IPM News and Events Roundup 02/02/2024
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
The Biology and Management of Common Invasive Plants in the Northeastern U.S. and Southern Canada
February 27, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. EST
Register at https://neipmc.org/go/fARB
Presenter: Dr. Antonio DiTommaso
This presentation will focus on the biology and management (both chemical and non-chemical) of ten common invasive plants in the northeastern United States and southern Canada. Species covered include Japanese knotweed, buckthorn, swallowworts, honeysuckles, bindweeds, multiflora rose, and Japanese stiltgrass.
The Use of IPM in Beekeeping to Control Parasitic Varroa Mites
March 11, 2024 – 11:00 a.m.
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aG2wk8EKSXC2OTvB70BdrA
Presenter: Dr. Robyn Underwood
During this talk, you will learn about the parts of the IPM pyramid as they relate to controlling the parasitic varroa mite, widely the biggest problem in beekeeping. You will learn about breeding for mite resistance, cultural and mechanical controls, and chemical controls that are both organic-approved and synthetic. These items will be presented as a year in the life of a beekeeping operation.
Dr. Robyn Underwood received her BSc in Entomology and Applied Ecology from the University of Delaware and her PhD in Entomology from the University of Manitoba. As Penn State’s Extension Educator of Apiculture, she conducts scientific research projects to study beekeeper-applied questions and brings the results of the projects to the beekeepers through extension products that aim to make beekeeping a more successful venture.
Kosher, Halal and Insects: How do they relate?
March 25, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. (EST)
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_R0qF_qloSt6k9EsgUWO9UA
Presenter: Dr. Joe Regenstein
Kosher and halal food regulations are an important part of the food industry. Both religious systems are concerned about the practices of modern agriculture including the role of insects and similar animal species. This talk will introduce these dietary laws and then look specifically at how each religion views insects in the food and feed context.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently reviewed four plants modified using genetic engineering to determine whether they posed an increased plant pest risk relative to non-modified comparators:
- GDM Seeds, modified soybean for drought tolerance.
- BioHeuris, modified soybean for herbicide resistance.
- Michigan State University, modified potato for lowered glucose and fructose in tubers.
- ZeaKal, modified soybean for increased seed oil and protein.
APHIS found these modified plants were unlikely to pose an increased plant pest risk compared to other cultivated plants. As a result, they are not subject to regulation under 7 CFR part 340. From a plant pest risk perspective, these modified plants may be safely grown and bred in the United States.
Claims for Pesticide Products
Today, EPA is issuing guidance to clarify how it will evaluate “absence of an ingredient” claims for pesticide products regulated under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). These claims appear on pesticide labeling and state that the product is free of a particular ingredient. “Absence of an ingredient” claims that are false or misleading are not permissible under FIFRA. In limited instances, where information indicates that these types of claims are not false or misleading, EPA will allow these types of claims. In this guidance, EPA discusses some specific “absence of an ingredient” claims commonly proposed by applicants, such as “absence of bleach,” “absence of phosphates,” and “absence of DEET.”
Generally, before a pesticide may be sold or distributed in the U.S., it must be registered with EPA under FIFRA. For a pesticide to meet the FIFRA registration standard, applicants must, among other things, demonstrate that the pesticide product’s labeling is consistent with the requirements of FIFRA. These requirements include that the pesticide not be misbranded. A pesticide may be misbranded if its labeling bears any statement, design, or graphic representation that is false or misleading.
EPA will consider “absence of ingredient” claims on a case-by-case basis and may allow those claims if there is information that ensures the claims are not false or misleading. In addition, in some instances, “absence of an ingredient” claims should include a qualifying statement that is prominently displayed and adjacent to the claim (e.g., “Not a safety claim”), so that the potential to mislead or confuse the public is limited.
EPA’s guidance document discusses some commonly requested “absence of an ingredient” claims.
- For “bleach-free” claims, EPA understands that a “bleach-free” claim is not generally viewed as a safety claim and thus not misleading on certain products because it can help users better understand that bleach is in a product to ensure they do not apply the product to items that bleach may damage (e.g., clothing).
- For “phosphate-free” claims, EPA would generally not consider those claims to be misleading when used on products because phosphates are considered as inert ingredients and have no pesticidal purpose. Since phosphate would typically be added to a formulation as an inert ingredient and would not typically be identified on the label, consumers would not usually be able to discern whether a product contains phosphate or is phosphate free without an explicit label claim. In addition, a declaration of phosphate content on product labels is consistent with EPA’s initiative and actions taken by states and localities to combat nutrient pollution in U.S. waterbodies.
