IPM News and Events Roundup 05/02/2025
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.
This work is supported by The Northeastern IPM Center, project reward Grant #2022-70006-38004, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and should not be construed to represent any official USDA or U.S. government determination or policy.
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Northeastern IPM Center News
Eco-Friendly IPM Approaches for Codling Moth Management
June 3, 2025 – 2 p.m. EDT
Register at cornell.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BXHLUG6RQomtOM1lmTJ--Q#/registration
The webinar will be recorded for anyone unable to attend the live session.
Description
This presentation will cover integrated pest management strategies for codling moth control, including:
- Monitoring techniques using lures and camera traps
- Establishing biofix and tracking degree days
- Attract-and-kill systems for effective population suppression
- Biological control methods, highlighting the residual effects of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Bt) on codling moth larvae
Ajay Giri
Ph.D. candidate, Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Ajay Pratap Giri’s doctoral research focuses on evaluating eco-friendly biocidal drift reduction adjuvants using essential oil emulsions. Ajay holds a master’s degree in Plant and Soil Science from UMass Amherst, where he studied the attractiveness of semiochemicals to multiple tortricid pests in apple orchards. He has published 7 peer-reviewed journal articles and more than 15 Extension articles, contributing significantly to the advancement of sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management. With extensive experience in applied research, Extension, and outreach, his work primarily supports innovative and eco-friendly pest management strategies.
EPA / FDA / USDA / NIFA News
Administrator Zeldin Announces Major EPA Actions to Combat PFAS Contamination
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin outlined upcoming agency action to address Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). In this suite of actions, Administrator Zeldin announced a long list that included in part the designation of an agency lead for PFAS, the creation of effluent limitations guidelines (ELGs) for certain PFAS to stop these forever chemicals from entering drinking water systems, and initiatives to engage with Congress and industry to establish a clear liability framework that ensures the polluter pays and passive receivers are protected. In line with Administrator Zeldin’s Powering the Great American Comeback initiative, EPA’s work in this space will advance Pillar 1: Clean Air, Land, and Water for Every American, and Pillar 3: Permitting Reform, Cooperative Federalism, and Cross-Agency Partnership.??
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its final Insecticide Strategy that identifies practical protections for federally endangered and threatened species from the use of insecticides, while providing flexibility for pesticide users and growers. The Strategy identifies mitigations aimed at protecting more than 900 species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) that EPA considers when it registers a new insecticide or reevaluates an existing one.
EPA Celebrates 100 Days with 100 Environmental Actions
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin released a recap of 100 environmental actions taken by the agency during President Trump’s First 100 Days in office, including the record Phase 1 hazardous materials clean up after the catastrophic Los Angeles wildfires, the announcement of major actions to combat PFAS contamination, redevelopment at 21 Superfund sites across 13 states and removal of all, or a portion of 4 sites from the National Priorities List, completion of 25 State Implementation Plans, 16 of which were backlogged from the previous Administration, and so much more.
This week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin recognized the historic first 100 days of the Trump administration by releasing 100 environmental actions taken by EPA since Jan. 20th to advance the agency’s core mission of protecting human health and the environment.
On April 29, 2025, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its final Insecticide Strategy that identifies practical protections for federally endangered and threatened species from the use of insecticides, while providing flexibility for pesticide users and growers. The Strategy identifies mitigations aimed at protecting more than 900 species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) that EPA considers when it registers a new insecticide or reevaluates an existing one.
Research in the news
Christmas Tree scouting report April 24, 2025
Pretty big week, start of bud break. Growers will need to treat.
Spatial partitioning of floral volatiles provides a “chemosensory roadmap” for bumblebee pollinators (sciencedirect.com)
How do plants with structurally complex flowers promote effective pollination? From the pollinator’s perspective, complex flowers can be reimagined as mechanical puzzles that require the manipulation of a 3D object in search of a concealed reward.1 The spatial partitioning of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) within flowers may help flower-naive pollinators to successfully complete such puzzles, thereby increasing their foraging proficiency and, from the plant’s perspective, promoting flower constancy and pollination efficiency.
Spotted Lanternfly Reported Distribution Map (cals.cornell.edu)
The lanternfly distribution map was recently updated. This latest edition of the national map includes 29 newly reported infested counties across states ranging from Rhode Island to Tennessee.
