IPM News and Events Roundup 09/19/2025
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
Updated Priorities and Reports - Vegetable IPM Working Group
Updated membership - Vegetable and Small Fruit IPM Working Group
A “Sweet” High-Tech Test for Cocoa Powder Replacement
RS Chemist Chris Maragos is discovering new ways to detect fungal toxins (“mycotoxins”) in food and keep them out of grains like corn so that they’re safe for people and livestock to eat.
Now, an offshoot of his efforts could help fight food fraud, such as when carob flour is passed off as cocoa powder.
Derived from the pods of a Mediterranean tree of the same name, carob flour has legitimate food uses. These include serving as an alternative for cocoa powder in baked goods, candies, beverages and other products. However, substituting carob flour for cocoa powder without disclosing it deprives consumers of the product they paid for and the quality they expected.
Research in the news
Mefenoxam sensitive isolates of Phytophthora infestans can quickly acquire and lose resistance to this fungicide (apsjournals.apsnet.org)
Phytophthora infestans is an oomycete that causes late blight disease in multiple solanaceous crops, including potato and tomato. This makes it a worldwide concern for farmers, given the level of crop loss and its explosive epidemic potential. Although fungicides have traditionally been used for managing this disease, populations of P. infestans resistant to fungicides have been documented. Furthermore, it has been shown that isolates considered originally sensitive to mefenoxam acquire resistance to it after a single exposure in vitro to low concentrations of this widely used fungicide. Previous studies have measured such resistance in terms of mycelial growth. However, there is still much unknown regarding how this phenomenon is triggered. Here, we explored the dynamics of how this resistance is gained and lost, both in terms of mycelial growth and sporangial production.
New from SARE: Farmer-to-Farmer Manuals on Specialty Crop Production, Harvest and Storage in the Northeast
Farmers know that producing and marketing high-quality crops requires careful attention to detail, from planting through storage. Now available from SARE, the Northeast Crop Production Manual and Northeast Harvest Manual are user-friendly guides offering step-by-step information on growing, harvesting and handling dozens of specialty crops, from arugula to watermelons. Developed by farmers themselves, these guides are ideal reference materials for beginning farmers, apprentices and crews based on years of on-the-ground experience.
The Northeast Crop Production Manual covers soil preparation, planting and transplanting, pest management, and more. The Northeast Harvest Manual addresses harvest timing, best practices for picking, and post-harvest handling and storage guidelines.
News
Eco-Label Programs Promote IPM, but Aren't Perfect (westernipm.org)
Eco Apple. Lodi Rules. SIP Certified. Whole Foods Responsibly Grown. Salmon Safe. Sysco Sustainable. And that’s just the beginning.
There are dozens of eco labels and sustainable agriculture certification programs in the United States, all designed to differentiate products in the marketplace and assure consumers that this apple, potato or bottle of wine was produced in an environmentally responsible manner.
But are eco-labeled products really better? And specifically, do they help drive the adoption and expansion of integrated pest management techniques that reduce pesticide risk?
The Big World of IPM (creators.spotify.com)
Welcome to the big world of IPM - integrated pest management! Pests are everywhere and ways to manage them safely and effectively are as diverse as the pests themselves. Throughout the Western United States, researchers develop new methods to solve these pest problems, from plant diseases and damaging insects in agricultural fields to rats in urban spaces. Join us to learn about these IPM experts’ unique journeys and how they help protect our homes, communities and environment in the safest ways possible.
West Virginia Reports First Cases of Alpha-gal Syndrome Linked to Lone Star Tick (wvnews.com)
West Virginia has confirmed its first cases of alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne illness that can trigger lifelong allergic reactions to meat and meat-based products.
The West Virginia Department of Health announced that 14 cases have been identified statewide, while the Monongalia County Health Department confirmed its first case last week.
Cover Crops for Weed Management: Get the Latest & Greatest from GROW (growiwm.org)
As cover crop use grows more common, so does research seeking to answer important questions about how this practice can help farmers suppress weeds.
That’s why the GROW team recently updated and expanded its Cover Crop Management webpage, to try to account for a wave of new research and information on this topic.
To protect birds from windows, change human behavior (news.cornell.edu)
Bird lovers are more motivated to take action to prevent birds from colliding with their windows by messages that emphasize the effectiveness of those measures, while emotional appeals are more persuasive for the general public, a new Cornell study has found.