- For “DEET-free” claims, EPA understands that there are reasons consumers want to have information about whether pesticide products contain DEET other than perceptions about its safety (e.g., odor and potential damage to plastic, rubber, vinyl, and elastic on items like clothing and backpacks). Under the guidance, EPA would generally not consider these specific claims to be false or misleading when accompanied by a qualifying statement like the following: “Not a safety claim.” Thus, EPA will generally allow “absence of DEET” claims to be used on the labeling of EPA-registered repellents that are applied to human skin and clothing for insects or ticks, as long as they are qualified to ensure that consumers are not misled about the safety of the product for humans or the environment relative to other products that contain DEET.
The guidance also provides information for how applicants or registrants may add these claims to their pesticide product labeling.
The “Absence of an Ingredient” Claims Guidance is available on EPA’s website under “Product Label Topics.”
View "Absence of an Ingredient" Claim Guidance
EPA's 10 regional offices have staff assigned to respond to inquiries related to their geographical area.
Bed Bugs: Get Them Out and Keep Them Out
Learn About Bed Bugs
Prevent Infestations
Bacteriophage endolysin treatment for systemic infection of Streptococcus iniae in hybrid striped bass (sciencedirect.com | February 2024)
Streptococcus iniae, a zoonotic Gram-positive pathogen, poses a threat to finfish aquaculture, causing streptococcosis with an annual economic impact exceeding $150 million globally. As aquaculture trends shift towards recirculating systems, the potential for horizontal transmission of S. iniae among fish intensifies. Current vaccine development provides only short-term protection, driving the widespread use of antibiotics like florfenicol. However, this practice raises environmental concerns and potentially contributes to antibiotic resistance. Thus, alternative strategies are urgently needed.
Regional pest suppression associated with widespread Bt maize adoption benefits vegetable growers (pnas.org)
Area-wide Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) adoption suppresses pests regionally, with declines expanding beyond the planted Bt crops into other non-Bt crop fields. The offsite benefits to vegetable crops from such pest suppression have not been documented. We show that widespread Bt field corn adoption is strongly associated with marked decreases in the number of recommended insecticidal applications, insecticides applied, and damage to vegetable crops in the United States. These positive impacts to growers, including organic producers, in the agricultural landscape expands on known ecological effects of Bt adoption.
Challenges, successes, and recommendations for management of coastal sandplain grasslands as regional biodiversity hotspots in the northeastern United States (onlinelibrary.wiley.com)
A high proportion of regional plant biodiversity occurs in hotspots of species richness that cover small areas created and maintained by disturbance. Sustaining plant diversity in these areas requires region- and habitat-specific management of disturbance and, increasingly, habitat expansion or restoration to offset species losses. Coastal sandplain grasslands are threatened, disturbance-controlled plant biodiversity hotspots in the northeastern United States. We formed a network of grassland managers and scientists to review the published and unpublished sandplain grassland literature. Additionally, we conducted interviews with grassland managers about management challenges and successes. Principal concerns of managers were increases in woody plant cover, losses of rare species, increased cover and variety of invasive species, and constraints on the ability to use prescribed fire.
Watch ‘tiny tornadoes’ spread plant pathogens (popsci.com)
Pathogens and germs don’t just make humans and animals sick. Diseases from bacteria and fungi can wreak havoc on all kinds of plants. One particularly bad pathogenic fungus for plants is called rust. This is not the same rust you can find on metals, but it has a similar bright red, orange, yellow, and brown color that can take away from a more decorative plant’s appearance. Importantly, it can also wipe out important crops including wheat and barley.
Rust is airborne–just like COVID-19–and it spreads to healthy plants by way of cells called spores. Understanding how these spores move around is key to designing better ways to protect plants. Using high-speed cameras, a study published January 31 in the journal Science Advances analyzed how plant spores are dispersed. It revealed how tiny ‘tornadoes’ spread pathogens from infected plants to healthy ones.
That sharp, green smell of freshly cut grass? It’s a plant’s cry for help – and it may work as a less toxic pesticide for farmers (theconversation.com | January 29, 2024)
Almost every green plant can quickly synthesize and release GLVs when attacked, both directly warding off attackers as well as indirectly attracting predators of herbivores like insects and priming the plant’s other defense mechanisms. Researchers know that GLVs play an important role in protecting plants, but how they work remains unclear.
From Pest to Protein: Feeding Livestock With Flies Drawn to Their Farms (entomologytoday.org | January 31, 2024)
“Humans have harvested wild insects since, well, before being Homo sapiens,” says Lee Cohnstaedt, Ph.D., a research entomologist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS). “People in much of the world moved away from eating insects because of animal agriculture, and now we will have to return to insects as food and feed because there are too many people for traditional livestock agriculture to support.” Fortunately, Cohnstaedt points out, wild insects are often quite attracted to intensive agriculture settings—thereby making mass harvesting possible.
