| Illinois State-Based Integrated Pest Management Program | 1033266 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43558 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The current University of Illinois state-based Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program team provides a robust diversity of disciplines with an agricultural entomologist (Ms. Estes), plant pathologists (Dr. Mahecha and Ms. Plewa), Extension animal specialist (Ms. Steckler), medical entomologist (Dr. Stone), and vector ecologist (Dr. Tuten). The team is supported by a number of other professionals, including a nematologist (Dr. Colgrove), other agricultural and specialty crop entomologists (Drs. Athey, Sieter, and Spencer), and an Extension Educator with a focus on urban pollinators (Mr. Pankau). The IPM program routinely works with weed science professors, fruit and vegetable pathology professor, the University of Illinois Pesticide Safety Education Team, and other faculty and specialists. The proposed programs focus on a wide variety of situations including agronomic and specialty field crop production, animal production, horticulture and ornamental plant production, and private and public spaces. The programs address plant production, food security, pollinator protection, and animal and human health concerns. These programs have been developed based on stakeholder needs along with addressing NCERA-222 objectives and North Central IPM Center priorities and signature programs (https://www.ncipmc.org/about/stakeholder-priorities/).Illinois is a major producer of corn and soybeans, producing 2.28 billion bushels of corn and 649 million bushels of soybeans in 2023 with a production value of over $11 billion and $8.6 billion respectively. Illinois produced 67.9 million bushels of winter wheat in 2023, an increase of 53% compared to the previous year. This represents a value of $406 million to the state. The programs proposed under the agronomic and specialty crop component include state-wide monitoring for agronomically important pests; scouting and threshold determination field demonstrations; and wheat disease and toxin testing. The insect scouting programs will report results during the season to provide updated insect pest pressures, and all of these programs will produce summary factsheets or reports and will be included in Extension presentations.Two state-wide pollinator programs, including the Illinois Pollinator Website, were developed with support from previous grants from this program. Since the website launched in May 2023 over 6,000 individual users have viewed pages over 40,000 times with users from 49 countries. Prior to its full launch in May of 2023, the website was submitted to all Illinois Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists and feedback was collected via survey instrument. It was also sent to a large list of partner organizations, university experts, and industry contacts for a peer review. In response to feedback, are adding 150 new plants species and 60 new pollinator species along with information on long-term management of pollinator gardens and a section devoted to the Endangered Species Act and Threatened and Endangered pollinator species in Illinois. To increase the accessibility of the Illinois Pollinators website, new features will be added to export individual plant and insect pages into PDF formats with additional accessibility features including formatting for screen readers. The PDFs will serve as stand-alone documents featuring individual insects or plants from the website. In addition, we will provide Spanish language translation of additional web content including all existing habitat designs, and marketing and outreach materials for the Illinois Pollinators website into Spanish which will be provided to all Extension offices across Illinois.The University of Illinois Plant Clinic serves as the National Plant Diagnostic Network laboratory for Illinois housed in the North Central Region and provides thousands of unbiased diagnoses and management recommendations each year that are based on sound IPM practices to reduce both risk to human health and the environment. Through both diagnostics and outreach (including workshops, seminars, lectures tours, electronic outreach, demonstrations, social media, newsletters, factsheets, and refereed publications) the Plant Clinic addresses pest concerns, including invasive species, in production agriculture, and conservation and residential areas. The Plant Clinic will continue to offer diagnoses and IPM recommendations to individual growers and clients, and test Illinois soil samples to determine the distribution of root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne sp.), reniform nematodes (Rotylenchulus sp.), and other plant parasitic nematodes in Illinois soybean fields.A number of ticks of public and veterinary health importance have been expanding their geographic ranges in recent decades largely due to climate change, changes in land use, and increases in reservoir host populations and tick populations. As a result of these population increases, range expansions, and increased proximity between ticks and reservoir hosts, the prevalence of pathogen-infected ticks has increased. Ticks can transmit a wide variety of pathogens. Even uninfected tick bites can cause substantial blood loss (leading to decreased production in livestock), allergies, severe toxic reactions and even death due to tick paralysis. This ultimately presents new and increasing severe health threats to humans, livestock, and companion animals. The proposed projects will impact private landowners, farm workers, and natural resource professionals, along with livestock and companion animals, by providing training to increase knowledge about tick life cycles and hosts, habitats and presence/location in