IPM News and Events Roundup 08/08/2025

IPM News and Events Roundup

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.

Connect with the Northeastern IPM Center

Northeastern IPM Center News

IPM Insights, July 2025

EPA / FDA / USDA / NIFA News

Cooperative Extension Serving Up Food Safety

Foodborne illness outbreaks related to fresh produce pose a threat to farm operations and profitability. Cooperative Extension at the country’s Land-grant Colleges and Universities offers vital resources to ensure that farmers have the tools they need to safely grow, harvest, process and ship their produce to market. Read more to learn about what Extension is doing across the nation to serve farmers.

Secretary Rollins Targets Invasive Species, Announces Next Steps to Clear the Chesapeake from Harmful Catfish

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture is making $6 million in grant funding available for seafood processors to expand operations, transform the food supply chain and create new and better markets for the processing of invasive, wild-caught catfish. Additionally, USDA, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Agriculture, is launching a one-year pilot program to purchase up to $2 million through Section 32 of Chesapeake Bay blue catfish. The effort will support regional processors, remove invasive catfish from the Bay, and provide nutritious protein to families in need through food banks and other food distributors.

Do Cover Crops Stabilize Wine Grape Productivity in a Variable Climate? – Pennsylvania

PROVIDING GROWERS WITH MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BELOW GROUND INTERACTIONS BETWEEN GRAPE VINES AND COVER CROPS TO INFORM VINEYARD MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.

“ If growers are to change their management practices, they need to know what is going on below ground, how the root system of their vines is impacted by competing with cover crop grasses. Perhaps the roots will be smaller, perhaps they will grow deeper--going into this research we really did not know and had very limited information. This grant was very helpful in funding a field study of the root interactions of vines and grasses and the impacts on vine root systems.”

— Dr. Michela Centinari, Graduate Student Advisor

Pork Producers

With a 100% mortality rate and no vaccine for pigs, African swine fever poses a grave threat to commercial producers. While the virus has not been detected in the United States, international travel, trade, and the disease’s easy transmission puts your herd at risk. It’s important to remain vigilant, practice and enforce proven prevention steps, and enhance your farm’s biosecurity plans and practices.

Research in the news

Comparing Integrated Pest Management approaches: European Union vs. United States (academic.oup.com)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a critical strategy for sustainable agriculture, aiming to minimize risks associated with the use of chemical pesticides while managing pest populations effectively. This article compares agricultural IPM implementation strategies, evaluation, and monitoring mechanisms in the European Union (EU) and the United States, highlighting their strengths and challenges. The comparative analysis focuses on regulatory frameworks, implementation strategies, compliance, and enforcement, providing insights into refining global IPM practices for enhanced agricultural sustainability. However, with the recent withdrawal of the EU’s Sustainable Use of Pesticides Regulation, the future of pesticide reduction goals in the EU remains uncertain. This evolving policy landscape provides a timely opportunity to reassess IPM strategies in both regions.

The mind of a predatory worm (science.org)

Connectomics, the detailed mapping of synaptic connections in neural circuits or entire brains, holds the promise of understanding the basis of how neural networks process information (network computation) and produce behavior. Comparing the connectomes of different species extends this promise by relating differences in connectomes to differences in behavior. When it comes to connectomes of complete nervous systems, the nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans, with its nervous system of 302 neurons, has always had a trailblazing role. It was for this worm that the first complete connectome of a nervous system of an entire animal was reconstructed from electron microscopy images in 1986 (1). On page 476 of this issue, Cook et al. (2) report a comparison between the complete connectomes of two related species of nematode worm: C. elegans and the predatory Pristionchus pacificus. The findings suggest that behavioral differences between the species are not just based on a single change but result from alterations to synaptic connections, growth patterns, and cell death.

Predation of spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) by generalist arthropod predators in North America (link.springer.com)

Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula White, (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae)) is a non-native, invasive pest with a broad host range that has rapidly spread since its discovery in the United States in 2014. Managing emerging invasive pests can be challenging as repeated insecticide inputs can lead to resistance and impact non-target organisms. Alternative strategies, such as biological control, reduce risks but require extensive investigation before implementation. A recent community science study suggests that arthropods are major predators of L. delicatula. However, this pest can sequester toxins from its preferred host, tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), which may defend it from predation. Thus, we tested a variety of predatory arthropods against all life stages of L. delicatula to determine if they would avoid prey fed on A. altissima compared to other host plants.