The Next Era of Greenhouse Crop Protection is Here (greenhousegrower.com | January 25, 2024)
Why Growers are Shifting to Bios
Shifting to bios isn’t fast — there’s a learning curve. It isn’t less expensive, although growers may find the total cost of chemical control and bios are similar (add up the protective suits, the training, storage requirements, disposal costs, and time lost waiting for the restricted entry interval (REI) to re-enter a bay). Using bios is more complex than the old spray-and-pray methods. So why do growers make the switch?
Commercially Available Biological Control Agents for Greenhouse Insect and Mite Pests (canr.msu.edu | January 24, 2024)
This free, downloadable PDF is a 16-page bulletin that provides information about the commercially-available biological control agents in the United States for greenhouse insect and mite pests. This bulletin presents key facts, photos and descriptions of 42 beneficial insects used in greenhouse insect biological control programs for western flower thrips, whiteflies, aphids, twospotted spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats. Greenhouse growers new to biological control or those that are training employees will find this bulletin useful.
Call for papers in Frontiers in Insect Science!
Special Issue Title: Pest-Smart Strategies For Improved Eco-Efficiency In Agriculture, Forestry And Communities
This Research Topic in Frontiers on eco-efficiency and IPM is open for contributions. The research topic or special issue proposes the concept of Pest-Smart production strategies to communicate, identify, quantify, track and incentivize eco-efficient Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices. This is a great opportunity to communicate the role IPM plays in minimizing economic, human health, and environmental risks associated with pest management.
Manuscript Summary Submission Deadline 29 February 2024
Manuscript Submission Deadline 30 September 2024
More information: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/59157/pest-smart-strategies-for-improved-eco-efficiency-in-agriculture-forestry-and-communities
Survey on Annual Bedding Plants Supply Chain analysis in the USA (eIRB # 25951)
This project is assessing the U.S. annual bedding plant industry to better understand the supply chain flow patterns and sustainability efforts being conducted throughout the chain. The outcomes of this research will include articles in industry magazines, extension publications, and presentations on usable information at Cultivate and other industry events.
Your response matters! If you participate in the annual bedding plant industry, like growing, buying, selling, or supporting businesses. Your participation is completely anonymous and voluntary. The survey will only take around 10-15 minutes. Please click on the link below to start the survey.
Follow this link to the survey:
Take the survey
General Small Fruit Grower Survey
UMass Fruit Extension is curious to learn about small fruit growers' interests and current problems. A brief general survey has been created to quickly identify topics and practices that require more research, outreach, and education. Please take a few minutes to fill out the survey as your answers will be used to inform Extension publications, events, and priorities. The survey will close on 2/16/2024. For any questions or concerns please contact: mbley@umass.edu.
Dear Berry and Cherry Grower,
The evaluation team at the University of Florida is conducting a national survey to better understand the impact of research conducted by land-grant university faculty to mitigate spotted wing drosophila (SWD) in your fields. The project, funded by the USDA, requires an evaluation to determine if the work has met your needs as a grower. We have identified you as a berry and/or cherry grower and value your opinions regarding this important work.
The survey should take 15 minutes to complete. You will be asked questions about your farm operations, experience with SWD from 2008 to date, and any SWD management practices you have implemented on your farm. Data collected will advance research efforts focused on developing more effective and efficient SWD management tools to meet your needs. There are no direct benefits or compensation for completing the survey; however, your participation will contribute to developing better management tools for SWD.
Webinars, Seminars, Meetings, and More
Save the Date!
The 11th International IPM Symposium
March 3 – 5, 2025
San Diego, CA
This is an excellent opportunity for state IPM program directors and ARDP PDs to meet USDA NIFA presentation requirements.
The Symposium is a key conference that cuts across IPM issues and offers much in the way of highlighting current issues in IPM, presentations on current research and developments, and valuable networking for stakeholders.
What’s Bugging You First Friday is a monthly virtual series that explores 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. IPM is 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.
The 2024 What’s Bugging You First Friday schedule is now available on the program’s website, and you can register for multiple events using our registration form. We look forward to seeing you in 2024!
March 1st: Changes to Home Garden Insecticide in NY | Tick Blitz
April 5th: Weed ID | Rats in Vegetable Gardens
May 3rd: No-Mow May | What to do with Grass Clippings
June 7th: Tick & Mosquito Yard Treatments | Myth: Mosquito Repellent Plants
July 5th: Japanese Beetle Management | Aphid-Eating Insects
August 2nd: Spotted Lanternfly Update | Box Tree Moth Update
September 6th: Back to School: Bed Bugs | Head Lice
October 4th: Identifying Pests in Your Home
November 1st: 2024 Tick Blitz Results | No Spray Needed
December 6th: Feed the Birds | Repurposing a Holiday Tree
- March, 1st, 1 PM- 2 PM- What You Should Know About Jumping Worms. Jumping worms reduce soil health and can be easily and unknowingly spread by gardeners. Learn how to recognize jumping worms and prevent their spread.
