IPM News and Events Roundup 01/27/23
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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Northeastern IPM Center News
This past fall, the Northeastern IPM Center launched a series of webinars to highlight and foster diversity in IPM. We 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.
To learn more, register for an upcoming webinar, or view recordings of past webinars in the series, visit www.northeastipm.org/ipm-in-action/deij-in-ipm/
If you registered for "Language Justice: A Webinar on the Intersection of Language, Justice, and Agriculture Offering Practical Strategies for Cross-language Communication" with Adriana Pericchi and Ethan Grundberg on January 9, 2023.
We hope you enjoyed it, and for those who missed it, the recording is available at the following link: https://neipmc.org/go/CLhm
Research
The Good, the Bad, and the Risky: Can Birds Be Incorporated as Biological Control Agents into Integrated Pest Management Programs? (academic.oup.com)
Authored by: Karina Garcia, Elissa M Olimpi, Daniel S Karp, David J Gonthier
Some bird species often benefit farmers by suppressing invertebrate crop pests, yet birds are rarely considered in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. This is likely because some bird species pose risks to farmers through crop damage, intraguild predation, and food safety concerns. Nonetheless, the benefits of some bird species on crop production are often substantial. Therefore, understanding when birds are most likely to enhance crop production (and when they are most likely to depress it) is crucial for designing effective IPM strategies. Here, we briefly review the literature on birds in agricultural systems, discuss examples of how birds can provide services and disservices to crops, examine factors that influence the net effects of birds, and discuss emerging tools that will help fill key knowledge gaps surrounding the complex roles of birds in agricultural systems.
Authored by: Dalton Ludwick, William R Morrison, III, Angelita L Acebes-Doria, Arthur M Agnello, J Christopher Bergh, Matthew L Buffington, George C Hamilton, Jayson K Harper, Kim A Hoelmer, Gregory Krawczyk, Thomas P Kuhar, Douglas G Pfeiffer, Anne L Nielsen, Kevin B Rice, Cesar Rodriguez-Saona, Peter W Shearer, Paula M Shrewsbury, Elijah J Talamas, James F Walgenbach, Nik G Wiman, Tracy C Leskey
This article is from 2020 but I thought well worth a re-visit.
Halyomorpha halys (Stål), the brown marmorated stink bug, is a globally invasive stink bug species. Its first major outbreak was in the United States, where it has caused millions of dollars in damage, threatened livelihoods of specialty crop growers and impacted row crop growers, and become an extreme nuisance pest in and around dwellings. The BMSB IPM Working Group, funded by the Northeastern IPM Center, was central to providing a mechanism to form a multidisciplinary team and develop initial and subsequent research, Extension, regulatory and consumer priorities. Ultimately, a project team consisting of over 50 scientists from 11 institutions in 10 states obtained the largest ever USDA-NIFA Specialty Crop Research Initiative CAP grant, totaling over $10.7 million, to tackle this crisis over a 5-yr period (2011–2016). Researchers and Extension educators integrated stakeholder feedback throughout the course of the project, and priorities evolved according to needs of affected growers and public stakeholders.
Use of Ecological Theory to Understand the Efficacy and Mechanisms of Multistrain Biological Control (apsjournals.apsnet.org)
Authored by: Gabriel Price-Christenson and Anthony Yannarell
Since the 1970s, over 6,500 articles have been published about microbial biocontrols and over 200 microbial isolates have been registered for commercial use. However, many of these solutions have seen limited use due to limitations with their in-field efficacy. Even when multiple biocontrol agents are combined to create multistrain biocontrols, the resulting combinations can be less effective than the individual agents. One likely contributor is due to how multistrain microbial biocontrols are created. Multistrain microbial biocontrols are generally produced under controlled settings that are divorced from the ecological conditions they will need to function under. Traditionally, researchers’ culture, identify, and screen isolates for pathogen suppression traits. Then these researchers will combine the most promising isolates in an attempt to create more effective solutions. This approach, while effective for identifying suppressive isolates and determining the mechanisms of pathogen suppression, does not take into consideration the variability of natural environments, nor the complex ecological interactions that occur between plant hosts, pathogens, and component biocontrol agents, thus limiting the range of circumstances that these multistrain solutions can reliably succeed.