Real-Time Integrative Mapping of the Phenology and Climatic Suitability for the Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (mdpi.com)

The spotted lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula (White, 1845) (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae), is expected to cause major disruptions to fruit, ornamental, and forest industries in the United States and other countries. We present a model that predicts the seasonal development (phenology) of the SLF in areas that are climatically suitable for establishment. The model was developed using previously published data and presence records from the native range. An independent set of presence records and phenological observations was used for the model validation. The model performed well but needs further validation using monitoring data from across the SLF’s distribution in North America. Cold and heat stresses may be insufficient to exclude the SLF in most parts of the conterminous United States; however, an inability for the pest to complete its life cycle in cold areas may hinder establishment. Feeding pressure on host plants may be greater in warm regions owing to the earlier appearance of adults. The near-real-time forecasts produced by the model are available at two websites to support decision making for the surveillance and management of the SLF.

Waste not: How insect oil could revolutionize animal wellness (phys.org)

A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem shows promising advances in sustainable farming and animal nutrition. A team of researchers led by Professor Bertha (Betty) Schwartz from the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment have uncovered powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties in oil derived from black soldier fly larvae (BSFL)—a waste-to-resource superfood already making waves in animal feed and fertilizer.

News

Undergrad weeds team takes silver at collegiate weed science contest (blogs.cornell.edu)

Cornell’s undergraduate weed team finished second in the 2025 Northeastern Weed Science Society Weed Contest, July 29 at the Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Bridgeton, N.J. This educational event brought together 114 attendees and volunteers, including 51 graduate and undergraduate students from 5 universities across the northeastern region and Canada.

Cut Flower Updates: August 8, 2025

Penn State Extension, author weekly pest, weed, disease, and production updates for cut flower growers (https://extension.psu.edu/campaigns/cut-flower-updates). They are posted each Friday morning, and while they are geared towards PA growers, they include information that is useful for our wider region. Folks can sign up for email reminders when a new update is posted by visiting https://extension.psu.edu/email-preferences and selecting "Commercial Cut Flowers" under email preferences.

Across the Atlantic: How IPM Strategies Compare in the EU and U.S. (entomologytoday.org)

As global agriculture faces mounting pressure to reduce pesticide risks while maintaining productivity, integrated pest management (IPM) remains a cornerstone of sustainable farming. Yet, how IPM is implemented, evaluated, and enforced varies widely across regions.

2025 Cornell Weed Science Shirts Available for Purchase (blogs.cornell.edu)

We are now taking orders for this year’s Cornell Weed Science T-shirts. This year’s theme is on new technologies with the T-shirt designed by undergraduate student, Eddie Monaco.
The Unisex Ice Blue colored T-shirts are 60/40 cotton/poly CVC blend and available at a cost of $18 in the following sizes: XXL, XL, X, L, M, S, XS.
Funds raised by this T-shirt sale will go towards supporting our Cornell Weed Science graduate and undergraduate students who compete annually in weed science competitions in the region and beyond.

Drones Prove Optimal in Spreading Gall Insects to Control Invasive Trees in Hawai‘i (entomologytoday.org)

Strawberry guava (Psidium cattleyanum) is an invasive tree species that disrupts ecosystem dynamics in Hawai‘i and many other tropical regions throughout the world. Tectococcus ovatus is a scale insect that forms leaf galls in strawberry guava and is effective for biological control of strawberry guava infestations. But distribution of T. ovatus onto strawberry guava is hampered by practical limitations on time required for application and on access to dense stands of vegetation.

To help overcome these limitations, researchers at the University of Hawai‘i (UH) at Hilo and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service (USFS) tested the use of aerial drones and helicopters to drop T. ovatus gall insects on strawberry guava. They report their findings in an article published in June in the Journal of Economic Entomology.

Fight Weeds with Time: Delay Winter Wheat Planting to Manage Cheat and Downy Brome (growiwm.org)

Cheat and cheatgrass ring true to their names – they sneak into wheatfields, grow alongside the grain and then rob farmers of winter wheat yields. To help farmers fight these troublesome grassy weeds, researchers recently published a study examining the best planting date, herbicide choice, and winter wheat variety selection for controlling cheat and cheatgrass (also known as downy brome).