Wild Bee Diversity Prediction Tool (atkinson.cornell.edu)
About the Maps
The maps display predictions of: (1) Richness: the number of wild bee species, (2) Conditions: trends in landscape conditions for bees, and (3) Combined: this map integrates both the richness and landscape conditions, and you can click a location for recommended actions. These predictions are based on ecological indicators that use birds and land cover data from 33 states in the central and eastern U.S.
Corn stunt and corn leafhopper found in New York (cals.cornell.edu)
Pest Alert - As its name suggests, corn stunt can lead to significant stunting and ear abnormalities and has the potential to cause significant yield loss. Cornell Integrated Pest Management is partnering with Cornell University and Cornell Cooperative Extension on a working group to develop and deploy a common protocol for monitoring corn leafhopper in the upcoming growing season.
Farm-gate greenhouse gas emission intensity for medium to large New York dairy farms (journalofdairyscience.org)
In 2022, New York had over 620,000 dairy cows producing more than 7 million Mg (15 billion pounds) of milk, ranking fifth in dairy producing states in the United States. The objectives of this work were to (1) estimate total farm-gate GHG emissions and GHG emission intensity (GHGei) of 36 medium to large (>300 mature cows) commercial New York dairies, (2) determine the contribution of main GHG (on-farm methane [CH4], nitrous oxide [N2O], and carbon dioxide [CO2], plus embedded emissions [CO2 equivalents; CO2eq]) and sources (enteric fermentation, feed production, manure management, grazing, fuel, and energy) to farm-gate GHGei, and (3) identify key performance indicators (KPI) driving farm-gate GHGei. Assessments were done for 2022 using the Cool Farm Tool.
Vision-Guided Spraying Technology Targets Problem Weeds (ir4project.org)
What to apply, when to apply, and how to apply are key considerations when it comes to herbicides—particularly for weed control on perennial crops. Two IR-4 research collaborators are working on the “how” part with a brand-new precision-spraying technology. Lynn Sosnoskie, Assistant Professor of Weed Ecology and Management in specialty crops at Cornell University, and Thierry Besançon, Associate Professor and Extension Weed Specialist for specialty crops at Rutgers University, have been searching for new herbicides to use safely on perennial crops, with a focus on increasing efficacy, managing crop injury, and reducing the total amounts of product applied.
News
Modeling tool protects worker health and food chain security (news.cornell.edu)
Cornell researchers have created a computer model that can help produce farms and food processing facilities control COVID-19 outbreaks, keep workers safe and the food chain secure.
With the Food Industry CoVid-19 Control Tool (FInd CoV Control), users input details like work environment, number, age, infection and vaccination history, physical proximity and living conditions of employees to create a simulation of how an outbreak might spread. Then they can compare the effectiveness and cost of intervention strategies, like testing, vaccination and physical distancing.
An Unusual Pest: Clover Mite (egroblog.com)
Several unusual samples came into the Diagnostic Lab this week. One notable is clover mite (Bryobia praetiosa) causing damage to New Guinea impatiens. Common around residential landscapes, it occasionally becomes a nuisance pest invading homes in spring. I sometimes see clover mites on weeds like clover and oxalis in and around greenhouses in spring but rarely on crop plants. In this case a population had built up on (what appears to be) hairy vetch (leguminous weed) growing around benches. Mites then moved onto New Guinea impatiens plants nearby where feeding on the upper surface was causing a kind of pale stippling.
Scientists Discover the Oldest Known Ant Fossil, a 113-Million-Year-Old ‘Hell Ant’ Preserved in Rock in Brazil (smithsonianmag.com)
Brazilian researchers say they’ve discovered the oldest ant fossil yet, a finding that sheds light on the insects’ evolution. The female specimen belongs to an extinct group known as “hell ants,” which are closely related to the wasp-like ancestor of ants today.
New sightings of spotted lanternflies reported in Tennessee. What to do besides killing them (tennessean.com)
- The spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect from Asia, has been sighted in Tennessee.
- Residents are urged to report sightings, kill any spotted lanternflies or egg masses they find, and check vehicles for hitchhikers.