Research in the News
International IPM Program Drives Sustainable Management of Tomato Leafminer (entomologytoday.org)
The lepidopteran pest Tuta absoluta is one of the world’s most devastating phytophagous species affecting tomato plants and fresh tomatoes, causing high levels of crop production loss, especially when no control strategies are implemented. Tuta absoluta—sometimes known as the tomato leafminer, tomato pinworm, or tomato moth—continues to cause crop losses in the Americas, where it originates, but more recently it has invaded production areas in Europe, Asia, and Africa, owing to the globalization of commerce and trade, which, along with other factors, is considered responsible for the increase in invasive species.
Research Summary: "Have Impacts, Will Travel" - A Database of Invasive Plants from Around the World (Northeast RISCC Management)
Knowing that an introduced species is invasive elsewhere is an important factor for proactively identifying risk of invasion in a new range, particularly as climate change alters the ranges of introduced species. Lots of lists of invasive and regulated plants exist and have been compiled by various states, countries, and NGOs. But, these lists use different methods and are hard to find, making them difficult to use as a single go to source of invasive plants in the world. Laginhas & Bradley (2022) compiled a database of invasive plants globally from 5,893 scientific papers (retrieved from Web of Science using a keyword search for invasi* plant) published through 2020.
Effect of Encasement Presence and Type of Material Used on Bed Bug Distribution (pctonline.com)
Researchers at the Rutgers University discuss the results of a study designed to evaluate the impact of the presence of encasements and the encasement material type (vinyl or fabric) on bed bug distribution.
Editor's note: Shannon Sked, B.C.E., who co-authored the study, discusses what surprised him, what the challenges were and more in a video.
The public health impact of bed bugs in multifamily dwelling (MFD) communities is well established (Reinhardt and Siva-Jothy 2007, Doggett et al. 2012, Aultman 2013) and is both costly (Wang et al. 2009, Potter et al. 2013, Stedfast and Miller 2014) and difficult (Doggett et al. 2012) to control. Successful bed bug management in MFDs has been difficult for the industry to achieve since control strategies are typically reactive, lacking a proactive monitoring system to detect novel introductions or dispersing populations (Romero et al. 2017).
Other News
Neonicotinoids given emergency authorization in the UK (bbc.com)
Permission to use a neonicotinoid on sugar beet seeds has been given to protect the crop from a particularly damaging virus spread by aphids. The authorization was given against the advice of an independent panel of pesticide experts.
Pest Talks (growertalks.com)
Knowledge from JC Chong, Professor of Entomology at Clemson University
BotryStop WP
- Introduction
- Efficacy
Thrips parvispinus
- Biology
- Management
New SARE Publication Available to Farmers Seeking Organic Certification (nifa.usda.gov)
Farmers and ranchers who want to pursue organic certification now have a new publication to help understand USDA National Organic Program requirements and key strategies producers can use to make their three-year transition to organic production a successful one.
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticide (SGAR) use in British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)
To reduce the risk of wildlife poisoning, new requirements for the sale and use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides are in effect on January 21, 2023.
SGARs can also pose a serious risk to people, pets and wildlife through direct and secondary poisoning. The risk of secondary poisoning for wildlife by SGARs is higher than first-generation products because the active ingredients stay in animal tissue for a long time after feeding.
EPA Approves Post-Harvest Tolerance for Blueberry Growers (ir4project.org)
Blueberries are big business in the U.S., contributing $4.7 billion to the annual GDP, according to the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council. Twenty-six U.S. states count blueberries as a major commercial crop, and work hard to deliver this wildly popular fruit to kitchen tables across the country (and around the world).
In response to strong consumer cravings, growers from North Carolina to California are seeking ways to store and distribute their fresh crop with less waste, higher quality, and better profit margins. Delivering fresh berries to consumers is a race against rot — especially for growers interested in the export market. Post-harvest control of Botrytis fruit rot, Alternaria rot, and surface mold in fresh blueberries is essential for market viability and fruit quality. However, few options have been available to growers to slow the development of these diseases and keep more berries fresh for consumers.