Their research found that delaying wheat planting dates and applying ALS-inhibiting herbicides greatly reduced cheat and downy brome, but winter wheat yields suffered as planting dates got later, according to University of Georgia graduate student Hannah Lindell and her then-Oklahoma State advisor, weed scientist Dr. Misha Manuchehri. Winter wheat variety showed no effect on weed management, potentially due to sporadic weed pressure or the use of limited varieties.

France’s top court strikes down pesticide clause in farming law

France’s highest court on Thursday blocked a key part of a contentious farming law that would have brought back a banned pesticide.

The court said that the measure failed to protect the environment and future generations. The rest of the law — known as the “Duplomb law,” after the senator who proposed it — was allowed to stand.

Boston-area residents, ecologists fight black swallow-wort spread (axios.com)

Armed with a pair of scissors, Amy Collier slashes long pod-bearing vines that encroach on Jamaica Plain sidewalks and parks while out walking.

Workers near the Boston Nature Center and the Bell Isle March have embarked on the same mission— to stop the invasion of the black swallow-wort.

Why it matters: Boston-area conservationists and residents have declared war on the invasive plant, which takes over yards and kills monarch butterfly eggs.

Discarded food blamed after 22-inch rat found (bbc.com)

Thrown-out food and new housing developments are being blamed for rats getting "bigger and bigger" after a 22-inch (55cm) long rodent was found in a house.

It was discovered in Normanby near Middlesbrough and residents said an increase in vermin was being made worse by new housing projects forcing them out of their habitats.

Participation Requested

Summer Turkey Survey

Instructions:

Record sightings during the month of August.
Submit a separate report for each flock of turkeys observed, including those without poults.
Do NOT double count poults as 'Unknown Age/Sex'. Example: if you see 2 hens and 14 poults and no other birds, enter 2 adult hens and 14 poults. Do not enter any for 'Unknown Age/Sex' in this scenario.
Record the sex for all adults present. Generally, but not always, adult birds will be the same sex in any given flock.
Make an attempt not to report the same flock multiple times. Numerous duplications will bias the results.

Thanks for your help!

Regional IPM Centers Proposal Reviewer Sign-up

Every year, the four Regional IPM Centers run IPM proposal review panels. There is a need for reviewers with applied experience in IPM or related fields to serve on these panels. This is a great opportunity for an early career professional to learn how the review process works and for more experienced professionals to share their wisdom.

Review panels are typically virtual and meet in January. Reviewers typically serve on panels outside of their own region to avoid Conflicts of Interest. For example, reviewers volunteering from the Southern region may serve in the North Central Region. The review panels are typically a 3-4 hour virtual meeting and panelists are typically asked to review between 6-9 proposals.

If you are interested in being a reviewer on a Regional IPM panel, please fill out the attached form. If you have previously completed this form, you do not need to submit it again. If your expertise aligns with a panel’s needs, you may be contacted. A list of reviewers will be shared with all four regional centers.

Webinars, seminars, meetings, and more

Newly featured this issue

Cornell Vegetable Variety Showcase and Pathology Twilight Meeting

The Cornell School of Integrative Plant Science will host a vegetable variety showcase and pathology twilight meeting Wednesday, August 20, at the Homer C. Thompson Vegetable Research Farm in Freeville, NY. The program will feature field walks, vegetable trial tours, and variety tasting, followed by a social hour with food and refreshments, thanks to our sponsors Johnny's Selected Seeds and Bejo Seeds.

A total of 2 DEC Pesticide Credits will be available in categories 10, 1a, and 23.

Please find the agenda following and register by August 18 so that we can plan logistics.

Homer C. Thompson Vegetable Research Farm
133 Fall Creek Rd.
Freeville, NY 13068

Wednesday, August 20, 2025 | 5 – 8:30 p.m.

GrowON Webinar: Cybersecurity for Greenhouses, August 13th @ noon

Do you work in a greenhouse that uses a climate control system, sensors, automation or robotics? If your answer is yes, this webinar is for you. No matter the size of your operation, if you are using digital tools, you are a potential target for a cyber-attack. This informative webinar breaks down what threats to watch for, how to protect your systems, and why it matters more than ever. Join us from 12 – 1pm on August 13th to learn more.