- April, 10th, 1 PM-2 PM- Enhancing the Health of Riparian Ecosystems Through Restoration and Invasive Species Management. Get an overview of our multiyear Riparian Restoration Initiative. Learn about the ecological importance of the project areas, invasive species impacts, control & restoration methods used, selected plants, community involvement, and future plans.
- April, 10th, 1 PM-2 PM- Enhancing the Health of Riparian Ecosystems Through Restoration and Invasive Species Management. Get an overview of our multiyear Riparian Restoration Initiative. Learn about the ecological importance of the project areas, invasive species impacts, control & restoration methods used, selected plants, community involvement, and future plans.
- May 17th, 1 PM-2 PM- Birds as Habitat Health Indicators. Conservation Director of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, Neil Gifford, will discuss a bird banding and tracking program used to determine ecosystem health on the preserve, the impacts invasive species can have on bird habitat, the benefits of invasive species management, as well as ways homeowners and land managers can support birds.
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow: What to do if neonicotinoids are banned in New York State
Wednesday, February 7, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
The Birds and Bees Protection Act bill (A. 7640/ S. 1856-A) has been introduced in the New York State Senate and Assembly. If passed, this bill will ban use of these products for non-agricultural, turf and landscape purposes by 2027. Join us to learn about the current use of neonicotinoids; the pests they are suitable for, potential impacts to beneficial organisms and optimal use of neonics. Current alternatives to neonics will also be discussed with emphasis on preventative management strategies and curative management. We will also dive into the challenges of finding alternatives to these products and will address where these alternatives may be lacking compared to the neonics.
To register: Webinar Registration - Zoom
Cornell Cooperative Extension Agritourism Monthly Webinar Series
Via Zoom
Price: Free
2nd Tuesdays of the Month
12pm to 1pm
02/13 – Grants for Agritourism Operations
03/12 – Staffing your Agritourism Operation
04/09 – Working with your Local Tourism Office
TO REGISTER: HTTPS://TINYURL.COM/48RNM7HY
Questions can be directed to Lindsey Pashow at lep67@cornell.edu.
On-line Greenhouse Scout School
Register Now for the Greenhouse Scout School Certificate Program and Webinar Series February 13-March 26, 2024
Cornell University, the University of Vermont and the University of Maine have joined forces to offer a 7-week 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 Burnett, Margery Daughtrey, Betsy Lamb, Elise Lobdell, John Sanderson and Cheryl Sullivan. This program is offered in two formats – as a webinar series and as a certificate program. PAT credits are awarded!
Please view the following link for more information and to register. https://cals.cornell.edu/new-york-state-integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/events/greenhouse-scout-school
The Northeast Extension Fruit Consortium has six winter sessions scheduled across January, February and March
- Link: https://ag.umass.edu/fruit/news-events/northeast-extension-fruit-consortium
- Pre-registration is required. The session information:
February 7- Dr. Macarena Faruch, University of Maryland, will discuss the "Use, Efficacy and Cost of Reflective Ground Cover in the Orchard." She will be joined by grower Kristen DeMarree who will share her field experience with reflective ground cover.
March 6- Dr. Jaime Piñero, University of Massachusetts Extension & Stockbridge School of Agriculture, will provide updates on "Mass Trapping for Japanese Bettle Management" .
March 13- Dr. Jessica McBride, University of Connecticut, will discuss "How to Effectively Engage With The Media". Andre Tougas, Tougas Family Farm and Chelcie Martin, Honey Pot Hill Orchard will share their experiences with the press from this year- what worked, what didn't and what they plan to do differently next time.
March 20- Dr. Kerik Cox, Ms. L?ga Astra Kalni?a will discuss “BioControl, Forecast Models and Apple Scab- Finding the Sweet Spot”.
When: February 27th, 2024 (11:00 AM – 2:55 PM, Eastern) & February 28th, 2024 (11:00 AM – 2:40 PM, Eastern)
Where: Virtually via Zoom (FREE!)
What to expect:
- Our NE RISCC signature blend of interactive sessions and networking covering terrestrial, freshwater, and marine habitats
- Keynote talk by Laura Meyerson (University of Rhode Island, Co-Editor-in-Chief for the journal Biological Invasions and Associate Editor for the journal Neobiota)
- Sessions on:
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- Challenges and opportunities at early stages of invasion
- Challenges and opportunities at late stages of invasion
- Communicating about climate change and invasive species
- Invasive species impacts on climate change mitigation & adaptation
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- Lightning talks
- Community Action Award—Nominate someone here!