How do you vaccinate a honeybee? 6 questions answered about a new tool for protecting pollinators (theconversation.com)
Honeybees, which pollinate one-third of the crops Americans eat, face many threats, including infectious diseases. On Jan. 4, 2023, a Georgia biotechnology company called Dalan Animal Health announced that it had received a conditional license from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a vaccine designed to protect honeybees against American foulbrood, a highly destructive infection.
To receive a conditional license, which usually lasts for one year and is subject to further evaluation by the USDA, veterinary biological products must be shown to be pure, safe and reasonably likely to be effective. Dr. Jennie Durant, an agriculture researcher at the University of California, Davis, who specializes in honeybee health, explains why this vaccine is potentially an important step in ongoing efforts to protect pollinators.
Aggressive Frog-Eating Fish That Breathes Air Found in New Part of Florida (newsweek.com)
An aggressive frog-eating fish that breathes air has been found in new part of Florida, raising concerns over the amount of damage the invasive species could do. The goldline snakehead was unexpectedly discovered in a freshwater pond in Manatee County by scientists from the University of Florida's Museum of Natural History. This is the first time the fish has been found in the Gulf Coast region. Snakeheads are freshwater fishes native to Asia and Africa. It is believed they came to America through aquarium dumping’s and fish market releases.
Yale honors young scientist who was the subject of police complaint (ysph.yale.edu)
Nine-year-old Bobbi Wilson was the subject of a police complaint in her hometown of Caldwell, New Jersey while she was working to eradicate the invasive spotted lanternfly from her neighborhood. The incident made national news and prompted a discussion about racial profiling.
Egg prices are high, could go higher (morningagclips.com)
Egg prices continue to set all-time per-dozen price records, and a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert does not expect that trend to reverse in the near future. David Anderson, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension economist, Bryan-College Station, said inflationary pressure and the worst avian flu outbreak in U.S. history have combined to send egg prices upward over much of the last year.
For a year-to-year comparison, prices reached $4.25 per dozen on average in December 2022 across the nation, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture retail egg report. A dozen eggs was $1.79 at the same time last year.
Slightly Off the IPM Path
How to tell if an egg has gone bad (bonappetit.com)
I know I am not the only one that found expired food in our family’s refrigerator over the Holiday’s. Not to name names but my Mother is notorious for squeezing the last drop of any condiment or scraping any mold off cheese to get her last dime out of a product. Her eggs are no different, I mean who can blame her with the price of eggs now, but she had no idea that eggs even went bad. A foodie she is not! So, I thought this was a good share for everyone.
A bright future for dairy sustainability (cals.cornell.edu)
NMSP’s Dairy Sustainability Key Indicators Project partners with farmers and farm advisers to conduct research that shows precisely how dairy farmers are making strides in such areas as nutrient use, greenhouse gas emissions, water use, water quality impacts, animal and plant production efficiencies, and biodiversity on farms. Chobani is one of the biggest funders for this project in the hopes to develop and identify how applied research can help the industry make informed decisions about nutrients across the farm.
Hear from three farmers participating in the Dairy Sustainability Key Indicators Project and learn more about the impacts of NMSP’s applied research.
Virginia Tech researchers developing method to improve long-term storage of pears (vtx.vt.edu)
To help keep prices low and pears fresh longer, Virginia Tech researchers in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences are examining how fresh pears change during storage and how this information can be used to keep food safety risks low over time.
Requests for Input
EPA’s Workplan for Endangered Species is seeking comments
The EPA is seeking comments on the Endangered Species Act (ESA) Workplan Update. Proposed changes to pesticide labeling are found in the appendix beginning on page 21, which is where feedback to questions asked is being solicited.
The example label language in the table on page 28 has fourteen MITIGATION measures listed that would apply to both surface water runoff and soil erosion mitigation. Depending on the product being applied, a grower will have to pick at least one (likely more) and have it in place to legally apply the product. The mitigation measures are long term measures a grower will need to implement and maintain on their farms. They are not something that can be thought about after a pest problem is noticed.
As you read through the descriptions of the 14 measures (pages 29-37), consider whether growers have at least some in place already or if there will be problems. Note the size requirements of the different measures and consider smaller and/or specialty farms. Also comment if there are measures that farmers are already taking that should be added to the pick list.