2026 Insecticide, Miticide & Fungicide Guide (growertalks.com)
Well you’re in luck, for more than 20 years GrowerTalks magazine has published their annual guide for chemical application pest control, the Insecticide, Miticide & Fungicide Guide. The 2026 version is hot off the press. These are updated every year to ensure you have the most up-to-date information. Any changes in formulation, application, recommendations and labeling are organized in this one-stop-shop style guide.
The guide is conveniently available in both English and Spanish, so you can share it with your entire team. Download each at the links above. A special thanks to BASF for sponsoring the guide.
Spotted Lanternflies Show Up On Weather Radar (weather.com)
People across the mid-Atlantic states were told they were coming, but they probably did not expect so many spotted lanternflies to have descended on the region; they showed up on weather radar this week. See it for yourself and learn why these plant hoppers are dangerous.
Announcements
Open Seats on Northeast SARE's Administrative Council
Seeking New Administrative Council Members
Northeast SARE is recruiting 3 seats on its Administrative Council (AC) including:
- A Beginning Farmer (profit/non-profit/cooperative) producing and distributing for local and regional markets.
- A Social Scientist knowledgeable about environmentally efficient agriculture and community development.
- An Agricultural geologist/Agrogeologist knowledgeable about one or more of the following fields: 1. soil formation/properties; 2. mineral applications; 3. land management; 4. water resources; and/or 5. environmental management.
All three seats are open only to residents of the Northeast region.
The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program is funded by USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and hosted by the University of Vermont. We offer 7 different grant programs for farmers, educators, agricultural service providers, researchers, graduate students and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture.
The AC is a 23-member governance body that sets our regional policies, participates in grant reviews and committees, and makes final award decisions for all SARE grant programs. The AC includes farmers, agency personnel, Extension, nonprofits, industry, researchers and others from across the Northeast.
The AC has a winter meeting (2.5 days in mid-February, in Burlington VT) and a summer meeting (1.5 days in July, plus an farm/project tour day). We also have virtual spring and fall meetings if required. New members join the AC at its summer meeting, which rotates around the region.
AC members participate on review panels for grant programs of their choosing. Some members rotate across programs over the years, and others stick with one or two they really like, such as Farmer Grants or Graduate Student Grants. Reviewing takes two to four days in total typically, depending on the grant program. That work is over the multi-week review period. It's a great way to learn about innovative ideas that are emerging in the ag and food community.
AC terms are for 4 years, with the option of renewing for 2 more years. Almost all members decide to renew, as they find their time on the AC to be rewarding.
Northeast SARE covers expenses associated with attending meetings, and pays a per-diem for meetings and reviewing for their time if it is not covered by your employer.
For your nomination to move forward, I will need a letter describing your interest and summarizing your relevant experience, plus a brief resume, sent to me no later than November 1.
Our process is that the Executive Committee of the AC will review your information and then send your nomination to the AC for a vote, which would be done by email, since the winter AC meeting was last month. New members then join us at the summer meeting. I will be scheduling an orientation call with all new members later this spring.
My apologies for the long email but I want you to have enough information to make an informed decision! I would be pleased to answer any questions you may have.
I am available to talk if you need more information.
Teresa E. Leslie, PhD
Director, Northeast SARE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Soil & Climate Initiative and IPM Institute Partner to Advance Sustainable Agriculture Through Integrated Pest Management and Regenerative Practices
Soil & Climate Initiative (SCI) and IPM Institute of North America, Inc. are proud to announce a new partnership to advance sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices that foster healthy agroecosystems and support farm profitability and long-term resilience. This new collaboration reflects both organizations’ dedication to advancing stewardship and strengthening the agriculture system.
By joining forces, SCI and IPM Institute are opening the door to new opportunities that will strengthen support for farmers while integrating efforts to mitigate pesticide risk and improve soil health, biodiversity, water quality, and climate resilience. Through information exchange, thought leadership, and cooperative engagement, the organizations’ aligned efforts will generate new value for farmers and supply chain partners.
“This collaboration is the natural next step in our shared commitment to regenerative agriculture,” said Adam Kotin, Managing Director of SCI. “Our partnership with IPM Institute positions us to better support growers in implementing feasible, meaningful improvements, regardless of where they are in their regenerative journey.”