- For more details, please see our schedule.
Register here.
Recent Advances in Organic Pest Management of Spotted-wing Drosophila
Join Spotted-wing Drosophila organic pest management team members for a webinar on the recent advances in managing Spotted-wing Drosophila in organic fruit. This webinar will focus on recent efforts to release the classical biological control agent Ganaspis brasiliensis at organic sites nationwide with information from Dr. Jana Lee (USDA ARS), Dr. Kent Daane (UC Berkeley), Dr. Philip Fanning (UMaine) and more
Date & Time: February 7, 2024 02:00 PM Eastern Time
Register here: https://oregonstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_efBnBYi8QDSzu2NOGopQBg#/registration
Sharpen Your Scouting Skills Workshop 2024 Webinar (Zoom)
Learn to recognize major pests and diseases of conifers, broadleaf trees and shrubs and
herbaceous perennials
Presenters: Margery Daughtrey: Plant Pathologist, Long Island Horticultural Research and Education
Center, Cornell University
Dan Gilrein: Entomologist, Long Island Horticultural Research and Education Center,
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County
Karen Snover-Clift: Director, Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic, Cornell University
Dates/Time: Thursdays, February 8, 15, and 22, 2024; 2-3:45pm via Zoom
February 8, 2024 Webinar 1: Scouting Skills for Conifers
Description: The panel will discuss common issues affecting conifers (pine, spruce, juniper, etc.)
commonly used in the landscape, with tips on scouting, recognition, and management strategies.
February 15, 2024 Webinar 2: Scouting Skills for Broadleaf Trees & Shrubs
Description: The panel will discuss common issues affecting broadleaf trees and shrubs, with tips
on scouting, recognition, and management strategies.
February 22, 2024 Webinar 3: Scouting Skills for Herbaceous Perennials
Description: The panel will discuss common issues affecting herbaceous perennials used in the
landscape, with tips on scouting, recognition, and management strategies.
Fee: $200/person after January 31. To register, click
here https://branchingoutwkp.securepayments.cardpointe.com/pay or call Shari Romar at 917-747-2286.
IR-4 Project Research Symposium: Food Crops Tuesday
The annual IR-4 Project Research Symposium: Food Crops will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, from 1-4 pm ET. During this virtual event, presenters will share research results from Integrated Solutions and Product Performance trials on food crops. Results from these trials are used to identify potential pest management solutions for specialty crops and to support product registrations. We hope you’ll join us!
An agenda with presentation topics will be available closer to the event. View the 2023 Research Symposium presentations here.
Produce Grower Update: Insect and Mites Affecting Berries and Their Control
Insects and Mites Affecting Berries and Their Control will cover insects and mites that commonly affect berries and also discuss some pests that have recently arrived on the scene. An update on new pesticides available for their management will be provided, as well as updated information related to cultural and biological management.
Who is this for?
- Produce growers
- Pesticide applicators
- Anyone wanting to learn in-depth information on vegetable and berry crops
What will you learn?
- How to identify mite and insect pests in berry crops
- New pests to be on the alert for
- Management strategies for insect and mite pests
- Pesticide labeling and specific use instructions for small fruit growers
Register By: February 14, 202411:59 PM
Date of Event: February 15, 2024
(10:00 AM-12:00 PM ET)
ASPB Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships Application
Applications accepted December 11, 2023 - February 12, 2024 (11:59 PM EST)
The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) fund promising undergraduate students so they can conduct research in plant biology during the early part of their college careers. SURF recipients must present their research at ASPB’s annual Plant Biology meeting in the year following the fellowship award.
Award Details - Successful applicants receive a $6,000 summer stipend, membership in ASPB, and $700 (paid to the mentor or institution) for materials and supplies. Each fellowship also provides a stipend to support student travel to Plant Biology 2025, the ASPB annual meeting, to be held July 26-30, 2025, in Milwaukee. These travel funds are sent only to the SURF recipients who 1) register for the meeting (free to student), 2) submit proof of using social media or other outlets to engage the public or peers about the SURF project, and 3) author and submit an abstract (free to student) about their SURF project to present as a poster at the meeting, including at the Undergraduate Poster Session.
Internship Opportunities
Boyce Thompson Institute hosts two Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) programs
- The USDA and NSF-funded Plant Genome Research Experiences for Undergraduates encompasses a wide variety of plant science research, including bioinformatics. This program involves labs and faculty members at both the Boyce Thompson Institute and Cornell University
Click here for more information on the Plant Genome and Bioinformatics REU programs.