There are also changes to prevent drift outlined by application method in the tables on pages 41-46 and changes to how pesticide treated seeds are handles and disposed of (by burying) explained in section 6 and pollinator stewardship in section 7.
These new requirements will start appearing on all pesticide labels and it sounds like the rollout will be as quick as possible. This is the time to communicate to EPA about any problems these requirements might pose in specific cropping systems.
Comments due by February 14, 2023, here: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/EPA-HQ-OPP-2022-0908/document
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.
- February 3: Indoor cockroaches | Pet flea/tick treatments
- March 3: Carpenter ants | Carpenter bees
- April 7: Avoiding wildlife at home | Slug/snail management
- 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 February 3, 2023.
The Vector Biology Boot Camp is offered by the Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases to provide hands-on learning opportunities in vector surveillance program operations.
The program is designed for vector-borne disease professionals working in the Northeast, covering tick and mosquito species of medical importance to this region. Ideal program applicants include professionals whose job duties specifically involve vector surveillance and/or control.
We are happy to announce that the in-person Vector Biology Boot Camp is back! We will be hosting this 3-day hands-on training event in partnership with the Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension in May 2023.
- When: Tuesday May 16 to Thursday May 18, 2023
- Where: Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center, 215 Innovation Blvd., State College, PA 16803
- Cost: Attendance to this event is no-cost. Participant housing and meals are included. Attendees are responsible for travel to and from the training site.
- Agenda: The final agenda for the 2023 Vector Biology Boot Camp will be available shortly. You can access a general overview of the modules included in this training event here.
Complete the application form below by Monday January 30, 2023, for consideration for the 2023 Vector Biology Boot Camp program. We will notify accepted applicants in February 2023.
Food Solutions and the Climate Crisis
Register separately for each session using live links.
Webinar Series - Thursdays, February 2 – March 16, 2023 - 3pm ET
- 2 February – What is Food Doing to the Climate? What is the Climate Doing to Food? – Dr. Michael Hoffmann, Professor Emeritus, Cornell Department of Entomology and author, Our Changing Menu
- 9 February – Reducing CO2 Emissions in Dairy and Beef: Promising Research/Technologies – Jenifer Wightman, Senior Extension Associate, Cornell School of Integrative Plant Sciences, Soil and Crop Sciences Section
- 16 February – Farm to School Programs in NY – Panel Discussion featuring the Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest New York Team
- 23 February – Plant-Rich Diet Efforts in Extension Programs in New York State and Beyond – with Jenna Walczak, Ag Climate Resiliency Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest NY
- 2 March – Alternative Proteins – Rajni Aneja, Managing Director, Cornell Institute for Food Systems Industry Partnership Program (CIFS-IPP), Food Science
- 9 March – Reducing Food Waste Educational Programs – Karen Mort, Cornell Cooperative Extension Resource Educator, Albany County, and Dr. Lori Leonard, Professor and Chair, Cornell Global Development
- 16 March – What is Next? Moving Forward with Food Systems and Climate Education – Featuring Jenna Walczak, Agriculture Climate Resiliency Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension Harvest New York
For questions, contact Marianne Krasny (mek2@cornell.edu) or Celeste Carmichael (cjc17@cornell.edu). Use “Food Climate Webinar” in subject line.
Lobster mobsters, jumping plant lice, and more invasive species talks coming
Invasive species pose a threat to Michigan's environment, economy, and sometimes even human health. What is at stake? What is being done? This webinar series will explore how agencies, universities and locally led organizations are working together to protect Michigan's natural resources through the Michigan Invasive Species Program. If you are concerned about the impacts of invasive species or interested in the techniques used to control them, join us as we examine species-specific actions, innovations in research and technology, and programs designed to help communities prevent and manage harmful invasive species. A question-and-answer period will follow each presentation.
Exploiting the Vulnerabilities of Weeds
Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Regional Capital Area Agriculture & Horticulture Program and the Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Program are pleased to present “Exploiting the Vulnerabilities of Weeds” on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Farmers who grow field crops, vegetable crops, fruit crops, and horticultural crops will learn weed biology and how to exploit weed vulnerabilities to develop a cultural weed management plan and improve the effectiveness of herbicides. Pesticide applicator recertification credits will be available.