Previously, SCI and IPM Institute collaborated to develop the framework for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) planning and pesticide use and risk reduction in SCI’s Soil & Climate Health Commitment & Verification Standard. The standard provides farmers and supply chains with a science-based, third-party verified framework to enhance soil health, improve farm resilience, and demonstrate measurable sustainability outcomes that foster trust and create market opportunities.
The measurement approach SCI and IPM Institute developed for pesticide intensity calculations represents a significant advancement in agricultural sustainability standards. Unlike most certification programs that use binary restrictions, their system tracks active ingredients by EPA signal word categories—creating nuanced reduction pathways that acknowledge the realities of transitioning farms while maintaining rigorous environmental protection. This data-driven
methodology enables producers to demonstrate measurable progress in synthetic input reduction, providing supply chain partners with transparent metrics that support both regenerative goals and practical farm management decisions.
Christopher Stevenson, Executive Director, IPM Institute, added, “We’re thrilled to partner with SCI to bring IPM and regenerative agriculture together at scale. Synthetic input reduction is a key pillar of regenerative systems that is often left out of the conversation. With this partnership, we’re equipped to integrate regenerative and IPM approaches in our work with food companies and supply chains to deliver synthetic input reduction, greater benefits for soil health, water quality, biodiversity and human health, while improving the farm's bottom line. Our collaboration seeks to improves the resilience of our food system.”
This alliance marks a milestone in the missions of SCI and IPM Institute, combining their expertise to expand reach and deliver tangible value across the food supply chain. Farmers, food companies, and stakeholders are invited to join the effort to advance practices that protect ecosystems and create a more resilient, sustainable future for agriculture.
Participation Requested
Cornell Crop and Pest Management Guidelines Reimaging project
Cornell IPM is inviting you to share your feedback on how to improve the Crop and Pest Management Guidelines.
Cornell IPM is partnering with Illume Projects on this project and there are two ways you can help us:
- Interviews: Illume is in the process of scheduling brief interviews to gather input from users of the Cornell Crop and Pest Management Guidelines and would appreciate speaking with you. If you use the Guidelines and would like to participate in an interview or survey, please complete this brief form so Illume can reach you. CLICK FOR FORM
- Referrals: Illume is seeking referrals to others you know outside CCE who use the Guidelines (growers, consultants, industry reps, advisors, etc.) to also participate in interviews or a survey. Please provide any referrals through the form link above.
Consultants Kelly White and Sheila Squier from Illume Projects will follow up with more information to confirm details.
We look forward to your input on the Guidelines. We value your input and want to hear from you.
Please respond to the FORM by Friday, September 19th.
Webinars, seminars, meetings, and more
Newly featured this issue
NYS Agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, mitigation and future scenarios
Jeni Wigtman, Soil & Crop Science
Soil & Crop Sciences
Thursday, September 25, 12:20 – 1:10 pm, 135 Emerson & Zoom
NOFA-NY’s - 44th Annual Winter Conference
NOFA-NY’s Winter Conference convenes hundreds of farmers, food system professionals, educators, advocates, homesteaders, and gardeners who are passionate about advancing organic principles that create better food and farming systems. Please stay tuned for more.
Save the Date: January 9-10 at Purchase College
Start spreading the news!!! NYSDEC’s CleanSweepNY pesticide disposal program is coming to New York City and Long Island for Fall 2025.
Riverhead (Suffolk)– Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Melville (Suffolk) – Wednesday, October 29, 2025
North Merrick (Nassau) – Thursday, October 30, 2025
Forest Park (Queens) – Friday, October 31, 2025
Participants from neighboring boroughs and counties are encouraged to participate at one of these locations.
CleanSweepNY services are provided to farmers, certified pesticide applicators and technicians, municipalities, city and county agencies, colleges, pesticide business, garden centers.
Homeowners are not eligible for this service.
Join us for the 2025 Greenhouse Best Management Practices Workshop
The 2025 Greenhouse Best Management Practices workshop will be held October 2 at Estabrook’s new facility in Pownal, ME from 9:00 AM to 4:15 PM. This state-of-the-art greenhouse will provide an inspiring backdrop for a full day of training covering weed management, common greenhouse arthropod pests and biocontrol, pesticide product selection and updates on regulations, and a panel discussion on updating and building greenhouse facilities. Attendees will hear from experienced growers and specialists, with plenty of time for questions and discussion.