Live Stream: Spend a Little, Save a Lot

On Wednesday, August 27, GrowerTalks will be hosting a live stream on proper application timing of pre-emergence herbicides. Keeping weeds from popping up in the first place can be the most effective tool to reduce pressure and the need to hand pull nuisance plants. Envu sponsored a third-party assessment of the costs and savings of a comprehensive weed control program.
This event includes two expert guests, Janna Beckerman, Ph.D. and Steve Larson. Janna is an ornamentals technical specialist at Envu and part of their Green Services Team and Steve is the Greenhouse and Nursery Specialist. Both bring decades of experience to share from both academic and commercial backgrounds.

Just like weeding, neglecting this opportunity can be costly! The live stream is free and you can register using this link here. We hope to see you at 1 p.m. Eastern, Noon Central on August 27!

2025 New York Invasive Species Expo

The 2025 New York Invasive Species Expo returns to Saratoga Spa State Park as New York’s premier conference on invasive species. Transcending conventional conference formats, the Expo creatively uses the park’s scenic outdoor spaces and historic buildings to offer dynamic, hands-on experiences alongside traditional presentations and posters. Connect with leading resource experts to explore and learn the latest updates and advancements in invasive species management.

September 14 - 16, 2025

Saratoga Spa State Park / Saratoga Springs, NY

Register here

Previously featured

CHAINSAW SAFETY, OPERATION AND CUTTING TIPS

This workshop will dive into the parts of the chainsaw that need to be fully operational in order to comply with safety regulations as well as go over necessary PPE, body posture, and cutting tips to enable you to address falling trees, limbing, bucking and cutting in general.

Fee: $140

Wednesday, September 3, 2025, 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM

*RAINDATE: SEPTEMBER 4, 2025

Flyer: Chainsaw Program

Register: Chainsaw Safety, Operation and Cutting Tips

“Best Picks for '26”

Which new flower introductions does Sue Adams recommend? She visits trials at Lucas Greenhouses, Penn State, Pleasant View Gardens and D.S. Cole, conducts her own trial and has worked with S.U.N.Y. Cobleskill to establish a trial at their campus.

September 9, 2025, 7 pm

Meeting id 891 4723 5779 Passcode 741953

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89147235779?pwd=hhJKHo3j64EF279uQr9DUtrbvzmVFw.1

Speakers from the New York Soil Health Program and the Yates County Soil and Water Conservation District will discuss soil health for Christmas tree production, and Dan Weykman from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will discuss how participants can access NRCS programs that support the installation of habitat for pollinators and other beneficial insects on farms.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to tour Cornell IPM’s Christmas tree plot and learn about the program’s ongoing Swiss needlecast project in Douglas fir.
An update on tree growth and survival using different weed management and root disease management strategies will also be provided.
Dinner will be provided and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Pesticide Recertification Credits will also be available.
The cost of the event is $40.

Wednesday, August 20 from 5 to 7:45 p.m. at
Cornell AgriTech’s Vegetable Research Farm
1097 County Road 4, Geneva

Adam Osgood, Joel Voron and Richard Pollack, three experts and leaders of the MuseumPests community will be presenting a free webinar From Awareness to Action: Advocating for Integrated Pest Management in Cultural Spaces on August 27, 2025 at 1:00-2:00pm ET

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an important part of protecting collections in cultural institutions. This webinar will provide a brief overview of IPM and focus on how to build support for it within your institution. Attendees will learn which tasks can be handled by staff and when it’s necessary to bring in a pest management professional (PMP). The session will also cover what to expect from a PMP contractor, how to write contracts that reflect your institution’s IPM goals, and how to work with service providers to ensure they deliver effective and collection-safe pest management. This webinar is ideal for anyone looking to start or improve an IPM program with strong institutional backing and contractor support.