- It feeds on a wide variety of plants, including trees of heaven, fruit trees, and grapevines.
Spotted lanternfly discovered in Finger Lakes, threatening state's $6.65B wine industry (cnycentral.com)
Researchers at Cornell University say the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that destroys vineyards, has now been discovered in the Finger Lakes.
Brian Eshenaur, an Invasive Species Specialist at Cornell University, said if left unchecked, the brightly colored insect can be deadly to vineyards.
“We are concerned because the Spotted Lanternfly is now in small areas of the Finger Lakes and we know it can damage vineyards,” said Eshenaur.
Lighting the Way: How Can Students Shape Firefly Conservation? (entomologytoday.org)
Fireflies, iconic insects that bring magic to summer nights, face growing threats worldwide. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution have contributed to significant declines in firefly populations. An 18-year study of female glowworms in the United Kingdom found an average decline of 3.5 percent per year. Additionally, in 2021, 18 North American firefly species were classified as vulnerable to extinction, while over half of the species assessed lacked sufficient data to inform conservation efforts.
Rebrand highlights connection to Cornell University (cals.cornell.edu)
Underscoring its deep connection to the purpose-driven science and innovation of Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Cornell AgriTech, the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program (NYSIPM) has announced a rebranding initiative effective April 30. Moving forward, the program will adopt the name Cornell Integrated Pest Management (Cornell IPM).
“Rebranding as Cornell IPM highlights our connection to Cornell University and reinforces our commitment to its Land-Grant mission,” said Alejandro Calixto, director of Cornell IPM. “As we honor our 40-year legacy and plan for the future, we celebrate the research, resources and partnerships that drive our efforts to protect public health, enhance economic vitality, and preserve the environment.”
Lone star ticks in Maine? (youtube.com)
“Since May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and so many of us have been affected by it I thought I’d share an educational video. One of the most basic things we need to have if you live in Maine is the ability to identify the species of tick. Why? Each tick carries a different menu of infections. Most recently entomologists here in Maine have learned that Alpha Gal the meat allergy can be transmitted and is found in both black legged ticks and lone star ticks here in Maine.” Jon Cole
Submissions needed
Previously featured
The Annals of the Entomological Society of America invites your proposal for a review article.
We're seeking proposals for review articles that synthesize current knowledge, present new insights, and challenge or expand our understanding of the chosen topic. Submit your proposal by May 11.
Why participate?
- Showcase your expertise
- Publication in an issue of Annals of the ESA
- Publication in a dedicated virtual collection
Norway rat and house mouse samples needed for rodenticide resistance study
The Urban Entomology Lab from the Department of Entomology at Rutgers University is conducting research on rodenticide resistance in Norway rats and house mice in the northeastern U.S. with a focus on rodents from NJ, NY, and PA. Currently, we found 90% of the 80 house mouse samples carried at least one genetic mutation related to rodenticide resistance. We also examined over 20 samples of rats, and 45% of them carried mutation genes. We are looking for more Norway rat and house mice samples. If you can provide rodent samples, please contact Jin-Jia Yu at Rutgers University for more details. Email: jinjia.yu@rutgers.edu
Webinars, seminars, meetings, and more
Newly featured this issue
Pests at the Perimeter: How Landscape Design Influences Indoor Pest Intrusion
Cornell IPM Annual Conference
Join us for our annual conference on the link between outdoor landscapes and indoor pest issues. Experts will share science-based strategies to manage environments around buildings, reducing pest intrusion. Ideal for Master Gardener Volunteers, educators, professionals, and community members, this event offers practical insights for landscape and pest management.
Registration coming soon
June 17, 2025
From soil health to circularity: integrating research and outreach for sustainable bioresource use
Yang Lin, University of Florida
Soil & Crop Sciences
Monday, May 5, 10:00 – 11:00 am, 404 Plant Science, Zoom
Climate Change Causes and Curatives
Shimon Edelman, Cornell Department of Psychology
Perspectives on the Climate Change Challenge
Monday, May 5, 2:55 - 4:10 pm, Zoom Link
Previously featured
A Sustainable Future for Pest Management in California
Speaker: Sapna E. Thottathil, Deputy Director for Sustainable Pest Management for California Department of Pesticide Regulation
Key Insights:
- Learn what Sustainable Pest Management is, and how it builds on Integrated Pest Management.