Approved for 4 pesticide recertification credits in Maine, the program is designed to give greenhouse and nursery professionals practical tools to improve operations and stay current with best practices. The $25 registration fee includes morning coffee and refreshments; please bring your own lunch. Pre-register to be the first to hear when online registration opens!
GrowON Webinar, September 24th: Thrips parvispinus Control – Where We’re At and Where We’re Headed.
When it comes to Thrips parvispinus control, many growers are asking, are we there yet? Join us to learn where we are in terms of biocontrol and chemical control for this invasive pest. This presentation will summarize research being conducted in Ontario, Florida and Europe, and put it into context in terms of strategies growers can implement now. Future research directions will also be discussed.
Note, this presentation was given live at Greenhouse Canada's Grower Day in June 2025. This webinar is hoping to reach those that weren't able to attend in person!
Time: Wednesday, September 24th, 12-1pm
Registration:
Please register for Part 2 of this Webinar series by using this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_30N3jt1KRbOyva0s7oh5Dg
Previously featured
IPM Institute of North America’s Tick IPM Working Group, with support from the North Central IPM Center, is excited to announce that the sixth annual Tick Academy will be held virtually via Zoom on October 15 and 16, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. CDT. The Tick Academy offers participants the opportunity to hear the latest research, explore new tools and strategies and connect with others working to stop the spread of ticks and tick-borne diseases.
The two-day virtual conference features eleven professionals representing a range of organizations and disciplines. Speakers will share new developments and research in the field of ticks, followed by interactive live Q&A sessions. This year’s event offers free registration for students along with a virtual student-poster presentation and an online sponsor trade show each day! For more information and to register, visit: https://ipminstitute.org/services/tick-academy
Please join UVM Ext NWCS and NECCC
on Wednesdays from October 1, 2025 to November 5, 2025, for a webinar series on cover crops, interseeding, and more. Each webinar will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Eastern time. When you pre-register, you will receive a confirmation email that includes the Zoom link information for the webinar.
The dates, topics, and speakers include:
Oct. 1 - Cover crops for forage with Heather Darby, University of Vermont
Oct. 8 - National Cover Crop Variety Testing Network: 2024-2025 Trial Results with Etienne Sutton, MU Center for Regenerative Agriculture
Oct. 15 - Cover crops and pest dynamics with John Tooker, Penn State
Oct. 22 - Cover crop interseeding and drone seeding with Jeff Sanders, University of Vermont, and Heidi Reed, Penn State
Oct. 29 - Cover crops and nutrient dynamics with Charlie White, Penn State
Nov. 5 - Cover crops and soil water dynamics with Daniela Carrijo, Penn State, and Cara Peterson, University of Maryland
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County, in partnership with Statewide Cornell Cooperative Extension, is offering Seeds to Success: An Ag Education professional development program designed to give agriculture educators from CCE the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to better support farmers with business planning.
Through a mix of in-person sessions, on-farm learning, and interactive Zoom workshops, participants will explore key topics such as workforce development, farm business management, accounting, access to capital, and marketing. The program is open to educators in any role who work with producers and ag businesses, and each cohort is capped at 30 participants to ensure supportive, hands-on experience.
On-Farm Kickoff – Oct. 3 @ Ortensi Farm, Richfield Springs
5 Expert-Led Zoom Sessions – Oct. 10 – Nov. 7 (Fridays, 10 AM–Noon)
Finale & Wrap-Up – Nov. 14 @ CCE Oneida
Sessions feature Sarah Williford (Holistic Management International) and Cornell experts in farm business planning.
Continental breakfast + locally sourced lunch provided at in-person sessions.
Urban and Community Webinar Series
Host: UC IPM Program
This monthly webinar series focuses on pest identification, prevention and management around the home, garden and landscape. Dates and topics below, all begin at noon Pacific.
- October 16: Tree and Shrub Pests
- November 20: Autumnal Antagonists: Pests during Fall
Seeds of change: Assisting gene flow for climate adaptation Coffee Talk
Join authors Eve Beaury (New York Botanical Garden), Matt Brincka (New York State Parks), Grace Gutierrez (University of Massachusetts Amherst), and Bethany Bradley (University of Massachusetts Amherst) to learn more about the newly published NE RISCC Research to Practice Paper "Seeds of change: Assisting gene flow for climate adaptation". Following a presentation on the conceptual background and a case study, we’ll answer questions and host a facilitated discussion with event participants. Anyone interested in climate adaptation and seed sourcing strategies is welcome to join this free event. This event is co-hosted by the Northeast Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change Management Network (NE RISCC) and the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (NE CASC).
