IPM News and Events Roundup 05/26/23
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.
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Check out these up-coming training opportunities for housing and pest control professionals.
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
In 2022, the Northeastern IPM Center 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/
Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases: Updated Pest Alert
The North Central IPM Center has released an updated pest alert about ticks and tick-borne diseases. Available in web page format and PDF for download.
Research
Controlling Pests and Protecting Pollinators (NE-1501 | 2015-2020) (mrfimpacts.org)
Most agricultural systems in the Northeast rely on pesticides to ensure high yields and profits, but
pesticides can pose risks to essential pollinators and environmental health. To reduce reliance on
pesticides, scientists are exploring ways to harness natural plant defenses, such as emitting chemicals
that slow insect feeding, inhibit infections, call beneficial insects to their aid, or warn other plants.
The contrasting role of climate variation on the population dynamics of a native and an invasive insect pest (journals.plos.org)
Since 2008, spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii, has become a major pest of soft, thin-skinned fruits in the USA, causing significant annual yield losses. Historically, the native blueberry maggot fly, Rhagoletis mendax, has been a key blueberry pest in eastern North America and a driver of insecticide usage. After its invasion in 2011 into New Jersey (USA), D. suzukii has supplanted R. mendax as the main target of insecticide applications in the state. However, the impact of D. suzukii on the native R. mendax has not been documented, particularly in relation to local climate. Historical monitoring data from New Jersey blueberry farms were used to assess the role of climate on R. mendax and D. suzukii populations. Seasonal trap captures of R. mendax adults have decreased after D. suzukii invasion, while D. suzukii trap captures have increased. Similarly, D. suzukii first captures have occurred earlier each year, while R. mendax has been captured later in the growing season. Winter freezing and summer growing degree days were found to significantly correlate with D. suzukii activity. Using downscaled climate simulations, we projected that D. suzukii will arrive in New Jersey blueberry fields up to 5 days earlier on average by 2030 and 2 weeks earlier by 2050 with warming temperatures, exacerbating yield losses and insecticide usage. As regional temperatures are projected to warm and the invasive range continues to expand, we predict the rate of phenological development of the invasive D. suzukii and its impact on native insects to change noticeably, bringing new challenges for pest management strategies.
Research in the News
NNYADP Research Rates Pre-Emergent Horseweed Management Options (nnyagdev.org)
Watertown, New York; May 23, 2023. The Northern New York Agricultural Development Program has announced the results of on-farm field research trials identifying the effectiveness of different treatments for management of horseweed in soybean. The broadleaf weed, also known as marestail, has become increasingly resistant to the use of glyphosate as the primary seed control program for its management.
On World Bee Day, Celebrate NIFA-Funded Native American Pollinator Projects (nifa.usda.gov)
Under the theme, “Bee engaged in pollinator-friendly agricultural production,” World Bee Day 2023 calls for global action to support pollinator-friendly agricultural production and highlights the importance of protecting bees and other pollinators, particularly through evidence-based agricultural production practices.?Learn about how Native American farmers, ranchers and youth are supporting bees and pollinators through community outreach and practical programming across Indian Country through NIFA’s Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program (FRTEP).
International Cooperation Boosts Prep for Invasive Insects Before They Arrive (entomologytoday.org)
Previous research has shown that, between 2003 and 2012, insect pests affected more than 85 million hectares of forest worldwide, much of which was in temperate North America. Invasive insects tear through North American forest systems at such an alarming rate that the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced in January that it would spend over $70 million on beefing up pest detection, surveillance, and control systems and safeguarding the U.S. nursery system in 2023. The funding supports 350 projects led by universities, states, federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, nonprofits, and Tribal organizations across 48 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
Other News
Knock out Browntail Caterpillars (maine.gov)
Now through late June, browntail caterpillars become expert hitchhikers and will wander onto anything they can climb. When they hitch a ride with you, the caterpillars may settle into a new area and cause rash or irritation to people, consume the foliage of nearby trees and shrubs, and mature into egg-laying moths at their new location. Browntail caterpillars are really good at travelling to new places, but you can help stop them.
To prevent spreading these caterpillars to new areas, look for them on your cars, trucks, bikes, boats, ATVs, equipment, and other items before you leave. Use protective measures to avoid skin contact with the hairs when carefully removing any caterpillars (and, later in June, cocoons). Browntail caterpillars pupate into moths in July and the moths are good at hitching rides, too.