- The NSF-funded Programmable Plant Systems Research Experiences for Undergraduates is funded through CROPPS, the Center for Research on Programmable Plant Systems, and involves trans-disciplinary research that connects engineering and plant science. This program involves labs and faculty members at both the Boyce Thompson Institute and Cornell University, as well as at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champain, IL campus.
Click here for more information on the Programmable Plant Systems REU programs.
Botany and Conservation Biology Research at the Missouri Botanical Garden
Application Deadline - February 28, 2024
Missouri Botanical Garden is pleased to announce the opening of the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program that will provide research opportunities for 10 students, for 10 weeks during the summer of 2024. Students will work on independent mentored projects in plant systematics, conservation biology, and ethnobotany. Participants will have access to the Garden’s herbarium of more than 7 million specimens, an excellent botanical library, rich garden collections, a laboratory facilities for plant anatomy, microscopy, digital imaging, SEM, and DNA analysis, and the Shaw Nature Reserve – a 2,400 acre ecological preserve featuring prairie, forest, glades, wetlands, and 14 miles of hiking trails.
Students must be returning to an undergraduate degree program in the fall following the REU program. If you will be graduating in May or June in the year of the program, you are not eligible. To be eligible you must also be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
Penn State's Southeast Agricultural Research & Extension Center - Summer Research Assistant
The SEAREC Internship is a comprehensive experiential learning program. Each summer, 3 to 6 individuals are invited to work beside educators and faculty to conduct research and produce crops from May through August.
Participants in the program support vegetable, small fruit, floriculture, industrial hemp, field crop and environmental research and education. Students matriculated at any college or university may apply for the position.
Enrichment programming is provided through invited guest lectures, field trips, professional development, and events throughout the summer. Past topics have included environmental health and safety, self-mentorship, plant nutrition, biological control, permaculture, resume building, and ag careers. Past interns have gone on to successful positions in natural resource management, non-profit farm management, floriculture, agricultural industry support, public service, and post-graduate study.
Employment Opportunities
Part-Time Program Assistant - Pennsylvania IPM (Integrated Pest Management) Program
The Pennsylvania IPM (Integrated Pest Management) Program, based in the Dept. of Entomology at Penn State, seeks a bilingual (English/Spanish) Outreach Specialist to work in urban communities in Philadelphia and beyond to implement IPM programs and maintain and develop relationships with PA IPM partners. The successful applicant will work as part of a team to support and sustain IPM using face-to-face and online activities to teach the public how to control pests (bed bugs, cockroaches, mice, rats, etc.) in structures in urban communities, including single family homes, row houses, schools, commercial buildings, and other settings. The successful applicant will conduct public outreach including attending community and task force meetings, and events such as health and community events. Latinx residents make up over 15% of Philadelphians, and even higher proportions in some collar-counties (e.g., Latinx make up over 23% of Berks residents). This is an important and growing constituency for IPM outreach and adoption, and will be a major focus for this position. Spanish speaking, reading, and writing fluency is required. Additionally, one must be a trusted worker who is respected by the people they serve and able to apply their own unique understanding of the experience, socio-economic needs, language, and/or culture of the communities served.
Environmental Horticulture Program Manager
The IR-4 Project seeks an Environmental Horticulture Program Manager to join its Headquarters team based on North Carolina State University’s Centennial Campus.
Reporting to the Executive Director, this role will coordinate research and pesticide (bio-based and chemical) registration activities on non-food, ornamental plant species. This position is aligned with the IR-4 Project mission to facilitate regulatory approval of sustainable pest management technology for specialty crops, including ornamental crops and other environmental horticulture uses. This is a full-time (40 hours per week), EHRA non-faculty position.
Visit our Careers page to learn more about the role and apply.
IR-4 Headquarters, based at North Carolina State University, is seeking a Study Director. The Study Director position will report directly to the IR-4 Associate Director for Regulatory Sciences and National Laboratory Director. This position will be an integral part of the IR-4 Project Headquarters unit, with responsibilities including (but not limited to) study coordination, data package development, spearheading the implementation of new information technology, and leading the research coordinator team. Follow the link below to learn more about this role’s specific duties and qualifications.
View the job posting and apply here!
- Certified as an NWCG certified Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2) and/or Task Force Leader (TFLD) equivalent with ability to maintain this certification during the duration of employment with the ability to pass moderate (carrying of 25lbs/2 miles in 30 minutes) level work capacity test at a minimum, with the ability to pass arduous (carrying of 45lbs/3 miles in 45 minutes) level work capacity test preferred.