Date: September 25, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM in EST
New York State School Environmental Health Conference 2025
Join us for a full day of learning and networking as we address indoor air quality topics and concerns for schools in New York State. Whether you are school facilities staff, a teacher, administrator, or health professional, this conference is perfect for anyone passionate about school environmental health.
Get ready to engage with expert speakers and connect with others who share your commitment to student and staff well-being. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and resources to enhance the health and resilience of your school community. Learn about the different factors that influence indoor air quality, see how schools across the state have improved their indoor air, and so much more!
Thursday, November 6 · 7:45am - 4pm EST
Best Western Plus Kingston Hotel and Conference Center
503 Washington Avenue Kingston, NY 12401
The Cut Flower Program Work Team has a monthly webinar series with some IPM content. Information is at https://cals.cornell.edu/cornell-cooperative-extension/work-teams/cut-flower-industry/events
- October 15: Planning Your Cut Flower Operation for Next Season
- November 19: Starting Cut Flowers
- December 17: Cut Flower Workshops and Events (Fresh and Dried)
Previous webinars can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/@ccecutflower/videos
Join us for a guided nature walk at the stunning Salmon River Falls Unique Area in Richland, NY!
- Location:185 Falls Road, Richland, NY,
- Date: Friday, September 26th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
We’ll gather in the parking area before heading out on the Upper Falls Trail, a scenic one-mile path along the north side of the river to Dam Road. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the gorge and the iconic 100-foot waterfall.
2025 Invasive Insect Certification Program from UMass Extension
Registration for UMass Extension's Invasive Insect Certification Program is now open.
This six-day webinar series looks at the characteristics of invasive insects, the impacts and costs they have regionally and nationwide, and highlights the biology, ecology, and identification of some of the most disruptive insects. Pesticide and association credits are available. Attendees may choose to attend all 6 webinars to receive certification or mix and match based on their interests and needs. Register by September 19th to attend all six days on Sept. 24, 25, Oct. 8, 9, 22 & 23rd.
Review a detailed agenda to learn more here: https://www.umass.edu/agriculture-food-environment/landscape/events/2025-invasive-insect-certification-program.
Biocontrol Blitz: Fundamentals for Using Good Bugs in the Greenhouse
UNH and UVM collaborating
In Person! Hands-on!
Six New England Pesticide Applicator recertification credits will be awarded.
Using biocontrols in the greenhouse to help manage common pests of ornamental plants can reduce sprays and increase salability, but it can be challenging to know where to start. Some of us may have dabbled in using biocontrols and were unsatisfied with the results. At this day-long, hands-on workshop, not only will we learn how to use, plan and select biocontrols, but we will leave with a game plan for Spring 2026 that includes numbers, organisms and methods to start (or restart!) your biocontrol program.
October 9, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
DS Cole Growers
251 N. Village Road, Loudon
Cost: $80 per person
Lunch is provided
Learn more, full schedule and registration link: https://extension.unh.edu/event/2025/10/biocontrol-blitz-fundamentals-using-good-bugs-greenhouse
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
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
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.
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
Program Associate, part-time (24 hours/week)
The Cayuga Lake Watershed Network (the Network) seeks a Program Associate to
join our small but mighty team and support our mission of protecting Cayuga Lake and its
watershed. Founded in 1998, the Network advocates for the health of Cayuga Lake and its
watershed in a changing world by building a network of individuals, institutions, and
communities united in the protection of our region’s water resources. We do this through
community engagement, developing researched positions on issues of concern, and
collaborative watershed stewardship activities.