- Explore the California Department of Pest Regulation’s priorities and new strategic plan, as well as regulatory changes.
- Understand the pest management challenges facing agriculture, natural lands, and urban areas throughout California.
Date & Time: May 20, 2025 02:00 PM in EST
Description: International IPM Symposium Webinar Series
UC IPM's Urban & Community Webinar Series
Join us at noon on the third Thursday of every month to learn about pest identification, prevention, and management around the home, garden, and landscape. This series is free and open to the public but advance registration is required.
- May 15: Understanding How Herbicides Work
- June 18: Cover, Smash, Trap: Non-chemical Methods for Pest Management
- July 17: Wild World of Wasps!
Getting Started on the RIGHT Foot with Saffron
Saffron, the stigmas of a fall-blooming crocus flower, is the most expensive spice and medicinal herb in the world. It is now grown in many areas of North America by small, diversified farmers and could strengthen sustainable agriculture. Are you thinking of growing it for the first time? Have you been growing it for several years? The North American Center for Saffron Research and Development at the University of Vermont (UVM) and Rodale Institute in Pennsylvania are hosting the 9th annual workshop on Saffron on Thursday May 8, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time. The event will be held online and recorded for all registrants. There are presentations for both beginning and experienced growers.
Growers and researchers from the US and Spain will share their knowledge about growing, fertilization, intercropping, selling this precious crop and the economics of production. Registration is $60. To learn more about the workshop and register, go to:
https:// https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/index.php?eventid=837320&
Questions? Contact: Margaret Skinner Tel: 1-802-656-5440; Email: mskinner@uvm.edu
Invasive Species Spotters Kickoff Webinar
Join LIISMA at a webinar kicking off our new volunteer program - Invasive Species Spotters - on May 7, at 1:00 - 2:30 pm! This training webinar is designed to teach professionals and community members to identify priority invasive species in the region.
Participants will learn to identify 10 priority invasive plants new to LIISMA and how to report them using iMapInvasives. Then, members will work independently this summer and beyond to survey around Long Island, Staten Island, Brooklyn, and Queens for these priority species.
This program is great for those looking to learn something new and make a difference. Register to reserve your spot today!
Spongy Moth: Managing a Tree-Devastating Pest
The spongy moth (formerly known as the gypsy moth) poses a significant threat to our shade trees, with recent resurgences reported in some areas. These caterpillars feed voraciously on tree foliage, and during peak activity, their falling droppings can even mimic the sound of rainfall!
In this program, we’ll explore how to identify this pest, understand its life cycle, and assess the damage it can cause. We’ll place particular emphasis on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, as well as pesticide treatments, to help manage these pests effectively using environmentally friendly approaches. We’ll also talk about the natural biocontrols that can help manage future outbreaks.
Thursday, June 5, 2025, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM *Zoom*
DEC Credits: 1 credit in 3a, 25, 6a and 9
ISA Credits: Available upon agency approval
Flyer: spongy moth
Register: Webinar Registration - Zoom
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 2025 What’s Bugging You First Friday schedule is available on the program’s website, and you can register for multiple events using our registration form.
May 2: Spongy moth caterpillar management | Feeding Friendly Insects: Plan to prep your soil
June 6: Spotted lanternfly update | Recognizing wild parsnip
July 4: Grow green lawns with overseeding | Beech leaf disease
August 1: Making a mosquito bucket trap | Feeding Friendly Insects: Pick plants
September 5: Top 5 rodent exclusion tips | Feeding Friendly Insects: Get ready to plant
October 3: Winterize your home orchard | Feeding Friendly Insects: Fall is for planting
November 1: Understanding indoor cockroaches | Invasive tawney field cockroach
December 5: IPM for clothes moths and pantry moths
Newly featured this issue
Temporary Field Assistant with the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program
The New York State Integrated Pest Management (NYSIPM) Program at Cornell AgriTech is seeking a Temporary Field Assistant to support applied agricultural research focused on sustainable pest management. This in-person, seasonal position (May through September 2025) involves hands-on fieldwork with crops and pests, data collection, and assisting with outreach activities. The role offers a collaborative, inclusive work environment and is a great opportunity for students or recent graduates interested in agriculture or environmental science. Start and end dates are flexible to accommodate academic schedules.