From Bites to Insights: Hands-on Ectoparasite and Vector Identification, Collection, and Surveillance Training

Sunday, August 10th, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Baltimore, MD

This workshop provides a crash course on ectoparasites and vectors, crucial for both human and animal health. Participants will gain practical, hands-on experience in identifying common ectoparasites (including ticks, fleas, mites, and lice) and will learn about techniques for safely collecting ectoparasites from animal hosts and vector surveillance methods. A key focus will be assessing vector-borne disease risks and developing strategies to prevent bites and disease transmission. This interactive training is designed to equip professionals with the skills to enhance vector surveillance and mitigation efforts in their respective fields.

Blueberry 101

Enhance your knowledge of blueberry production by joining our four-part webinar series, featuring leading experts who will share research-based strategies for managing common challenges in blueberry cultivation. Each session will focus on a key topic: disease management with Dr. Bill Cline (September 30), insect management with Dr. Rufus Isaacs (October 7), weed pest management with Dr. Thierry E. Besançon (October 14), and fertility and nutrition with Kathy Demchak (October 21).

Register By: September 29, 2025.
Tuesdays
September 30, 2025, and October 7, 14, & 21, 2025
(1:00 PM-2:00 PM)
See event fee details

Northeast Greenhouse Conference and Expo

Save the Date

2025 Northeast Greenhouse Conference & Expo
November 12 & 13, 2025
Doubletree by Hilton Manchester Downtown Hotel and Expo Center

Join us for the 2025 Maine Rodent Academy in Portland (or virtually!)

Join us for a Rodent Integrated Pest Management (IPM) training (Rodent Academy) led by nationally recognized rodentologist Dr. Bobby Corrigan, hosted by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. This engaging, credit-approved training takes place August 28–29 in Portland, Maine (virtual option available on August 28) and offers up to 11 Maine pesticide credits (6 credits for virtual attendees). Pre-register at this link to be the first to hear when registration opens. Slots fill up very quickly!

Communicating with Farmers Under Stress

Join Extension Educators for this event for professionals who serve the agricultural industry and work with farmers and their families. This webinar will help ag professionals recognize the signs of stress and how to communicate with and respond to farmers and their family members when they need assistance.

Who is this for?

Ag Professionals
Farm Employees

What will you learn?

How to identify signs of stress
Discover tips for handling stress on the job and when working with clients
Become aware of resources available for you or your clients

August 19, 2025
(1:00 PM-3:00 PM ET)

Save the Date!

New York State Agritourism Conference

November 10 and 11, 2025

Saratoga Springs, NY

2025 Webinar Series for Greenhouse, Nursery and Garden Center Professionals.

These monthly webinars address topics of plant health and greenhouse operations and award one New England pesticide applicator recertification credit each.

Monthly, 6:30 – 8:00 PM, $10 each.

Registration and more info: https://extension.unh.edu/blog/2025/01/2025-webinar-series-greenhouse-nursery-garden-center-professionals

August 26 | Ultra-low volume sprayers: Are foggers right for you? Calibrating and mixing with Jason Grimmett, Dramm Corporation

September 30 | How to choose pesticides and build effective spray regimens with Jonathan Ebba, UNH

October 28 | How to train employees to water with Jonathan Ebba, UNH

November 25 | A biocontrol starter pack with Jonathan Ebba, UNH

December 16 | In-house root zone testing with Jonathan Ebba, UNH

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.

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

Employment Opportunities

Newly featured this issue

Research Foundation - Biodiversity Data Researcher (Research Scientist)

The New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP) is seeking a Biodiversity Data Researcher to assess the impacts of invasive species on native biodiversity for a short-term, project-based appointment. In collaboration with NYNHP science staff and regional invasive species managers, the Biodiversity Data Researcher will analyze decades of data collected on rare species, significant natural communities, and invasive species in New York State to quantify impacts to biodiversity and provide information to stakeholders that aids in strategic invasive species management decisions.

NYNHP has been documenting conditions of and threats to rare species and significant natural communities across the state for 40 years. NYNHP has also been managing invasive species data from all stakeholders for the state for 15 years. Throughout New York State, there are currently over 17,000 documented locations of rare species and over 350,000 observations of invasive species. An initial spatial analysis of these extensive spatial datasets shows that 28% of documented rare species occurrences are co-located with invasive species observations. However, not all species intersections will be impactful depending on species' biology or site-characteristics.