Highlights
-Pay: $25–$29.50/hour (total compensation, includes customizable benefits)
-Based at our Cayuga Nature Center office (some flexibility)
-Great fit for someone passionate about environmental stewardship, community, and collaboration
-Apply today! Open until filled
Postdoctoral Fellow in invasion ecology and biogeography
The New York Botanical Garden is hiring a postdoctoral fellow to work on an NSF-funded project led by Curator Evelyn Beaury. The project focuses on mapping the geography of U.S. plant trade as a driver of biological invasions, using a large dataset of historical and contemporary trade records (https://doi.org/10.1002/ecy.4106) to examine how plant introductions influence species distributions, invasion dynamics, and socioeconomic trade-offs. The research will investigate 1) how spatial and temporal patterns of trade over the past 200 years explains contemporary hotspots of plant invasion, 2) how introduction history informs our fundamental understanding of niche and range dynamics, and 3) how the socioeconomic and cultural benefits of plants in trade compare to the risk of new invasions. Funding includes all research expenses and participation at domestic and international conferences.
Previously featured
Cornell University, Entomology/CALS
The Department of Entomology at Cornell University is seeking applications for a 9-month, full-time, tenure-track position in the area of Field Crops Entomology. The successful candidate will develop an internationally recognized research and extension program focused on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of grain and forage crops, including corn (>1 million acres in New York State), alfalfa hay (500,000 acres), soybeans (350,000 acres), wheat (150,000 acres), other small grains, and hemp. We seek a highly collaborative scientist who will build trust and communicate effectively with field crop farmers and other stakeholders and will interact extensively with colleagues at Cornell to achieve its Land Grant mission. In this position, research will focus on novel practices that use biological, chemical, physical, and/or cultural control methods to manage important insect pests affecting field crop growers. Research should combine insights from field trials with other approaches, potentially ranging from lab-based analyses to modeling to landscape-scale observational studies, to devise pest management strategies that enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. Extension will focus on developing an impactful program that addresses the needs of industry stakeholders and promotes the adoption of sustainable practices that will reduce pest risks and improve the profitability and long-term sustainability of field crops in New York State. The candidate is expected to work closely with industry and state partners (i.e. NY Corn and Soybean Grower Association, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets) to understand and prioritize stakeholder needs.
Open Rank Senior (Asst., Associate, or Full Professor) Invasive Species Economist
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) and the College of Science (COS) at Virginia Tech are inviting applications for a 9-month (academic year) research and teaching position at the (Senior) Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor level in applied economics with a focus on invasive and other harmful species. This broadly encompasses any species that pose threats to terrestrial and / or aquatic ecosystems, impact markets, economic decision-making and outcomes. The academic home for this position will be either the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics (in CALS), or the Department of Economics (in COS). The position also carries expectations for funding summer activities through external grants, teaching, or other mechanisms. The successful candidate will have proficiency in theoretical, analytical, and quantitative tools and methods to tackle complex problems as part of a campus-wide invasive species cluster hire. This position requires occasional travel to attend conferences and meetings.
Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences
University of Maryland Extension (UME) seeks candidates for a 12-month tenure-track Extension Educator in the Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) program. FCS program promotes healthy and economically prosperous Maryland residents at every stage of life through education, research, and outreach programs. The Extension Educator will design, teach, implement, and evaluate interdisciplinary educational programs using research-based information for youth and adult audiences. FCS Programs will focus on improving the health and economic prosperity of residents and communities in Maryland. Specifically, this position will provide leadership and delivery of educational programming related to financial wellness, public housing affordability and eviction prevention and other areas of FCS. The FCS program includes consumer financial education, financial wellness, health literacy, mental health, and other relevant topics. This position will also create and facilitate community partnerships with local and state agencies, nonprofit organizations, school systems, businesses, and others that support extension programs and policy, as well as systems and environmental approaches. The position will conduct applied research and publish results that support the educational program. In carrying out these duties, the educator is responsible to the FCS Program Leader for programmatic leadership. For administrative matters, the individual is responsible to their respective Area or County Extension Director. The Extension Educator will be a faculty member on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with University policy and UME tenure guidelines within a defined timeframe.
Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences
University of Maryland Extension (UME) seeks candidates for a 12-month tenure-track Extension Educator in the Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) program. The FCS program promotes healthy and economically prosperous Maryland residents at every stage of life through education, research, and outreach programs. The Extension Educator will design, teach, implement, and evaluate interdisciplinary educational programs using research-based information for youth and adult audiences. FCS Programs will focus on improving the health and economic prosperity of residents and communities in Maryland. Specifically, this position will provide leadership and delivery of educational programming related to nutrition education, chronic disease prevention and management, and other areas of FCS. The FCS program includes physical activity, healthy food preparation, consumer food safety and preservation, financial wellness, health literacy, mental health, and other relevant topics. This position will also create and facilitate community partnerships with local and state agencies, nonprofit organizations, school systems, healthcare providers, businesses, and other entities that support extension programs and policies, as well as systems and environmental approaches. The position will conduct applied research and publish results that support the educational program. In carrying out these duties, the educator is responsible to the FCS Program Leader for programmatic leadership. For administrative matters, the individual is responsible to their respective Area or County Extension Director. The Extension Educator will be a faculty member on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with University policy and UME tenure guidelines within a defined timeframe.