Illinois, tickborne diseases, tick bite prevention, proper tick removal, and passive tick collection (collectively referred to as tick knowledge hereafter). These projects focus on human and animal health which affect companion, wild, and livestock animals. Tick knowledge materials will be developed and taught to Illinois Extension Master Gardeners (MG) and Master Naturalists (MN) volunteers and 4-H educators using a train-the-trainer framework to increase tick knowledge of Illinois citizens. Tick knowledge programs will be presented as part of Extension programs. Visual aids, demonstrations, and handouts will be provided at annual meetings held in Illinois and tick knowledge programs will be presented as part of Extension programs. To help monitor range expansions of tick species and for the possible presence of the Asian Longhorn Tick in Illinois, a current passive surveillance program will be expanded on. Illinois citizens will be recruited to report tick bites and submit ticks. Extension's statewide network of offices and staff will promote the program and provide tick educational materials and information about tick submission. Participating licensed wildlife rehabilitation facilities, animal shelters, and veterinarians will be provided materials necessary for tick collection. Submitted samples will be shipped to the Illinois Natural History Survey Medical Entomology Lab (INHS-MEL) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. Ticks will then be identified to species using standard taxonomic keys, enumerated by life stage, and archived in the biorepository at INHS-MEL. |
| IPM Programs for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands | 1033188 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43683 | 2024 | AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICE | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This project will continue enhancing collaboration between Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands to address the needs of smallholder farmers. In the Islands, crop production is affected by extreme weather events and pest outbreaks.Farmers are subject to the volatility of weather conditions affecting their farms and threatening food production and availability.In our Islands the entry of exotic pests is devastating our crops and threatening food security. Local vegetable,root crops and plantain and banana production does not meet local demand due to pests and lack of effective pest management practices. New emerging invasive pests, Thrips parvispinus, and Amrasca biguttula detected recently in PR & USVI, pose a threat to ornamental and vegetable crops. Most farmers don't know about this pests and how theywill affect their crops. Disadvantaged plantain and banana farmers expressed their concerns in meetings with Extension personnel about scarce labor force, increased costs on chemicals and protection measures to maintain plant health in Black sigatoka, an emerging disease affecting production. Inside high tunnel vegetable production farmers experience high pest pressure, and temperatures that surpassed most maximum crop development ranges. In Puerto Rico there is scarce data on microclimatic conditions on High Tunnels and around 65% of the structures are not in use due to production problems and the absence of an IPM plan to manage pests.The IPM team in PR & UVI will make use of surveys, trainings, workshops, field days and farm demonstrations to transfer pest management information to growers/farmers. This information will be available on a website to inform them of current pests' status. An educational video will show high tunnel producers the correct design and construction with the goal of minimizing conditions that promote pests and diseases. The main aspects that will be covered in trainings and workshops are: identification of key pests, pest monitoring/scouting, available management practices, importance of soil and tissue analysis, pesticide calibration, rotation and safety during applications, protection of pollinators and natural enemies and farm biosecurity. Other planned activities include presentations at producer meetings and promotion of communication through updating of the IPM webpage.Extension training for new farmers, outreach programs, materials development (Extension bulletins, pocket guides, posters and presentations) and delivery, along with regularly scheduled visitation aim to help increase adoption of IPM practices for vegetables (conventional and in high tunnels), plantain and banana and tanier. Quarterly visitations to farms will be scheduled to see current practices and discuss adoption phase of new practices; document commitments to implementation and create the draft of the "4-D Farming" Extension Bulletin. Once participants are chosen, we will begin evaluation of impact across 5 areas for each farmer.The use of pre and posttests will help us evaluate the impact of the educational activities. |
| Ohio Extension Implementation Program 2024-27 | 1033182 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43574 | 2024 | OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY, THE | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The Ohio Extension Implementation Program for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) will be led by Dr. Logan Minter (Ohio IPM coordinator), as appointed by Extension Director, David Civittolo (Administrative contact). This project encourages innovative collaboration between Departments of Extension, Entomology, Horticulture and Crop Science, Plant Pathology, and History at the Ohio State University and Central State University Extension to meet diverse stakeholder needs. We have assembled a balanced, priority-based program to provide a mix of traditional educational activities (conferences, workshops, field days) combined with technology (3-D printed models, websites, webinars, and instructional videos) to amplify impacts.We will conduct programs in Agronomic and/or Specialty Crops, with the goal of IPM implementation and adoption in field crops, mixed produce production by urban and plain community growers, and emerging specialty crops (paw paw and culinary mushrooms), while increasing awareness and monitoring fore invasive, traditional, and emerging pests. Public Health will deliver IPM training related to identification and management of bed bugs in inhabited structures as well as mosquitoes and ticks in urban and recreational spaces throughout the state. Our Pollinator Health focus will develop educational resources surrounding trees beneficial for pollinators and phenology forecasting for pests. The Pest Diagnostic Facilities are cornerstone to IPM by identifying pests and offering recommendations to a variety of stakeholders. Project coordination and evaluation will support all priorities to measure knowledge gain, practice adoption, and progress toward ultimate goals of increased plant protection, food security, and sustainability through environmentally, economically, and socially responsible pest management practices. |
| Integrated Pest Management for New York State, 2024-2027 | 1033151 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43573 | 2024 | CORNELL UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Pollinator Health (5%) efforts focus on portable displays, online courses, and webinars for Integrated Pest Management and pollinator protection. Education for Pesticide Applicators (18%) includes developing online recertification courses and updating training manuals, while IPM in Public Health (7%) seeks to expand the "Don't Get Ticked, New York" campaign. Each priority is allocated a specific percentage of resources for comprehensive implementation. |
| Mississippi State University Extension IPM Implementation Program, 2024-2027 | 1033115 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43496 | 2024 | MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Agronomic (cotton, corn, soybean, grain sorghum, peanuts, wheat, and rice) and specialty crops (greenhouse- and nursery-grown ornamentals and fruits, pecans, and vegetables grown in the field or/or under protection) are commercially produced in Mississippi. Fruits, pecans, and vegetables are also grown in home gardens and yards. Established, invasive, and emerging diseases, insects, and weeds threaten production of commercial and home garden crops each year. In addition, insects, such as fire ants and termites, that occur in Mississippi affect the lives, homes, landscapes, and communities ofMississippi's citizens. Mississippi State University specialists maintain comprehensive, multidisciplinary Extension integratedpest management (IPM) education programs in agronomic crops, communities,and specialty crops as well asplant disease diagnostic facilities for agricultural and horticultural crops; they work to monitor pestoutbreaks and epidemics, evaluate and/or develop new pest management methods, and educate stakeholders on pests and effectiveIPM practices while striving to promote, implement, and demonstrate the value of IPM to stakeholders so stakeholderscan effectively manage pests in ways that are safe, effective, affordable, and environmentally sound.The goal of the "Mississippi State University Extension IPM Implementation Program, 2024-2027" project is to disseminate IPMinformation and increase stakeholder knowledge and IPM implementation to help Mississippi's stakeholders effectively managepests, including insects, plant pathogens/diseases, and weeds, that affect their lives, property, or produced crops/commoditiesin a manner that minimizes 1) yield or property losses, adverse impacts to human/animal health, and other adverse pest-inducedeffects, 2) pest management costs, and 3) adverse impacts of IPM strategies, including pesticide use, to humans, nontargetorganisms, and the environment in agronomic crops, communities, and specialty crops,with the support ofpest diagnostic facilities. Project collaborators with expertise in entomology, plant pathology, and weed science, or specific crops will 1) provide technical assistance and troubleshooting to stakeholders; 2) develop new and maintain/update existing traditional and modern educational IPM resources for pests, key crops, and/or production sitesthroughmultiple delivery methods; 3) develop and deliver educational programs to stakeholders; and 4) conduct surveys, trials, anddemonstrations to identify and assess target pests and their populations/occurrences in MS and test/demonstrate test/demonstrateexperimental/recommended IPM strategies. Specific activities that will be used to provide technical assistance andtroubleshooting to stakeholders include diagnostics by specialists and/or diagnostic facilities, in-person or phone/electronic communication with stakeholders, and site visits. Educational resources developed as part of this project will include traditional (in print)and virtual/online content, including Extension publications, computer-generated presentations, videos,blogs,popular press articles, field days, workshops, and short courses, based on knowledge gained from field surveys, trials, and demonstrations, published scientific literature, and attendance of scientific meetings where research is shared and discussed. |