Weeds are a universal challenge for all farmers. Fortunately, much research has been done over the last several years to understand weeds and develop cultural techniques to manage them. Herbicides are also more effective when strategized based on weed biology. Several weed experts from Cornell University and the University of Illinois will present at this workshop, along with experienced farmers and Cornell Cooperative Extension educators. Farmers do not have to be frustrated with weeds anymore. The workshop will provide a foundation of weed management for all farmers.
March 7, 2023, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Italian-American Community Center, 257 Washington Ave. Ext., Albany, NY 12205
Cost: $60.00 per person
Registration: https://caahp.ccext.net/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=169
On-line Greenhouse Scout School
Cornell University is partnering with the University of Vermont and the University of Maine to offer a 6-week webinar series in scouting for disease, insect and weed pests of greenhouse ornamentals. Learn how to identify the major pests of greenhouse floriculture crops, make scouting faster and easier, communicate with growers and owners, and find resources to help.
Sessions will be led by Stephanie Barnett, Margery Daughtrey, Betsy Lamb, Elise Lobdell, John Sanderson and Cheryl Sullivan.
Learn to identify the major pests of greenhouse floriculture crops, make scouting faster and easier, communicate with growers and owners, and find resources to help.
February 1st – March 8th
Certificate Program: 6–7:30 p.m.
Webinar Series: 6:30-7:30 p.m.
UMass Extension’s Invasive Insect Webinar Series 2023
Join UMass Extension’s Landscape, Nursery, and Urban Forestry Program and UMass Extension’s Fruit Program presents for this series of FREE webinars focusing on the impact, monitoring, and management of invasive insects in Massachusetts and the nation! Topics to include spotted lanternfly updates, management, and entomopathogens, forest pest risk re. climate change; the beech leaf disease nematode; and invasive forest insects. Please note while participants from anywhere are invited to attend, much of the material presented will be specific to Massachusetts and New England.
Event date/time:
Wednesday, February 8, 2023 - 9:00am
Wednesday, February 22, 2023 - 9:00am
Event Type: Online
Price: Free (grant subsidized)
Don Downing originated the program in 1986. Cornell’s Pesticide Management Education Program took it over in 1996, with Ron Gardner running the workshop until his retirement in 2017. The workshop addresses a variety of pest problems and management strategies, proper pesticide use, and regulatory perspectives. It focuses on the food industry, with post-workshop sessions that broaden the scope to include general structural pest control and/or space and commodity fumigation.
If you register by 5:00 p.m. on January 26th, 2023, the registration fee is $135 to attend the February 7th Food Processing Session, $80 to attend the February 8th Structural Session, or $200 to attend both sessions. After that time, registration will be an additional $10. Registration includes refreshment breaks and (for Tuesday only) lunch. You can register and pay online with a credit card or by mail with a check. Please make your check payable to Cornell University and send your information to the address listed on the mail-in registration form
Event Date: February 7th and 8th, 2023. RIT Inn & Conference Center, Henrietta, NY
Join us on February 23-24, 2023, at USDA's largest and premiere annual gathering!
USDA’s 99th annual Agricultural Outlook Forum (AOF), will be held in-person at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott on February 23-24, 2023, and all sessions will be livestreamed on a virtual platform.
More than 30 sessions and 100 agriculture leaders and subject matter experts will discuss key issues impacting the sector including:
- USDA’s initial forecast for the agricultural economy, commodity markets, and trade in 2023 and the U.S. farm income situation
- Climate smart agriculture
- Supply chain challenges and solutions
- Factors impacting U.S. trade update & the global marketplace
- Food prices outlook
The RISCC management symposium brings together natural resource managers, scientists, and the invasive species community to discuss challenges and solutions to managing habitats dually impacted by invasive species and climate change. Our next symposium will take place virtually via Zoom on February 14-15th, 2023. Sessions will take place over two days from 11:00am-3:30pm (Eastern) each day. Be sure to register in advance, and check back for the agenda in early 2023!