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
University of Maryland Extension (UME) is seeking an Extension Educator responsible for organizing, developing, implementing and evaluating educational programs for youth, families and communities. The Educator would work with volunteers and youth development agencies to provide experiential learning opportunities for youth, leading to the development of life skills for youth. The educator is also responsible for developing an active, ongoing recruitment campaign to involve new volunteers and youth. As a tenure-track faculty member, the Educator will be responsible for providing leadership to develop focused youth development programs in cooperation with colleagues across the county and Lower Shore Maryland cluster. The faculty member will be on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with University policy and UME tenure guidelines within a timeframe defined.
Administrative Assistant - Owego, NY
This position will serve as the Administrative Assistant for the Workforce Program at Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Tioga County and, under the oversight of the Association Youth Workforce Development Educator, will provide administrative support, confidential data entry, communications, document control, coordinating client appointments, and voucher submissions. Under the direction of the Executive Director, this position will organize and maintain all office files, order and maintain office supplies, answer the phone, take messages and greet the public.
WNY PRISM is currently seeking a new Terrestrial Invasive Species Program Manager to join our team!
The Terrestrial Invasive Species Program Manager (Program Manager) will be responsible for the coordination and further development of WNY PRISM’s terrestrial and early detection species management efforts, which involves a broad, and challenging scope of work. Primary responsibilities will include coordination of field operations such as invasive species surveys, site assessments, removal and habitat restoration, ensuring project data is both complete and accurate, coordinating regional collaborative efforts, and communicating WNY PRISM information through meetings, workshops and additional outreach activities. Core programs include WNY PRISM’s Crew Assistance Program, where WNY PRISM assists partners with various management activities, and WNY PRISM’s Early Detection and Response Program, which has WNY PRISM leading regional efforts to survey, monitor and remove priority early detection species. The Program Manager will produce program reports, manage and analyze data, manage stewardship equipment and inventory, and ensure all necessary permits, permissions and insurance documents are in place for stewardship activities. The Program Manager will also hire, train and supervise a Field Crew Leader and the WNY PRISM Crew.
For more information, to view the full job description, and to apply, please visit: https://www.wnyprism.org/about/job-opportunities/.
This is a full-time position located in Buffalo, NY. The deadline for applications is Friday, September 26, 2025. Please follow all applications instructions, failure to do so may disqualify you from the position.
Questions about this position may be directed to Andrea Locke, WNY PRISM Coordinator, lockeas@buffalostate.edu. No phone calls, please.
Invasive Plant Species and Ecosystem Restoration Specialist
Organization: Swamp Yankee Earthcare
Location: Currently based in Westbrook, work to performed throughout Connecticut
Position Type: Part time, up to 40 hours a week (contract dependent)
Position Overview:
We are seeking a motivated and skilled individual to join our team as an Invasive Plant Species and Ecosystem Restoration Specialist. This position plays a crucial role in our efforts to restore native habitats by managing invasive plant species without the use of pesticides. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in invasive species management, native plant species, and/or natural resource management, coupled with a passion for conservation and ecological restoration.
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.
Funding Opportunities
Agriculture and Food Research Initiative - Foundational and Applied Science Program
The AFRI Foundational and Applied Science Program supports grants in six AFRI priority areas to advance knowledge in both fundamental and applied sciences important to agriculture.
The six priority areas are:
- Plant Health and Production and Plant Products
- Animal Health and Production and Animal Products
- Food Safety, Nutrition, and Health
- Bioenergy, Natural Resources, and Environment
- Agriculture Systems and Technology
- Agriculture Economics and Rural Communities.
Research-only, extension-only, and integrated research, education and/or extension projects are solicited in this Request for Applications (RFA). See Foundational and Applied Science RFA for specific details.
Estimated Total Program Funding
$300,000,000