The Biden-Harris Administration announced the availability of $500 million in funding to advance partner-driven solutions to conservation on agricultural land through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). RCPP leverages a voluntary approach to conservation that expands the reach of conservation efforts and climate-smart agriculture through public-private partnerships. Increased funding for fiscal year 2023 is made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, and this year’s funding opportunity reflects a concerted effort to streamline and simplify the program. Program improvements will enable USDA to efficiently implement the $4.95 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funding for the program while improving the experience for partners, agricultural producers, and employees.?
PARTNERSHIPS PROTECTING POLLINATORS (redtomato.org)
In partnership with the IPM Institute of North America and scientists from across the country, we continually evaluate Eco protocols to include the most up-to-date research. We rely on experts like the Danforth Lab at Cornell University, and the Xerces Society to stay current with research on both native and commercial bees and pollinators, and to support growing practices that protect and nurture these essential partners in the life cycle of healthy fruit.
Explore the Vulnerable Species (storymaps.arcgis.com)
One reason a species may become endangered or threatened is their habitats are changing due to the actions of people. Changes to species’ habitats may include loss of habitat and chemical contamination of their food, water, and shelter.
As described in EPA’s Endangered Species Act (ESA) workplan , EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) is moving forward with the Vulnerable Species Pilot , a comprehensive, long-term approach to identify species particularly vulnerable to pesticides, create mitigations to protect them from exposure, and implement the protections across different types of pesticides (e.g., herbicides, insecticides, fungicides). The pilot focuses on species Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) noted as generally vulnerable to environmental stressors with one of these stressors possibly being pesticides. In total, the Vulnerable Species Pilot includes 27 species.
Pest Talks with JC Chong (growertalks.com)
What the ... ?
Solution for Thrips parvispinus
New Biosolutions Guide
SLF Egg Hatching
Slightly Off the IPM Path
Postal Service Commemorates 50th Anniversary of Endangered Species Act with New Stamps (usps.com)
Nearly 50 years ago, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) was signed into law. Under the ESA, more than 1,670 U.S. and nearly 700 foreign species are safeguarded to increase their chances of survival. With the release of the new Endangered Species Forever stamps today, the Postal Service is celebrating not only the law, but also the people, organizations and agencies who have worked so hard to protect and save so much.
The 20 stamps showcase photographs of endangered animals found within the 50 states and American territories, as well as two North American species living near U.S. borders.
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.
Summer is around the corner and we need your help in saving our natural spaces. FL PRISM is calling volunteers to register for the Macrophyte Survey Program (MSP) and Trail Survey Program (TSP). Data collected by volunteers during these community science-based surveys helps us and our partner organizations monitor invasive species populations across the region as well as guide management initiatives. We let you survey on YOUR schedule. Training and tools provided at no cost. Get active, go outdoors, and help us protect the environment! (Please distribute to your networks - link to fliers below)
Ready to help protect our waters? Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/TmyVKJVc1UKjfk9D6 or email Aquatic Invasive Program Manager: aslentz@hws.edu
Ready to help protect our lands? Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/fWJu7HqNLQKsAuAZ7 or email Terrestrial Invasive Program Manager: gallo@hws.edu
Requests for Input
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
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment on draft guidance to improve the efficiency of EPA’s Endangered Species Act (ESA) analyses for new pesticide active ingredient applications and active ingredients undergoing registration review. This guidance, when finalized, fulfills requirements outlined in the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2022 (PRIA 5) and furthers goals outlined in EPA’s 2022 ESA Workplan to protect listed species from exposure to pesticides.
Among other requirements, PRIA 5 mandates that EPA develop and issue guidance to registrants regarding analyses necessary to support the evaluation of potential adverse effects from outdoor uses of pesticide products on listed species and designated critical habitat. PRIA 5 specifies that the draft guidance be available for public comment and be finalized within nine months of PRIA 5 issuance.
The draft guidance applies to:
- New conventional pesticides and biopesticides that are intended for outdoor use; and
- Existing conventional pesticides and biopesticides that are intended for outdoor use that are being reevaluated under registration review.
Although this document does not create new requirements for applicants, the recommendations in the guidance will help applicants address potential effects to listed species for new active ingredients and registration review actions. In particular, the recommendations focus on actions that applicants can voluntarily pursue to inform their proposed mitigation measures for listed species. These actions include identifying where a pesticide will be used, how species may be exposed to the pesticide, and how to select mitigation to reduce the exposure. If followed, these recommendations should expedite the FIFRA action and improve the efficiency of the overall ESA-FIFRA process.