- Advanced training in NWCG “S” courses and “RX” courses especially RX-301 – Prescribed Fire Implementation; RX 341- Prescribed Fire Plan Preparation; S212 - Wildland Saws; UTV operation qualified and First Aid and CPR at wilderness first responder qualification level preferred.
- B.S. in ecology, conservation biology, forestry or related natural science major.
- 7 years of relevant experience with core components including prescribed fire programs.
The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) seeks to hire a full-time Orchard Manager at its flagship
Meadowview Research Farms in Southwest Virginia. The Orchard Manager will work both
individually and as part of a team on essential land management tree breeding and seed harvest tasks
year-round. Reporting to the Director of Land Management, the ideal Orchard Manager will bring
skills, knowledge and willingness to learn in areas such as vegetation management, safe operation of
heavy agricultural equipment, handling and organization of biological samples, and natural resource
conservation. Knowledge and experience pertaining to plant biology and breeding is a plus. As a staff
member of Meadowview Research Farms, the Orchard Manager will interface professionally with
members of the public, connecting specific tree breeding and land management projects with TACF’s
overall mission.
Position: Orchard Manager
Position Type: Full-time permanent position with a robust benefits package
Position Location: Meadowview Research Farms, Meadowview, VA
Reporting to: Director of Land Management
Salary Recruitment Range (DOE): $21.19-$23.08 per hour - TACF is a living wage employer.
Many fantastic job opportunities with open calls for applications related to aquatic work happening in and around SLELO PRISM
- SUNY Oswego and USGS GLSC : In collaboration with the United States Geological Survey Great Lakes Science Center, SUNY Oswego is hiring three aquatic biologists who will help support ongoing native fish restoration efforts. The three hires are focused on expanding collaborations with our regional partners, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), to research topics associated with native fish (e.g., Atlantic salmon and coregonines) restoration efforts. If you know of any potential candidates, please share this information with them. The full job descriptions, which include the links to apply, can be viewed via the linked job titles below:
- NY iMapInvasives: Two full-time positions open with the Invasive Species/ iMap team at the New York Natural Heritage Program (based out of Albany). Please share with others who may be interested!
iMapInvasives Project Specialist: https://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=170867
iMapInvasives Advanced Data Manager: https://esf.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=170895
Department of Agriculture
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
USDA/Animal Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), Biotechnology Regulatory Services is pleased to announce two Senior Biological Scientist positions within our Biotechnology Risk Analysis Programs. The positions are in Riverdale, Maryland, telework eligible, and are at the Federal General Schedule Level of 14. Salary begins at $139,395.
We are seeking bright and energetic applicants who are interested in Biotechnology.
The link for the USAJobs announcement number is https://www.usajobs.gov/job/772069000
Director - UMass Cranberry Station / Extension Associate/Full Professor
The University of Massachusetts is seeking an experienced scientist, innovative leader and Extension educator to serve in a full-time, 12-month appointment as Extension Associate or Full Professor and Director of the UMass Cranberry Station located in East Wareham, Massachusetts. The Director will provide: 1) vision, support, and coordination in planning, developing and implementing departmental programs in research and extension in accordance with the Land Grant Mission; 2) leadership in recruiting and fostering academic growth and professional development of faculty, staff, and students; 3) administration of human, physical and financial resources; and 4) promotion of external funding opportunities. The successful candidate will report to the Director of the Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment.
Please submit applications by March 1, 2024 in order to ensure priority consideration. Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. Questions about the position may be directed to averill@eco.umass.edu.
Crop Protection and Pest Management
Crop Protection and Pest Management Competitive Grants Program
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. ?
The technical assistance webinar related to this FY 2024 funding opportunity is now scheduled. Please see details about the webinar, including the registration link, date, and time, via the technical assistance webinar button below. The recording and supporting documents will also be posted to this page after the event.
Closing Date for applications: February 15, 2024
Methyl Bromide Transition Program
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.
Closing date for applications: February 13, 2024
Methyl Bromide Transition Program
We are pleased to announce the CRISP 2024 Request for Proposals to fund priority invasive species projects in the Catskills region! Priorities for funding include:
- Stop emerging invasive species through Early Detection and Rapid Response Surveys for Tier 1 or Tier 2 Species beyond what is documented in iMapInvasives and EDDMapS and rapid response for Tier 2 Species found through surveys
- Raise public awareness of Tier 1 and Tier 2 Species to address introduction pathways and slow the spread of forest pests, pathogens, or species approaching or spreading within the region. A list of CRISP Invasive Species Tiers is available here: https://www.catskillinvasives.com/crisp-tiers
- Improve the scientific understanding of the extent, ecological impact, and effective controls of invasive species in the CRISP region.