Enhancing Overwintering Hypena opulenta Surveys & Swallow-wort Control on Carleton Island
Hosted by SLELO PRISM’s Eastern Lake Ontario Swallow Wort Collaborative (ELOSC) please join us on Monday, February 13th from 1 pm-2 pm for an informative webinar
This webinar will share SLELO PRISM’s hypena opulenta release and survey history, along with plans to enhance H. opulenta overwintering surveying efforts through partner and volunteer engagement; Thousand Island Land Trust will also be sharing the history and management practices of swallow-wort control conducted on Carleton Island.
Event Date: February 13 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Spotted lanternfly in Massachusetts: Quarterly Update, February 2023
Quarterly series of webinars, hosted by the Mass. Dept. of Agricultural Resources, to provide the green industry, environmental groups, and other interested parties with the latest information about spotted lanternfly occurrences, survey updates, and more. This 1-hour session is eligible for the following education credits: 1 Mass. pesticide license credit (all categories and license types), 1 MA Forestry or Timber Harvesters License credit, and the following association credits: 1 MCA credit, 1 MCH credit, 1 MCLP credit, ¾ ISA credit, or ½ MQTW credit; attendance for the full session and response to poll questions will be required to receive credits.
February 15, 2023, 10:00 AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Description: The insect world is diverse and includes a collection of critters that provide important
functions in the ecosystem. Some are pollinators, some decomposers, and many are food for the birds,
reptiles and mammals we enjoy in our landscapes. To avoid becoming a food item and defend their
colony, some insects sting, while others bite to obtain food. This presentation will help you to better
understand the stinging and biting insects found around your home, provide some insights about
reducing encounters with them, and options for effective management when necessary.
We will also discuss:
• Do mosquitos only come out at dusk?
• Brown recluse? Black widow? Joro spider? What is actually in our area?
• What bug is that crawling in my bed?
Other pest arthropods like wasps and biting flies will also be discussed!
Presenter: Dr. Matt Frye, Community IPM Extension Educator with
NYS Integrated Pest Management
February 28, 2023 12:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this webinar here!
Science & Management Webinar of this Invasive Weed
The webinar is intended to share information on control of Japanese knotweed, Fallopia japonica, with researchers, land managers, and landscape professionals who work with riparian weeds. The webinar will emphasize attempts at practical control strategies for California's Central Coast within a broader context of its ecology.
Hosted by the Marin Knotweed Action Team (MKAT).
Save the date
DATE: Wednesday, March 1, 2023
SPEAKERS & AGENDA: coming soon
REGISTRATION: opens in 2023
QUESTIONS: email llevinger@ucanr.edu
Online registration is now open for The Native Plant Center's 2023 Spring Landscape Conference, Sources and Solutions: Essential Native Plant Partnerships, March 13. The event will take place virtually.
Whether in a forest, meadow, or yard, ecological restoration takes a big-picture approach and the cooperation of many people. Discover strategies being used to confront challenges such as invasive species, climate change, and native plant supplies and how you play a role.
Event Details
Date: March 13, 2023
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Information: See event details and Essential Native Plant Partnerships here.
Please register by March 9, 2023 – 5:00 p.m.
Employment Opportunities
Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Beneficial Insects Lab
UMass Amherst
Conduct research on biological control of the emerald ash borer (EAB) with a focus on population dynamics of both the target pests and introduced parasitoids. Research will occur both in a laboratory and in forests across the U.S. and involves modeling both spatial and temporal dynamics of North American ash recovery in relation to levels of EAB infestations or densities due to the impact of both introduced and endemic natural enemies in various climatic/geographic regions in North America.
Application deadline not listed
Staff Entomologist / Educational Specialist
National Pest Management Association
The Staff Entomologist / Educational Specialist is responsible for development of technical support materials and providing entomological and scientific support for NPMA members and to other NPMA departments.
The National Pest Management Association has a unique culture that empowers individuals to move the Association and Industry forward through new initiatives, innovative solutions, and creative endeavors. Although we have a nearly 90-year history as an organization, NPMA still offer employees the flexibility and ingenuity to make a positive impact on our shared future.
IR-4
The IR-4 Project is seeking a Quality Assurance Auditor to join its headquarters team, based on NC State’s Centennial Campus.