Guidance for new uses of existing active ingredients will be made available at a later date.
The draft guidance, which incorporates lessons EPA has learned over the past several years as it has worked to implement EPA’s ESA workplan, is available for public comment in docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2023-0281 at www.regulations.gov for 30 days.
Background on Enlist Products
In January 2022, EPA completed a comprehensive ecological risk assessment for 2,4-D choline salt (2,4-D), an active ingredient in both Enlist products, and glyphosate dimethylammonium salt (glyphosate), an active ingredient in Enlist Duo. EPA also completed a BE for both Enlist products’ potential effects on listed species and their critical habitats, as well as an evaluation of mitigations that are already included on Enlist One and Enlist Duo labels to address listed species concerns. This evaluation was completed as part of EPA’s efforts to meet its obligations under the ESA. EPA determined in its BE that the use of Enlist One and Enlist Duo are “likely to adversely affect” (LAA) some listed species, but predicted that such use will not lead to jeopardy to listed species or to the adverse modification of critical habitats.
An LAA determination means that EPA reasonably expects that at least one individual of any listed species may be exposed to a chemical 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 initiated consultation with FWS upon completion of the BE for Enlist products. During consultation with FWS, EPA provided additional analyses to support the BiOp. The conclusions of the 2022 BE identified 112 listed species and 38 critical habitats as LAA. During consultation, EPA considered additional lines of evidence (e.g., life-history, species distribution, likelihood and magnitude of plant effects, and impacts of required runoff mitigations) resulting in a revised determination that only 22 species and five designated critical habitats remained designated as LAA.
Draft Biological Opinion
The draft BiOp released is the result of EPA’s consultation with FWS. The document contains preliminary findings from FWS that the use of Enlist products, as specified in the approved product labels, are not likely to jeopardize any listed species or adversely modify their critical habitats.
The draft BiOp describes measures to minimize potential exposure and effects to listed species and also accounts for measures that are included as part of the registration decision that are intended to ensure that Enlist products are not likely to jeopardize listed species or adversely modify critical habitats. It also includes actions EPA must take to minimize incidental take to listed species and critical habitats, such as the development of ESA educational materials, reporting of label compliance monitoring, and inclusion of label information about ecological incident reporting.
EPA is particularly interested in feedback on the feasibility of the conservation measures that are intended to further reduce movement of Enlist One and Enlist Duo off of treated fields after application.
Next Steps
After the 60-day public comment period, EPA will provide FWS with the comments for its consideration before it finalizes the BiOp. The issuance of the final BiOp is the last step in EPA’s formal consultation process with FWS. Once FWS issues its final BiOp, EPA will work with the registrants to implement it.
The draft BiOp is available for public comment in docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2021-0957.
Click here to submit a public comment to the docket
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.
- 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 June 2, 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.
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
State of the Science Webinar: Ecological Restoration and the Northeast Seed Network
New York Invasive Species Awareness Week (NYISAW) for our next State of the Science webinar on the topic of restoration. Our featured speakers will include James Aronson and Eve Allen of the Ecological Health Network. James Aronson is a long-time restoration practitioner with four decades of experience in the field, is a Co-Founder of the Ecological Health Network and Emeritus senior scientist at Missouri Botanical Garden. Even Allen is the Program Director of Northeast Initiatives at Ecological Health Network, where they are working to advance the science and practice of ecological restoration. We’re excited to bring together expertise on this topic, so stay tuned for details and registration in the coming weeks!
June 9 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Register here: https://cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pra6lyfBQwi9VpR4RNWF5w
Bilingual Pesticide Labeling National Webinar
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting a public webinar on Thursday, June 15, 2023, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm EST to obtain input from the public on ways to make bilingual pesticide labeling accessible to farmworkers as required by the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2022 (PRIA 5).