| Addressing Stakeholder Needs for IPM Programming in NC | 1033077 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43553 | 2024 | NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This is an Extension Implementation Program (EIP) proposal. Our mission is to provide science based IPMinformation to all residents in North Carolina (NC) to increase productivity and economic competitiveness inagricultural and urban landscape settings while reducing the environmental impacts of pest managementstrategies, especially pesticide application. Our overall program goal is to improve the dissemination of IPMknowledge and increase adoption of IPM practices through development, implementation, and evaluation of IPMprograms consistent with stakeholder-identified priorities in the following NIFA-Crop Protection and PestManagement (CPPM) - EIP priority areas: IPM Implementation in Agronomic Crops/Specialty Crops (38%),Communities (28%), Pollinator Health (17%), and Pesticide Applicators (14%). We plan to meet these goalsthrough the following objectives: 1) Improve IPM program accessibility; 2) Develop and promote IPM adoptionincentives; and 3) Increase implementation of pollinator protection strategies. Dr. Danesha Seth Carley is theprimary investigator (PI), program administrative contact, and the IPM coordinator for NC. |
| Connecting Pest Management Resources and Technology to Delaware Stakeholders | 1033067 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43571 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The Delaware Extension Implementation Project coordinates extension activity and outputs in agronomic and specialty crops and communities, seeks to enhance pollinator health in the state, and provide IPM education for pesticide applicators. Although it is the second smallest state, agriculture is immensely important to the states economy and contributes $8 billion to the economy. Delaware agriculture is extremely diverse, consisting of 410,000 planted acres of field crops, special use field crops, forage, and specialty crops, greenhouse and high tunnels, urban farms, and a 7,000 honey bee colony industry. The landscaping and green industry is also a major contributor to the Delaware economy. University of Delaware and Delaware State University extension faculty and staff will provide information delivery, assist stakeholders with decision making, provide pest surveillance and timely alerts, and encourage conservation, sustainability, and safe pest management practices to further the sustainability of the Delaware landscape and agricultural sectors. Through this project we will demonstrate alternative management techniques and practices for agricultural pests, identify changes in pest complexes and monitor pest response to crop management practices, develop new and engaging educational resources, assist stakeholders with pest identification, anticipation, and planning, provide pest identification and pesticide handling training for applicators, and enhance pollinator health and habitat through education and research. IPM knowledge transfer is achieved through one-on-ne meetings, farm visits, county and statewide meetings, digital and print media. In addition, field days, weekly newsletters, and digital delivery mechanisms will be pursued. |
| IPM Implementation for agronomic crops, housing, schools, pesticide applicators, specialty crops, and pollinators in Tennessee | 1033065 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43505 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Our goal is to provide stakeholders with the knowledge to make IPM recommendations and decisions that are effective, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable. The proposed activities are primarily designed to disseminate knowledge and improve adoption of IPM practices in agronomic and specialty crops, residential housing units,schools and in pollinator health. Specific objectives address developing online resources, intensive training of agricultural county agents, the monitoring and management of invasive and pesticide resistant pests,training for IPM decision makers in public or low-income housing facilities and in schools, and providing demonstrations and training on pollinators habaitats and honey bee health information. Our objectives support the CPPM goals of improving cost-benefit ratios, reducing health risks, and minimizing adverse environmental effects caused by pests and IPM management practices. |
| CPPM, EIP Project for the University of Florida: Entomology and Nematology, Plant Pathology and Weed Science | 1033062 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43670 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This EIP proposal has three coordinated subprojects. The first, "Integrating pest management and biodiversity conservation in horticultural systems"is designed to develop and deliver Cooperative Extension programs and products focused on the integration of pest management and biodiversity conservation that drive knowledge gain, behavior change, and economic and environmental gains. Ultimately, the aim is to develop a self-sustaining Extension program that provides life-long learning for a broad audience of practitioners and consumers. The second subproject, Securing Florida's agricultural future with artificial intelligence-driven integrated pest management (AIS-IPM)", will enhance integrated pest management strategies across Florida's agricultural sector by leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and real-time data visualization. Because Florida has unique peninsular geography and is a leading producer of diverse crops with substantial economic impacts, it faces substantial challenges in plant disease management. The objectives include establishing a comprehensive Power BI-based data system, identifying statewide IPM needs, monitoring factors that disrupt IPM strategies, and offering disease management advice. Finally, "Survey and management of established and invading grass weeds in perennial forage and turfgrass systems" will provide a means for Extension specialists and clientele to be able to identify established, difficult to control grass weeds as well as those that are invading particular areas of the state. The proposed demonstration plots and trainings will provide knowledge gain for county Extension and USDA-NRCS personnel on weed identification and management. These in-person trainings will be used to develop online modules to on-board new Extension personnel, thereby decreasing the frequency of training required by state Extension Specialists. This will ultimately provide a more comprehensive body of knowledge that will enable land managers in both turfgrass and forage systems to be more productive and provide rights-of-way managers a means to provide safer environments for transportation and utility infrastructure. |