Previously featured
Seasonal Job Opportunities with the Finger Lakes PRISM
Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff, Watercraft Stewards will offer watercraft and trailer inspections as well as educational materials
at public boat launches throughout the Finger Lakes region. Stewards will collect data on inspections, launch users, and invasive species findings. Watercraft inspections entail visual examination and removal of plants or other organic material from boats and trailers and identifying aquatic invasive species. Stewards will help disseminate critical conservation messaging and initiatives to the public. Qualified candidates will be considered for watercraft decontamination or lead steward duties.
Aquatic Invasive Species Technician
Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff and Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (FL PRISM), AIS Technicians will assist in fieldwork, outreach, and education related to high-priority and emerging aquatic invasive species (AIS) including hydrilla, water chestnut, starry stonewort, fanwort, parrotfeather, and more. AIS Technicians will primarily participate in aquatic plant surveys around the Finger Lakes region. Techs will also work with managers to physically remove high-priority species such as water chestnut. Gain valuable experience, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to regional conservation efforts through seasonal work.
Terrestrial Invasive Species Technician
With assistance from Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) and Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (FL PRISM) staff, Terrestrial Invasive Species (TIS) Technicians will assist in fieldwork, outreach, and education related in terrestrial ecosystems around the Finger Lakes Region. Technicians will work as a team to survey for emerging invasive species, control high priority invasive species populations, participate in invasive species removal events, and collect data relating to plant communities. TIS techs will also be responsible for representing the FLI/FL-PRISM at public events to educate the public on the importance of invasive species. Gain valuable experience, enjoy the outdoors, and contribute to regional conservation efforts through seasonal work.
Full-Time Job Opportunities with the Finger Lakes PRISM
Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager
This position will play a critical role in protecting the Finger Lakes region. The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program Manager will develop and administer programs to support the goals of the Finger Lakes Institute and the Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management. AIS programs will address the prevention, monitoring, and treatment of aquatic invasive species across the 17-county Finger Lakes PRISM region in New York. This position will serve as a regional expert AIS by providing technical and scientific support to partners.
Terrestrial Invasive Species Program Manager
This position will play a critical role in protecting the Finger Lakes region. The Terrestrial Invasive Species (TIS) Program Manager will develop and administer programs to support the goals of the Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) and Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management. TIS programs will address the prevention, monitoring, and treatment of terrestrial invasive species across the 17-county Finger Lakes PRISM region in New York. This position will serve as a regional expert in TIS by providing technical and scientific support to local, regional, and statewide partners.
Invasive Species Education & Outreach Program Manager
This position will play a critical role in protecting the Finger Lakes region. The Education and Outreach (E/O) Program Manager will develop and manage public-facing, regional programs to support the goals of the Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) and the Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM). Examples of such programs include those focused on watercraft inspection stewards and citizen science. The Finger Lakes Watercraft Inspection Steward Program places staff at public boat launches regionally to educate boaters and inspect watercraft for invasive species. Citizen science programs train volunteers to support the monitoring and early detection goals of the Finger Lakes PRISM.
Aquatic Invasive Species Fieldwork Coordinator
The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Fieldwork Coordinator will support the Finger Lakes PRISM in a critical role overseeing major aquatic programs. They will help to plan, supervise, and coordinate program-specific efforts that address prevention, monitoring, and control of AIS throughout the Finger Lakes PRISM region. Working under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) staff, the AIS Fieldwork Coordinator will support the supervision of the Finger Lakes Institute’s Watercraft Inspection Steward Program (WISP), and their macrophyte monitoring program
The Tifft Nature Preserve Ranger’s primary responsibility is to maintain a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for guests, staff, and other patrons and ensure the security of BSNS property and facilities. The individual in this position will monitor Tifft Nature Preserve on-site through routine patrols of the property on foot and in a BSNS provided utility cart in a variety of weather conditions while being a resource of information for Tifft’s visitors. The Ranger will also assist with trail and grounds maintenance. This position will be scheduled Thursday – Monday, 37.5 hours per week, with holidays as scheduled, shifts to change seasonally. Summer hours for this position are 12pm-8pm.
