Summer 2011

New IPM Partnership Projects for 2011

Our Center has funded 25 projects this year, including invasive species outreach and regional working groups on pollinators, stink bugs, hops, and slugs.

Decoded Secret Betrays Berry Weevil

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 Biocontrols Pass Test

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.

Spotted Wing Drosophila in the Northeast

Drosophila suzukii, a small vinegar fly with the potential to damage many fruit crops, has been confirmed in several northeastern states.

New IPM Resources, 2011

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.

School IPM: Good for Children, Easy on the Budget

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.