Reporting to the National Quality Assurance Unit Manager, the incumbent is a member of the IR-4 Project Quality Assurance Unit and is responsible for various types of quality assurance audits of IR-4 Project generated raw data and reports. The incumbent would be responsible for performing inspections of field sites and lab analyses during critical phases of a study as well as conducting facility inspections.
This vital role helps ensure the quality and integrity of IR-4 Project submissions to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). Many of the functions of this position are required for the IR-4 Project to achieve compliance with US EPA Federal Good Laboratory Practice Regulations (GLPs – as documented in Chapter 40- Code of Federal Regulations, Part 160).
This is a full-time (40 hours per week), EHRA non-faculty position.
View the job posting and apply here!
Cornell University
This program specializes in integrating basic and applied research to develop new tools in integrative pest management (IPM) science by studying the chemistry and chemical ecology of insect pests. With a focus on plant toxins detoxification mechanisms by insect pests, the aim is to harness RNAi biotechnology to reduce the expression of genes coding for these detoxifying enzymes as a promising alternative to non-selective and resilient insecticides currently used. The research and extension part of this program specializes in developing new methods in analytical chemistry to improve the detection and characterization of insect sex pheromones and plant volatiles, and to test the performance of pheromone lure/trap products to give reliable recommendations to stakeholders on monitoring pest activity in the context of climate change.
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:
Home & Garden: Business Services Specialist
Home & Garden: Program Management Specialist
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 (4 Positions)
1)Baltimore County, 2)Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, 3)Worcester County and 4)Talbot County
Principal Agent and Assistant Director (FCS)
University of Maryland
UME has four major program areas: Agriculture and Food Systems, 4-H Youth Development, Environment & Natural Resources and Sea Grant, and FCS. UME faculty and staff are located at offices in 23 counties and Baltimore City, the 4-H State office, SNAP-Ed State office, and five research and education centers. This position collaborates with Program Leaders, the Assistant Director of Program and Organizational Development, and the Assistant Director of Operations. At the local level, the position works with Area/City Extension directors. The position reports to the UME Associate Dean/Associate Director.
This AD/PL provides leadership and an expansive vision for innovation and excellence of interdisciplinary FCS programs. Responsibilities include identifying emerging issues, prioritizing programs, developing and maintaining university-wide and external partnerships, securing and managing resources for extension education and applied research projects, ensuring innovative and impactful program implementation, and advancing health equity and well-being.
Open until filled with best consideration date: January 30, 2023
Cornell University
We are seeking a Program/Extension Aide II who will closely collaborate with the NYSIPM Digital Outreach and Development Coordinator to take on the following responsibilities in our program.
- Collaboratively build python modules and Django web apps
- Deploy basic Django web apps to test and evaluate python modules using coding best practices.
- Perform basic non-critical planned updates to existing Django web apps, following plan of work documents.
- Research and synthesize new information about online target audience needs.
- Build mockups of digital tool interfaces for user testing.
- Participate in planned Digital Outreach Team meetings and team-building activities.
Urban IPM Area Advisor Applied Research and Extension (Capitol Corridor Area)
University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources
Purpose. The Urban IPM Area Advisor will develop IPM strategies to effectively manage pests in urban areas while protecting public health and the environment. Key clientele includes public agencies, pest management professionals licensed by either the Structural Pest Control Board or the Department of Pesticide Regulation, and unlicensed members of the general public
This position will primarily address the UC ANR condition change of ‘promoting healthy people and communities’ but will also contribute to ‘developing a qualified workforce’ and ‘promoting economic prosperity.’ The three counties of UCCE Capitol Corridor have a combined population of approximately 2.25 million people, which is more than the total populations of 15 states. Closing Date: To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by February 12, 2023 – (open until filled)
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.
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.
Supervisory Research Ecologist/Entomologist/Plant Pathologist
The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) has an opening for a research leader position at the ARS Invasive Plant Research Lab (IPRL) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The position offers a tremendous opportunity for the individual with expertise in invasive plant science and has an interest in a range of ecological and theoretical approaches for research and practical applications for management. The diversity of stakeholders in Florida and the entire region makes for outstanding collaborators and some of the strongest supporters and include local weed management districts, state water agencies, and colleges and universities, as well as private industry and other federal agencies. The team of scientists and support staff the IPRL are second to none and are known internationally for their research on biology, ecology, application technology, and tactics for integrated management. Florida offers some of the best recreational and sight-seeing activities in the country and has year-round warm weather.