The majority of our nation’s two million farmworkers speak Spanish. This effort will advance environmental justice by ensuring those farmworkers have access to important health and safety information on pesticide labels in their native language. During the webinar, EPA will provide a brief overview of the PRIA 5 requirements on bilingual pesticide labeling and milestones. PRIA 5 amended the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, requiring Spanish language translation for key health and safety sections of the end-use pesticide product labels where the translation is available in the EPA Spanish Translation Guide for Pesticide Labeling. The Spanish language translation must appear on the pesticide product container or on a link to the translation via scannable technology or other electronic methods readily accessible on the product label. These translations are required on a rolling schedule from December 2025 to December 2030 depending on the type of product and the toxicity category. PRIA 5 also requires EPA to begin to seek stakeholder input on ways to make bilingual pesticide labeling accessible to farmworkers by June 30, 2023, and to implement a plan to ensure that farmworkers have access to the bilingual pesticide labeling by December 2025.
As EPA determines the next steps in developing a plan to make bilingual pesticide labels accessible to farmworkers, the Agency is interested in feedback on the following items.
- What communication approaches, processes or strategies should the Agency consider to ensure bilingual pesticide labels are accessible to farmworkers?? What specific approaches should the Agency avoid or adopt when implementing efforts to best ensure access by farmworkers to bilingual pesticide labels?
- What technologies, mobile applications, and internet access should the Agency consider? Would web-based labels be accessible to farmworkers? How should the Agency overcome internet connectivity issues that some farmworkers may face?
- How can the Agency effectively share health and safety information on pesticide labels with farmworkers? What should on-the-ground logistics look like? Which entities (e.g., community-based organizations) should the Agency work with to provide label information to farmworkers?
- As the Agency implements actions to meet this requirement, how can EPA effectively increase farmworker access to bilingual pesticide labels (e.g., communication plans, outreach strategies)?
Attendees have two options for webinar participation – listen only or listen and speak during the webinar to provide recommendations to EPA. Speakers will have up to three minutes to provide recommendations to the Agency depending on the number of participants interested in providing remarks. Speakers must register for the event by Friday, June 9th. Attendees can register any time until the start of the webinar as a listen only participant.
Following the webinar, EPA will open a comment period for 60 days through a Federal Register Notice to obtain written input on ways to make bilingual pesticide labeling accessible to farmworkers. Further information about the public docket will be provided during the event and in future EPA announcements.
Stakeholders are encouraged to share this announcement with their networks. This webinar will be held in English with Spanish and American Sign Language interpretation services.
Climate Smart IPM - Key to US Ag Resilience
Timely webinar for producers, crop advisors, food and fiber sustainability professionals, policy makers, climate program leaders: Learn about all the ways IPM benefits climate, and potential to capture carbon credits and climate benefits from Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices in your own operations, your producer clients and your supply chains!
Weather and climate impact pest abundance and distribution, as well as farmer, rancher and forester options and decisions. Producers can apply IPM to address new and emerging climate-driven pest challenges, but also to sequester carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adaptation, mitigation, sequestration and emissions reduction through Climate Smart IPM practices improves the resilience of producer operations and of US ag and our food and fiber supply chains. Hear more about the science of valuing IPM practices for climate benefits, now in its infancy, and about our public and private-sector opportunities to expand producer contributions by filling research gaps and developing protocols for valuation and programs to support producers with technical and financial assistance.
Hosted by the Climate, Ecosystem Services and IPM Alliance and sponsored by the North Central IPM Center. Presented by Dr. Thomas Green, board president, IPM Institute. Registration required.
When: May 31, 2023 12:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_z4n0N0WAQJCKnIEMzCIMRQ
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
June 5th, 12 – 1 pm Finger Lakes PRISM Spring Webinar Series will culminate during NY Invasive Species Awareness Week with a presentation by Founder and Principal of Landscape Interactions Evan Abramson. Evan will be leading us through a discussion and discovery about the key role that biodiversity plays in solving the climate crisis. The team at Landscape Interactions specializes in designing landscapes and planning corridors that build biodiversity and strengthen ecological resilience to a changing climate at the ecosystems level.
Register for your virtual seat here: fingerlakesinvasives.org/2023-spring-webinar-series
NYS Invasive Species Awareness Week is June 5th to June 11th. The mission of the New York Invasive Species Awareness Week (NYISAW) is to promote knowledge and understanding of invasive species and the harm they can cause. We want to empower YOU to stop the spread of invasive species! Organizations across all of New York State are offering a variety of engaging events, such as interpretive hikes, volunteer days, webinars, movie screenings, and fun family activities! By participating in NYISAW, you can help protect your community’s natural spaces, learn about the emerging invasive species, meet your neighbors, get outdoors, and even win prizes!