| Connecticut Extension Implementation Program, 2024-2027 | 1033059 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43570 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The University of Connecticut Integrated Pest Management (UConn IPM) Program is a collaborative effort in the Departments of Extension and Plant Science & Landscape Architecture that employs sustainable, science-based approaches for the management of plant pests and diseases by recommending methods that are effective, economically sound, and ecologically compatible. UConn IPM faculty members provide training and educational outreach on the topics of plant diseases and pests/plant health, tree and small fruit crops, controlled environment agriculture (including greenhouse and nursery crops), vegetable crops, turfgrass and landscapes, municipalities/schools/public green spaces, community and urban agriculture, pesticide application, pollinator health, and invasive species.Fulfillment of the proposed activities of this project will result in increased awareness anduse of IPM strategies by Connecticut residents. These IPM strategies will result in reduced environmental risk, reduced human health risk, andimprovedpractices for growers and gardeners to save time, energy, and money as they work with plants. |
| Vermont IPM Extension Implementation Program (VT EIP): 2024-2027 | 1033057 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43502 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & STATE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Agriculture is essential to Vermont's economy, generating an estimated $11.3 billion annually. Over the past two decades, Vermont's agriculture has become more diverse. Currently 75% of farms produce crops other than the agronomic crops supporting the dairy industry. New and existing farms have expanded production of fruit crops, ornamentals, high tunnel vegetables, soybeans, and organic grains, all key to maintaining Vermont's agriculture and a healthy working landscape.With the changes in Vermont's agriculture sector (increased numbers of dairy cows and increased diversified acreage), we are seeing new pests requiring integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Emerging arthropod pests, invasive weeds, and diseases require IPM tactics to minimize crop loss and the unnecessary use of pesticides. Current IPM strategies for established pests must also be adapted to changing climatic conditions like warmer temperatures, longer growing seasons, significant rain events, and droughts now common in the state. The changes in Vermont's agriculture sector also includes beginning farmers who don't often come from farm backgrounds and are eager for information. This new audience needs to build confidence in pest and disease identification and learn how to successfully incorporate IPM tools into their operations.The VT EIP team has expertise aligned with the IPM needs of the diverse crops and audiences in the state and includes the Priority Areas of IPM Implementation in: Agronomic Crops, Specialty Crops (Tree Fruit/Grapes, Greenhouse/High Tunnel), Animal Agriculture, and Communities; IPM for Pesticide Applicators; and IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities. The UVM Extension Plant Diagnostic Clinic supports all VT EIP programs by providing timely and accurate pest identification as the critical first step of IPM. The UVM Extension Community Horticulture Program (Master Gardener) serves as a hub for all VT EIP program consumer-targeted IPM information outreach.VT EIP strives to advance the goals of the National IPM Roadmap, USDA Strategic Plan, Northeastern IPM Center priorities and address CPPM program focus areas by introducing IPM awareness and strategies to increase knowledge and adoption among both new and established stakeholders in addition to fostering established networks to introduce new IPM tactics, emerging high consequence pests and climate change. VT EIP recognizes the impacts on IPM programs and stakeholders due to decreasing numbers of relevant faculty and technical positions throughout the Northeast and the need to foster next generation IPM scientists and educators. A key component of VT EIP will foster next generation IPM scientists and educators. |
| Enhancing Implementation of Integrated Pest Management for Sustainable Agriculture | 1033052 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43506 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Rhode Island has many potential pest problems - including both well established and new exotic invasive species. Our goal is to reduce the impact of these species through improved IPM practices in Rhode Island and regionally. We plan to address critical needs of growers of specialty crops (fruits and nursery), land managers, and citizens throughout the state by assessing.potential pest problems and recommending, implementing, and evaluating pest management practices. Our primary programming objective is Community IPM and the secondary priority is IPM Implementation for Specialty Crops - fruits, vegetables and nursery crops. Our Secondary Emphasis Areas include: 1) IPM Support for Pollinator Health -providingRI stakeholders with current information on the best pollinator-friendly pest management practicesand 2)IPM support for Pest Diagnostics Facilities -managing and operating a Plant Diagnostic Laboratoryfor diagnosing pest problems and making recommendations for pest management. |