Previously featured

Invasive Species Specialist

This position will support the VDOF's invasive species initiatives in central and western Virginia. Duties include monitoring activities to survey forests for non-native species, coordinating treatment on public lands, producing educational materials, assisting communities and forest landowners, and working to support/develop Virginia PRISM (Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management) organizations. The invasive species specialist will collaborate with other state agencies, federal partners, and non-profit and community groups to plan and implement projects that mitigate the negative impact of invasive species in Virginia’s forests.

The application deadline is August 15th.

For more information and to apply - https://www.jobs.virginia.gov/jobs/invasive-species-specialist-charlottesville-virginia-united-states-salem

Research Foundation - Biodiversity Data Researcher (Research Scientist)

Biological Science Laboratory Technicians

We’re seeking qualified candidates based in Ames, IA; Manhattan, KS; and Orient Point, NY. A recruitment or relocation incentive may be offered.

In this role, you will organize and manage a wide variety of standard techniques in performing diagnostic tests, reagent production, developmental studies, and training assignments related to animal pathogens having significant economic importance to the livestock industry. Specialized experience varies based on the grade candidates are applying for.

IR-4 Project Executive Director

The primary function of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service (NCARS) unit is to develop the knowledge and technology needed to improve productivity, profitability and sustainability of industries in agriculture and the life sciences; develop ways to conserve and improve the state’s natural resources and environment; improve the health, well-being and quality of life of North Carolina’s citizens; and provide the science based research for academic and extension programs.

The IR-4 Project is a national Federal/State partnership research program to assist farmers of fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs, ornamentals, and other specialty crops by facilitating registration of safe and effective chemical and bio-based pest management products. The IR-4 Project is needed because the crop protection industry focuses their research efforts on major crops such as corn, soybean, and cotton that provide the companies adequate return on their development investment. The IR-4 proactively identifies available and emergent products to provide strategic pest-management tools to enhance profitability and sustainability outcomes for farmers of specialty crops. IR-4 Project Headquarters provides national leadership, coordination and regulatory compliance for the IR-4 Project research activities performed by approx. 125 scientists at over 20 public sector research farms and four analytical laboratories throughout the United States.

Temporary Field Assistant

Work with a team of innovative researchers and educators to help us conduct applied agricultural research in sustainable pest management. Projects include work on fruit, vegetable, and ornamental crops, as well as insect, plant disease, and weed pests. Work will be done both on research farms in Geneva, and on commercial farms in central and/or western NY (requiring some travel, but no overnight stays). This is a fully in-person position located at Cornell AgriTech in Geneva, NY. Specific tasks may include: helping maintain field trials, measuring field soil data and plant parameters, scouting for insects, entering data, taking pictures, helping with crop harvest, assessing plant quality, and assisting with logistics for educational events (either virtual or in-person). Plant maintenance tasks may include loading and driving supplies to fields in a project assigned pickup truck, mowing with a walk-behind mower, weeding, pruning, and keeping appropriate records of activities and results. You may work with plants that have been treated with pesticides. We will provide all necessary personal protective equipment and training.

4-H Extension Educator II - Mt. Ida (Hybrid Opportunity)

The 4-H Extension Educator for the Norfolk and Suffolk Counties, located at the Mount Ida Campus, will provide programmatic leadership and management for the Massachusetts 4-H Youth Development Programs. Develop and implement educational programs and resources for youth ages 5-18 while providing support and oversight for collaborating with adult volunteers and partner organizations. The Educator is part of a team that coordinates activities, processes and functions with other 4-H educators and administrators across the state.

EIQ and Neonicotinoid Economics Support Specialist

The New York State Integrated Pest Management Program (NYSIPM) at Cornell AgriTech is part of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). The Program/Extension Aid III will provide support to the improvement of the EIQ, a web-based decision support tool that consolidates potential pesticide risks to farm workers, consumers, and non-target organisms into a single metric. As a critical tool for promoting sustainable pesticide use and mitigating environmental and human health risks, the EIQ requires ongoing maintenance and enhancement. With the availability of new pesticide exposure data, there is a need to refine the calculation methodology to improve its accuracy and applicability. This person will support the expansion and improvement to strengthen the NYSIPM scientific rigor, usability, and impact of the EIQ, ensuring its continued role as a valuable resource for sustainable pesticide management in New York and beyond.