We promote and fund integrated pest management for environmental, human health, and economic benefits.
We promote and fund integrated pest management for environmental, human health, and economic benefits.
Our Center has funded 25 projects this year, including invasive species outreach and regional working groups on pollinators, stink bugs, hops, and slugs.
In New Jersey, a major center of blueberry and cranberry production, entomologists are using pheromones to lure weevils so growers can time their sprays for greatest effectiveness.
Swallow-wort, a rampant invasive species in the Northeast, smothers small trees and native plants. Rhode Island entomologist Richard Casagrande is identifying natural enemies of this pest.
Drosophila suzukii, a small vinegar fly with the potential to damage many fruit crops, has been confirmed in several northeastern states.
Growing Green Lawns website; Brown Marmorated Stink Bug information; New York City’s bed bug site; and Louisiana State’s Pest Identification Guide for Pests in and around Buildings.
IPM proponents persuade school districts to choose pest prevention over sprays. “Schools that switch to IPM show a decline in pesticide use and are still able to keep pests at bay,” says UMass entomologist Bill Coli, who evaluates the impact of IPM projects.