts can be discussed with the preferred candidate. For more details please see the full position descriptions linked below.
Restoration Planting Specialist
NYC Department of Environmental Protection
The Bureau of Water Supply seeks to hire a City Planner II for a position with Invasive Species Program, Ecological Research and Assessment Section, Natural Resources Division, Watershed Protection Programs Directorate, located in Kingston, New York. The Ecological Research and Assessment (ERA) Section provides an array of services to the Bureau of Water Supply and other bureaus in the fields of invasive species, wetlands, restoration, aquatic ecology, and project review. Through research and monitoring programs, ERA supports management of City lands, regulatory reviews, partnership programs and a wide range of watershed protection and management programs. Understanding and managing the wetlands, streams, lakes, ponds and reservoirs in the watershed and their relationship with the uplands is very important for assessing their condition and identifying and mitigating potential water quality threats.
Post-Doctoral Associate Position
Shrewsbury Lab - Biological Control / IPM
Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD
Position Summary: This position addresses the use of natural enemies (including pathogens) in the biological control of the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF, Lycorma delicatula) in urban environments. The project is part of a collaborative effort with USDA and other university researchers with opportunities for networking and Extension. The incumbent will also participate in the statistical analysis and publication of existing data sets.
Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in entomology, sustainable pest management, biological control, insect pathology, or a closely related field; demonstrated strong statistical and writing skills; evidence of a publication record; ability to work independently; driver’s license; and be able to do physical field work.
Responsibilities: The incumbent will be responsible for: 1) designing research protocols and conducting lab and field experiments on the biological control of SLF using pathogens, 2) data management, 3) supervising undergraduate students, 4) statistical analysis and publication of on-going research projects, and 5) presenting results at professional and extension meetings.
Duration: 12 months, full time position with benefits.
Review of applicants will begin immediately and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified. Preferred start date as soon as possible.
Application Process: Email to Dr. Paula Shrewsbury at pshrewsbury@umd.edu: 1) a cover letter that includes your research and extension qualifications and interests, including your statistical and writing experience; 2) CV; 3) 1-2 representative publications, and 4) contact information for 3 references.
Integrated Pest Management Area Advisor (Applied Research and Extension) 22-26
The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) offers a unique recruitment opportunity for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) IPM Area Advisor. UC ANR operates a statewide network of researchers and educators dedicated to the development and application of knowledge to address local agricultural, environmental and health issues. Over 150 UC ANR UCCE advisors conduct research, outreach and education from locally based CE offices serving all 58 counties from 70+ locations throughout the state. By working and living among those we serve, UC ANR expands the University of California’s reach to engage all people and communities in California, ensuring equal access to the UC system.
Location Headquarters. UCCE El Dorado County Office, Placerville, CA
Purpose: The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Area Advisor will implement a dynamic applied research and extension outreach program addressing sustainable management for a wide range of pests and abiotic plant disorders affecting the diverse small farm cropping systems and associated grower communities found within the region.
Closing Date: To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by May 23, 2023
Funding Opportunities
NYS DEC 2022 - Urban and Community Forestry Grants Program
This grant is now open, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and in the order received until funds are exhausted. See the Request for Applications (RFA) (PDF) for detailed information. The December 9, 2022 information session is now available to view. This is a special grant opportunity made possible in part by federal and state funds. (Information on Round 16 of the regular Urban and Community Forestry Grant will be updated below as dates are finalized.) Up to $350,000 will be available for Tree Planting in Disadvantaged Communities after Ash Loss. The November 9th information webinar was recorded. (Please note that the presentation starts at about 14 minutes in to the recording.) Eligible applicants include NYS Municipalities, Indian nations, or tribes, and 501(c)(3) not-for-profit (NFP) corporations.
Application Deadline:
2:00 pm, Tuesday, May 30, 2023, or when funding is exhausted, whichever occurs first.
The Land Trust Alliance, with support from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Legislature, is pleased to announce a second round of competitive land trust grants through the New York State Forest Conservation Easements for Land Trusts Program.
This successful public-private partnership is funded through the state Environmental Protection Fund and administered by the Alliance, in coordination with the DEC.
Up to $1,350,000 is available through the 2023 grants round which will be awarded in the fall of 2023. Grant awards are contingent upon the receipt of state funds.
All LOIs/preapplications must be completed through our online application and reporting system.
The deadline for LOIs/preapplications, May 11th by 5 p.m. Eastern.
This is a Big One! Applications for IRA-Funded UCF Grants Now Open, Close June 1
At an event today in New Jersey, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced more than $1 billion in grants to increase equitable access to trees and green spaces in urban and community forests where more than 84% of Americans live, work and play. The grant funding is available to community-based organizations, tribes, state and municipal governments, nonprofit partners, universities, and other eligible groups as they work to increase tree cover in urban spaces and boost equitable access to nature.
Along with the open grant funding opportunity, the Forest Service is providing up to $250 million to states and territories to further their competitive grant efforts to support urban communities through equitable access to trees and the benefits they provide.
This funding is made possible through investments from the Inflation Reduction Act.
Applications for the competitive grant opportunity are being accepted from April 12, 2023 to June 1, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
For information on how to apply for federal Urban and Community Forestry grants, visit the Forest Service website, or www.grants.gov using the opportunity number USDA-FS-2023-UCF-IRA-01. https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html?keywords=USDA-FS-2023-UCF-IRA-01 For more information on funding to states and territories, visit the state allocations webpage. To learn how to apply for state or territory-administered subgrants, contact local state forestry agencies.