See a full calendar of NYSAW events, including Finger Lakes PRISM events here: https://nyis.info/events/month/2023-06/
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC)
About the Natural Resources and Lands Management Division - The Natural Resources and Lands Management (NRLM) Division within the Water Enterprise of the SFPUC is responsible for the management of approximately 61,000 acres of Bay Area watershed lands under SFPUC ownership as well as 150 miles of utility right-of-way. NRLM Division is responsible for managing, protecting, restoring, and monitoring the ecological resources on these lands and environmental compliance for the operations and maintenance of the Hetch Hetchy Regional Water System which serves 2.7 million customers. We are committed to responsible natural resources management that protects and restores viable populations of native species and maintains the integrity of the ecosystems that support them for current and future generations. We strive to become a leader in science-based and collaborative environmental stewardship in order to continue providing high-quality and reliable water supplies to our customers.
About the Position- Under general supervision, the Integrated Pest Management Specialist inspects trees, shrubs, grass, rights of way (roads, flood control channels, transportation corridors, lots, landscaping and easements, etc.), bodies of water and structures for evidence of various pests and related damage, and takes appropriate steps to resolve problems. The position manages pests using biological, cultural, mechanical, physical and chemical controls with emphasis on the least toxic approach.
Application Opening Date: Wedensday, May 3, 2023
• Application Filing Deadline: Friday, June 2, 2023 at 11:59PM (PDT)
• Recruitment ID: PBT-3424-132591/ RTF0132510-01114884
• Location: 100 San Andreas Valley Road, Burlingame, CA 94011
Postdoctoral Research Scientist-Horticulture/Plant Science
Penn State’s Department of Plant Science (https://plantscience.psu.edu/) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct research and Extension activities on Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation (ASD) within the framework of a collaborative interdisciplinary project funded by the USDA-NIFA OREI program and investigating the use of ASD for Enhancing and Advancing the Sustainability of Organic Crop Production.
Using agronomic and laboratory procedures for soil and plant analysis, the primary goal of the research will be to optimize and evaluate opportunities for integrating ASD in organic vegetable and strawberry crop systems and assess the short- and long-term impact of ASD on nutrient dynamics, soil ecology/microbiology, soilborne pests and pathogens, soil health, crop physiology and yield and quality performance.
The candidate will be supervised by Dr. Francesco Di Gioia and will be working with an interdisciplinary team of researchers with expertise in horticulture, soil microbiology, plant pathology, nematology, biogeochemistry, ecosystem science and management, and agricultural economics.
Location: Primary work location will be Penn State, University Park located at State College, in Central Pennsylvania.
Specialist - Outreach-Fixed Term
Michigan State University
The Department of Entomology at Michigan State University (MSU) invites applications for a full?time, 12 month fixed-term Academic Specialist with a 100% outreach assignment. The position start date is anticipated to be 1 July 2023. Funding is available for this position for up to three years, renewable based on program performance.
The Pesticide Safety Education Program Coordinator (PSEP) position promotes responsible decision-making and actions to protect pesticide users, public, plant and animal health, and the environment. They offer information, training, and resources for pesticide applicators and the general public. To achieve these goals, the PSEP Coordinator is expected to work closely with partners in the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), Michigan State University Extension, and industry interest groups. The PSEP Coordinator is expected to be the go-to resource within Michigan on the safe use of pesticides and to provide programing on pesticide, integrated pest management (IPM), health, safety and environmental education for the public. The audience includes growers, pest control professionals, public land managers, Master Gardeners, and others. The PSEP Coordinator is responsible for maintaining updated pesticide training manuals and materials, and they are expected to engage with relevant regulatory agencies to maintain a strong understanding of pesticide regulations. They are also expected to communicate and collaborate with PSEP Coordinators in other states through regional and national education interest groups and professional societies such as AAPSE (American Association of Pesticide Safety Educators).
A key focus area for the incoming PSEP Coordinator will be to engage with a diversity of audiences, including those that have been historically underserved. The PSEP Coordinator will be expected to be innovative and creative when developing new training programs and materials and will be encouraged to seek external funding to support these efforts. The incoming PSEP Coordinator will also be expected to facilitate technology adoption by target audiences for training and to build capacity for new technology use within MSU and partner agencies.
In addition, the PSEP Coordinator is encouraged to be a collaborative member of project teams within the Entomology and other allied departments at MSU when expertise in safe pesticide use and education is needed.