Note: this position is unarmed and is not a sworn law enforcement officer
Ecological Restoration Assistant
The Ecological Restoration Assistant will assist staff and work with volunteers to implement a grant-funded ecological renovation of Tifft’s East Canal. This multi-faceted position requires a passionate and motivated individual who has an interest in ecology and values the living environment. The successful candidate will take joy in performing physical labor outdoors on varied terrain in all weather conditions. The Ecological Restoration Assistant is a summer position that is scheduled to accommodate the academic calendar of most local higher ed institutions. This position is seasonal with a start date of 5/28/2025 and end date of 8/19/2025.
Tifft Discovery Camp Counselor
The Tifft Discovery Camp Counselors provide oversight of campers enrolled in Tifft Nature Preserve’s
Summer Discovery Camp programs. Counselors will work collaboratively with the Camp Director,
Facilitators of Learning, Volunteers, and other Counselors to provide memorable and engaging
experiences and a safe and fun summer for all campers. This position requires a friendly and positive
individual who is energized by working with children ages 3 – 10. Ideal candidates will possess an
interest in nature and enjoy being outdoors. The ability to be adaptable, proactive, and problem-solve
is also key. To maintain a safe environment, the Discovery Camp Counselors will understand and
adhere to the Department of Health Children’s Camp and other camp guidelines at all times
University of Maryland College Park
The IT Coordinator supports all aspects of computer and technical support in the Department of Veterinary Medicine. The IT Coordinator responds to requests for service on all UM computers and peripherals; sets up and records when needed video conferences; installs and troubleshoots hardware and software issues; sets up and manages user accounts, user groups, shared drives, folders and calendars. Works with faculty and Executive Coordinator to add content to and maintain the department web page. Maintains database of all AV/IT capital equipment plus full inventory of all UM tagged inventory (computers, screens, peripherals) and purchases new software and equipment as needed. As the Systems Administrator, the IT Coordinator maintains all user accounts and performs regular virus scans and data backups. The coordinator also stays up to date with technological changes by attending classes, workshops and webinars annually. Performs other duties as they are assigned and needed.
Extension Educator II - Turf Landscape (Hybrid Opportunity)
The Turf and Landscape Educator II will be an integral part of UMass Extension’s Commercial Horticulture group, supporting the development and implementation of educational resources and programming; including organization, presentation, and delivery of relevant research-based information to meet the needs of horticultural stakeholders statewide, with the enhancement of economic, human, and environmental health and sustainability of relevant industries as priorities. This position will support and deliver turf and landscape management and cross-commodity programming in collaboration with Extension staff and faculty, and other internal and external collaborators.
Coordinator, Nutrient Management Advisor
University of Maryland Extension (UME) Agriculture and Food Systems (AgFS) Program seeks candidates for a 12-month Agricultural Nutrient Management Program (ANMP) Nutrient Management Advisor. ANMP Nutrient Management Advisors develop nutrient management plans for agricultural producers to balance nutrient inputs with crop requirements, thus optimizing production potential, improving farm profitability, reducing excess nutrient inputs into the Chesapeake Bay and enabling producers to comply with the State of Maryland’s Water Quality Improvement Act of 1998.
Agent (Extension Specialist – Entomology in Ornamental Horticulture IPM)
University of Maryland Extension (UME) invites applications for a 12-month tenure-track position at the Agent or Senior Agent level to conduct applied research, provide educational programming, and offer entomology expertise in integrated pest management (IPM) in the commercial ornamental horticulture industries and UME personnel throughout Maryland. Specifically, the Extension Specialist will provide IPM leadership in entomology and delivery of educational programming in insect pest management to Maryland’s green industries including nursery, greenhouse, cut flower, arboriculture, Christmas tree, and landscape maintenance industries. The Extension Specialist will be expected to respond to a broad set of entomology needs within ornamental horticulture production and maintenance including delivery of information on IPM, biological insect management, evaluation of novel insecticide delivery options, monitoring and disseminating information on emerging pests, and other topics.