| Extension Implementation Program for IPM at West Virginia University | 1033048 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43501 | 2024 | WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The Extension Implementation Program (EIP) for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) at West Virginia University (WVU) is carried out by a dedicated IPM Team representing of major disciplines in Crop Protection including an evaluation specialist working closely with end-users, producers, and other stakeholders. The program is well supported by county faculty of WVU Extension Service, the administration and the communication staff. We have continued to develop robust IPM programs in Tree Fruit, Vegetables (field-grown), Greenhouse, and High Tunnel production systems. We have witnessed a growth in IPM related to High Tunnel production systems during the past cycles. The National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) and the EIP programs at WVU work closely with each other to engage an IPM Associate funded jointly by the two programs. |
| Implementation of IPM in New Jersey | 1033046 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43509 | 2024 | RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This proposal addresses IPM needs in Specialty Crops, Communities including Housing and Schools, Animal Agriculture, Pollinator Health, Pest Diagnostic Facilities, and Public Health. The Specialty Crops goals are to conduct basic IPM presentations to ornamental growers at a variety of statewide meetings, survey these growers about their current pest management practices, provide hands-on IPM training to these growers, and conduct follow-up visits with these growers receiving hands training to monitor their on-going adoption of IPM. The Animal Agriculture goals are to identify the presence of Theileria orientalis in livestock, enhance awareness among NJ livestock producers about tick-borne diseases in cattle, and increase engagement of stakeholders in the surveillance and management of T. orientalis. The IPM in Communities goals are to investigate current pest control practices impacts on pest infestations, deliver training to low-income housing staff to increase the adoption of IPM, and compare the effectiveness of two resident education strategies in low-income communities. The Pollinator Health goals are to develop a non-destructive method for assessing bee queen health and enhanced decision-making for beekeepers in selecting healthy queens for breeding. The Pest Diagnostic Facilities goals are to provide diagnostic services to the public, state and federal agencies, commercial/agricultural stakeholders, and university researchers. The Public Health goals are to increase knowledge regarding tick surveillance and control, establish a statewide database tracking tick distributions and incidences of tick-transmitted pathogens, enhance community engagement through citizen science participation, and develop innovative control approaches for tick and mosquito populations. |
| University of New Hampshire Integrated Pest Management Extension Implementation Plan | 1033037 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43535 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF NEW HAMPSHIRE | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | New Hampshire's 2024-27 IPM Extension Implementation plan outlines the top learning objectives we have identified, with help from our stakeholders, in implementation of IPM tools & tactics in Agronomic Crops (5%), Communities (5%), Public Health (5%), Specialty Crops (55%), and Support for Diagnostic Services (5%). Learning objectives in each program priority include basic biology and monitoring strategies for new and emerging pests, IPM program adaptations to climate shifts, principles of resistance management for problematic key pest species, and increased education on public health pests, like ticks. We seek to pair in-person learning opportunities with digital content, in order to expand our reach to underserved audiences. We propose several milestone measurements to track behavior changes in our client audiences over the course of the project, including disease management for small grains, using new rotational materials for pests with reported chemical resistance, accessing web-based weather monitoring tools for predicting disease and insect risk, and adapting IPM programs to extreme weather events. A small portion of our effort will also include some on-farm IPM demonstrations and multiple outreach components, which will serve both to display efficacy of IPM tools and tactics, generate new information to clientele, and increase adoption of IPM strategies. We will also be using texting as a new communication tool with our specialty crop producers. This proposal also outlines our collaborations with other land-grant universities, partner agencies, and the state of New Hampshire to successfully provide IPM outreach and direct technical assistance to agriculture producers and the community of New Hampshire, as well as areas where our team members seek professional development.There are an estimated 1.3 million people living in New Hampshire and roughly 1 million of those residents live in areas considered by the USDA to be rural. New Hampshire farmers are stewards to 474,000 acres of land and the agricultural industry provides products and services to local, state, national and international markets, worth about $1.5 billion annually. Agriculture is a major influence on the state's quality of life and character and our agriculture is based on small, diversified farms, which rely heavily on