We have revised the RFP Scorecard and included 10 points for those organizations that have signed the CRISP Cooperation Agreement
Selected projects will be funded up to $25,000 and must be completed in 2024. The deadline for applications is COB on February 9th. Additional information is available here: https://www.catskillinvasives.com/funding
Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative
The Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI) seeks to solve critical organic agriculture issues, priorities, or problems through the integration of research, education, and extension activities. The purpose of this program is to fund projects that will enhance the ability of producers and processors who have already adopted organic standards to grow and market high quality organic agricultural products. Priority concerns include biological, physical, and social sciences, including economics. The OREI is particularly interested in projects that emphasize research, education and outreach that assist farmers and ranchers with whole farm planning by delivering practical research-based information. Projects should plan to deliver applied production information to producers. Fieldwork must be done on certified organic land or on land in transition to organic certification, as appropriate to project goals and objectives. Refer to the USDA National Organic Program for organic production standards.
The technical assistance webinar related to this FY 2024 funding opportunity is now scheduled. Please see details about the webinar, including the registration link, date, and time, via the technical assistance webinar button below. The recording and supporting documents will also be posted to this page after the event.
Closing Date for Applications: February 15, 2024
Estimated Total Program Funding: $44,000,000
Apply For Grant Download RFA Technical Assistance Webinar
Integrated Research, Education, and Extension Competitive Grants Program – Organic Transitions
The overall goal of the Organic Transitions Program (ORG) is to support the development and implementation of research, extension and higher education programs to improve the competitiveness of organic livestock and crop producers, as well as those who are adopting organic practices. NIFA administers the ORG program by determining priorities in U.S. agriculture through Agency stakeholder input processes in consultation with the NAREEEAB. ORG will continue to prioritize environmental services provided by organic farming systems in the area of soil conservation, pollinator health, and climate change mitigation, including greenhouse gases (GHG), as well as the development of educational tools for Cooperative Extension personnel and other agricultural professionals who advise producers on organic practices, and development of cultural practices and other allowable alternatives to substances recommended for removal from the National Organic Program’s National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. It is expected that all projects will integrate research, education and extension activities, as appropriate to project goals, although some projects may be weighted more heavily than others in one or more of these areas. However, all proposals should have activities and impact in research and at least one of the other areas: education and extension.
The technical assistance webinar related to this FY 2024 funding opportunity is now scheduled. Please see details about the webinar, including the registration link, date, and time, via the technical assistance webinar button below. The recording and supporting documents will also be posted to this page after the event.
Closing Date for Applications: March 7, 2024
Estimated Total Program Funding: $7,500,000
Apply For Grant Download RFA Technical Assistance Webinar
The Lower Hudson Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) is now accepting applications for the 2024 calendar year. Approximately $70,000 is expected to be available for management and outreach activities related to invasive species in the Lower Hudson Valley of New York. We expect that most funded projects will range between $2,000 and $20,000. Projects submitted in response to this RFP are subject to review and approval by NYSDEC.
Applicants are asked to follow the general guidelines of the LH PRISM’s current overall strategic plan, which is guided by 6 primary goals and specific objectives within those goals. These guiding goals and objectives can be found here
The Lower Hudson PRISM Steering Committee would especially like to encourage proposals related to (but not limited to) the following for 2024:
- Projects that target restoration, recovery and revegetation at sites impacted by invasives species, particularly forest pests and pathogens
- Projects that link invasive species management activities to protection of rare, threatened or endangered species and restoration of native critical habitat for those species
- Projects that target high priority aquatic invasive species in inland lakes and waterbodies (note that these aquatic projects must operate independently of the former Aquatic Invasives Strike Force Crew in 2024)
- Supporting student internships focused on the management of invasive species. Projects which focus on recruiting members of groups underrepresented in the environmental field are encouraged
- Projects that implement chemical and non-chemical methods for Tier 2 species control and/or biocontrol methods for more established forest pests.
Please refer to New York State Invasive Species Tiers - New York Natural Heritage Program for most current tiers. Make sure to filter by Lower Hudson PRISM geography for appropriate geography
- Education and outreach programs to municipal planners, public works, nurseries, town and county parks staff, and/or to those in transportation and utility sectors with messages encouraging detection and ways to mitigate spread
- Development of updated summary best management practice documents and guides that supplement current inventory on LH PRISM’s website
Applications are due by February 28, 2024 at 9 a.m. For more information, including how to apply, go to https://lhprism.org/apply-projects-or-funding and scroll down to the "2024 Request for Proposals for LH PRISM Subcontract Projects" section. Note this is separate and distinct from the Request for Control projects section of the webpage.
Please forward to potential applicants and reach out to us with any questions by emailing us at invasives@nynjtc.org.