WNY PRISM is Hiring! All 2023 Summer Positions are Open!
Join the WNY PRISM team and spend the summer gaining valuable experience in invasive species management! Multiple positions are open with varying responsibilities, timeframes and necessary qualifications, so take a look and see what interests you! The application deadline for all positions is March 3, 2023.
For more information, including full job descriptions and to apply, visit www.rfhiring.com
Funding Opportunities
Two of our critical grants management systems, CREEMS and ezFedGrants, are nearing the end of their lifecycle and require replacement. NIFA will chose a new grants management solution from these Federally managed technology providers.
This Grants Modernization Initiative is a key priority for NIFA, and our goal is to keep you informed and engaged. Ultimately, this initiative will transform how we do business so that it is more seamless for staff and customers, improves our ability to track and report outcomes, and helps achieve the agency mission more efficiently and effectively.?
Crop Protection and Pest Management Competitive Grants Program
USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture
The FY 2023 Request for Applications (RFA) for the Applied Research and Development Program (ARDP) under the Crop Protection and Pest Management (CPPM) Competitive Grants Program is now available
The purpose of the Crop Protection and Pest Management program is to address high priority issues related to pests and their management using IPM approaches at the state, regional and national levels. The CPPM program supports projects that will ensure food security and respond effectively to other major societal pest management challenges with comprehensive IPM approaches that are economically viable, ecologically prudent, and safe for human health. The CPPM program addresses IPM challenges for emerging issues and existing priority pest concerns that can be addressed more effectively with new and emerging technologies. The outcomes of the CPPM program are effective, affordable, and environmentally sound IPM practices and strategies needed to maintain agricultural productivity and healthy communities. ?
Current closing date: February 13, 2022
Methyl Bromide Transition Program
USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture
The Methyl Bromide Transition Program (MBT) addresses the immediate needs and the costs of transition that have resulted from the phase-out of the pesticide methyl bromide. Methyl bromide has been a pest and disease control tactic critical to pest management systems for decades for soilborne and postharvest pests. The program focuses on integrated commercial-scale research on methyl bromide alternatives and associated extension activity that will foster the adoption of these solutions. Projects should cover a broad range of new methodologies, technologies, systems, and strategies for controlling economically important pests for which methyl bromide has been the only effective pest control option. Research projects must address commodities with critical issues and include a focused economic analysis of the cost of implementing the transition on a commercial scale.
The RFA announcement and technical assistance webinar related to this FY 2023 funding opportunity is scheduled. Please access the details about the webinar, such as the zoom link, date, time, etc., through the Webinar heading above.
Current closing date: February 13, 2022
2023 CRISP Request for Proposals
We are pleased to announce the CRISP 2023 Request for Proposals to fund priority invasive species projects in the Catskills region! We will offer funding for those projects that best meet the following CRISP priorities that were identified in the CRISP Strategic Planning that we conducted earlier this year:
Early Detection/Rapid Response for Tier 1 or Tier 2 Species
Raise public awareness of Tier 1 and/or Tier 2 Species
Improve the scientific understanding of the extent, ecological impact, and effective controls of invasive species in the CRISP region.
Selected projects will be funded up to $10,000 and must be completed in 2023. The deadline for applications is February 3rd. Additional information is available here: https://www.catskillinvasives.com/funding
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.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (nrcs.usda.gov)
NRCS works one-on-one with producers to develop a conservation plan that outlines conservation practices and activities to help solve on-farm resource issues. Producers implement practices and activities in their conservation plan that can lead to cleaner water and air, healthier soil and better wildlife habitat, all while improving their agricultural operations. EQIP helps producers make conservation work for them. Financial assistance for practices may be available through EQIP. Some producers may also qualify for advance payment.
Targeted EQIP financial assistance is available through several conservation initiatives. See which initiative is available in your state.