Review of applications begins June 1st, 2023
WNY PRISM Education and Outreach Assistant
The Western New York Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (WNY PRISM)
The WNY PRISM Education and Outreach Assistant will work closely with WNY PRISM staff and partners to implement and expand our education, outreach and community science programs, and will report directly to the WNY PRISM Community Science and Engagement Program Manager. Education efforts are essential to the success of the partnership and are integrated into nearly all aspects of WNY PRISM’s work. The selected candidate will help maintain the WNY PRISM social media accounts and Listserv, update and develop invasive species educational materials, prepare e-newsletters, organize and lead education events, maintain detailed records, and communicate with partners. In addition, the Education and Outreach Assistant will assist with invasive species management activities such as invasive species surveys, removal and habitat restoration projects, as needed. WNY PRISM seeks highly motivated candidates with the education and experience necessary to succeed.
WNY PRISM is a supportive and collaborative environment that will provide the opportunity to learn and work within all aspects of invasive species management. Individuals will gain valuable experience and increase their skill level in the fields of public outreach and education, program development, materials development, volunteer coordination, and invasive species management.
This is a full-time, temporary position (40 hours/week @ $17.00/hour), which starts as soon as possible and continues through September 22, 2023. The E&O Assistant will work Tuesday – Saturday, with Sunday/Monday off.
Position is open until filled and review of applications will begin immediately.
IR-4 Project Program Operations Coordinator
The IR-4 Project Program Operations Coordinator will work to ensure project objectives are met, office and meeting spaces are operated, budgets are managed and adhered to, meetings are professionally planned and executed, and support is provided to scientists to ensure on-time grant deliverables. Specific activities include but are not limited to:
- Independently manage core administrative activities (bookkeeping, human resource items, etc.);
- Provide support with student and staff hiring and onboarding;
- Track and manage resource allocation, procurement activities, and managing contracts;
- Assist with the management of project accounting, contracts, and subcontracts;
- Manage the procurement of supplies and services;
- Lead the planning and execution of logistics with the team, from contract to post-meeting surveys, professional meetings, and events;
- Overall management of project office and meeting spaces;
- Provide guidance and support with the travel needs and activities of headquarter project members, and stakeholders as needed;
- Maintain and meet project schedules and timelines;
- Generate and disseminate resources and information to stakeholders;
- Supervision of others as required;
- Must be able to travel to attend IR-4 National Meetings as required;
- Special projects.
Watercraft Inspection Steward Positions Statewide
FL PRISM recruitment for regional Watercraft Inspection Stewards is on-going. With several positions on this team still available, the Steward program affords burgeoning conservation professionals the opportunity to work outdoors on our beautiful lakeshores, help protect our regional waters, and building important interpersonal, communication, and plat ID skills. FLI/FL PRISM Stewards are paid hourly at $16.50 per hour. (Please distribute to your networks - link to flier below).
Apply today! https://www.hws.edu/offices/hr/employment/summer.aspx
NYS Parks and SUNY ESF Watercraft Steward Positions on Cayuga and Conesus Lake, Statewide. 6 positions are available at boat launch sites around the Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands, Oak Orchard, and Buffalo areas through the SUNY Research Foundation. Stewards are paid hourly at $15.65 per hour. Send a resume, cover letter, and three references in one attachment to mbroda@esd.edu, and indicate preferred work locations in cover letter.
New York State Federation of Lake Associations (NYSFOLA) are hiring an executive director. New York State Federation of Lake Associations – NYSFOLA – is a not-for-profit connecting individuals and groups dedicated to the protection and restoration of lakes across the state. Successful applicant will be responsible for developing, planning, organizing, evaluating, and directing NYSFOLA’s operations and programs, program development and policy implementation and procedures and operational reporting. Salary range: $70,000 to $85,000. Contact Tarki Heath at tarkiheath@gmail.com for more information.
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) is hiring a Regional Hemlock Coordinator. The Regional Hemlock Program Coordinator will oversee regional efforts to conserve forest and riparian habitat by protecting eastern hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis) from hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae) (HWA). This position will supervise a 10-month SCA position, and potentially two seasonal staff. Position will be supervised in the Finger Lakes Region as part of the regional Environmental Field Team, and will report findings and coordinate contracted treatments through the Invasive Species Unit based in Albany, NY (ISU). Follow link for more info: https://statejobs.ny.gov/employees/vacancyDetailsView.cfm?id=130187
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.
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.