University of Maryland College Park
The position will be responsible for providing administrative support to the academic programs’ unit (graduate and undergraduate.) Graduate Program support will involve communicating with graduate constituents both internal and external; administrating the graduate program including admissions, communicating with and advising students, maintaining records, keeping up-to-date on changes that impact both programs, assisting with recruitment by coordinating advertising and meeting with prospective undergraduate and graduate students and giving tours, planning, executing and running departmental and recruiting events such as the Graduate Student Review Day and the Annual Symposium, and maintaining the graduate program website. Undergraduate Program Support will involve serving as the departmental scheduling officer for classrooms and courses, assisting with advising and recruitment activities, coordinating online course evaluations, assisting with new student orientations, and preparing administrative paperwork for both programs.
Agent Associate - Home Horticulture Educator & Master Gardener Coordinator
University of Maryland College Park
The Home Horticulture Educator and Master Gardener Coordinator is a part-time (.6 FTE - 24 hours per week) position that will work in support of the Baltimore City Home Horticulture Extension Program, which falls under UME’s Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) program area. The mission of ENR is to strengthen and improve individuals’ knowledge, skills and aspirations to make changes in their lives and the lives of others that positively affect the economy, the environment and the associated natural resources for current and future generations. The Educator will support the ENR programmatic area by educating the public on the research-based best practices regarding home and non-commercial horticulture.
Director Administrative Services
University of Maryland College Park
Provide financial oversight for the department to include administration of the state, revolving, and research budgets, presently totaling approximately $6.2 M; prepare and administer memoranda of understanding with various federal and state agencies; administer faculty grant funding accounts and provide account balance updates to each faculty at regular intervals. Managing the departmental budgets and ensuring the financial integrity of the department. Maintain long-term financial plan and projections for the department. Oversee administrative functions to ensure efficient and consistent operations. Assist faculty in preparing grant proposals, including a review of proposed budgets, cost-share justifications, and routing forms. Supervise support personnel to fulfill budgetary, computer hardware/software, word processing, office logistics, travel, personnel, and secretarial needs for the faculty, staff, and students.
Maryland SNAP-Ed Agent Associate - Prince George's County Nutrition Educator and Project Leader
The Nutrition Educator and Project Leader will deliver SNAP-Ed programs that encourage a
nutritious and active lifestyle through increased food access, drinking more water, and
promoting physical activity to low-income residents in Prince George's County with emphasis on
reaching SNAP recipients. SNAP-Ed's goal is to provide comprehensive programs that consist of
nutrition education lessons, indirect education and policy, system and environmental-level
changes at partnering sites.
The Department of Environmental Science & Technology (ENST) at the University of Maryland, College Park, MD, (UMD) is pleased to offer three Postdoctoral Associate positions.
Two of the Postdoctoral Associate positions will be led by Dr. Stephanie Lansing. One position will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team that is developing an app for food diversion and will oversee adding greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions values for diversion strategies. The second will work with a team on food waste and grass co-digestion at the county-level and oversee a life cycle assessment (LCA) of food waste and yard waste diversion. For more information and to apply please click on the following link: (2) Post-Doctoral-Associate Positions_JR100632
WNY PRISM is Hiring! All 2025 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!
For more information, including full job descriptions and to apply, visit https://www.rfhiring.com/jobs.asp.
Funding Opportunities
Previously featured
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Poultry Innovation Grand Challenge Funding Opportunity USDA Invests $100 Million to Combat Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
USDA has announced plans for a funding opportunity to explore prevention, therapeutics, research and potential vaccine candidates to fight highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). USDA will invest up to $100 million in these projects.
Funding is available, through a competitive process, to for-profit organizations, including manufacturers of vaccines, biologics, and therapeutics, states, universities, livestock producer organizations and other eligible entities. USDA will prioritize proposals that address one or more of the following:
- Development of novel therapeutics and improved diagnostics to address HPAI in poultry.
- Research to further understand risk pathways of avian influenza for producers and to inform improved biosecurity and response strategies. Development of novel vaccines to protect poultry from HPAI while promoting biosecurity.
- The notice of funding opportunity, including application instructions and additional information, is available on the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website. Applicants can also find information on the ezFedGrants website or Grants.gov by searching USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSP0000-25-0015. Deadline to apply is May 19.