retail marketing and agritourism. We rank top in the nation in terms of the percentage of farms reporting direct-to-consumer sales and there is a strong personal connection between agricultural producers and their customers. We therefore devote a majority of our IPM educational efforts to meet the unique needs of NH's agricultural communities, however all residents of NH will benefit from IPM's protection of land and water, as well as direct reduction of risk where they live, learn, work and play.We teach all audiences to take a more comprehensive approach to pest problems, combining preventative measures, monitoring, and various controls. We try to reach all producers in our IPM efforts regardless of scale, marketing channels, or production orientation, including large, small/part-time, organic, wholesale, and retail producers. Commercial growers constitute our prime audience, but we also serve backyard gardeners, homestead farmers, as well as municipal recreation and school programs.Our 2024-27 IPM Implementation plan outlines the top educational objectives we have identified, based on input from grower associations, priorities identified by expert panels & working groups in the region, as well as our one-on-one interactions with our clients. Our project objectives are ultimately guided by principles outlined in the national IPM Road Map. We will bring our clients the latest in IPM tools & tactics, while developing the next generation of IPM scientists, to:Increase IPM adoption by clientsImprove IPM practices by working with clients to better integrate into NH systemsImprove economical practices through IPM adoptionMinimize human health & safety risks from pests and pest management strategiesMinimize adverse environmental effects from pests and pest management strategiesThe past three years have been a time of great transition within our organization. The majority of our long-standing IPM team members have retired, taking decades of institutional knowledge with them. Much of the UNH Cooperative Extension Food and Agriculture Team consists of new members stepping into IPM education roles and bringing new perspectives and experiences to our state IPM program. These new members will benefit greatly from professional development opportunities, such as attending professional conferences and regional working groups. We also aim to incorporate extension objectives into undergraduate and graduate training, to support their professional development as well as to strengthen relationships between our Extension specialists and UNH's College of Life Sciences and Agriculture. |
| Protecting Alaska Farms in a Changing Climate | 1033021 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43668 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This is an Extension Implementation Project (EIP). IPM coordinator and administrative contact for this project is Dr. Casey Matney. Our goal is to improve the resiliency and sustainability of Alaska agriculture and communities through IPM strategies that reduce the rate of establishment of invasive species and mitigate the effects of existing pests. Our objectives are to: 1) strengthen support for IPM assistants and outreach efforts to enhance early detection and rapid response to pests in communities and specialty crops, especially invasive species, 2) engage in revegetation research using native plants to overcome invasive weeds and advance pollinator health while reducing pesticide risks, and 3) improve IPM distance training for pesticide applicators. Alaska has been leading the nation in the number of new farms and farmers. Not only are there more beginning farmers, but it's been revealed that the state holds the second youngest average age of producers, along with being number two in the percentage of female producers and percentage of producers with military service. These farmers need IPM information and training. While agriculture is growing in Alaska, the climate is warming two to three times faster than the global average and approximately 50% greater than the lower-48 states. Under these circumstances, Alaska is at greater risk of new pest invasion than ever before. To address these challenges, our project priorities are: IPM Implementation in Specialty Crops (21%), IPM implementation in Communities (53%), IPM for Pollinator Health (15%), and IPM for Pesticide Applicators (11%). |
| Partnering to foster development and adoption of IPM strategies for Specialty Crop Producers in Massachusetts | 1033016 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43566 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This is an EIP proposal. We will address stakeholder-identified priorities using an integrated applied research and outreach approach to develop and deliver diverse and effective pest management strategies and technologies that fortify our regional food system and are economical to deploy, while also protecting public health, agricultural workers and the environment, a key priority of the National IPM Road Map. We will leverage new expertise in the areas of weed science and urban agriculture to promote proven and novel IPM approaches to existing and new audiences. We will partner with other state and federal agencies to provide regional pesticide applicator education tools and to leverage available financial assistance, making IPM adoption more economically sustainable. We will also address critical pest challenges, climate change issues, and develop strategies for successful implementation of habitat restoration systems that maximize conservation of pollinators and integrate with management of other components of agricultural systems through our applied research program.Priority areas addressed: IPM Implementation in Specialty Crops (83.8%), IPM for Pollinator Health (5%), IPM Education for Pesticide Applicators (10%), and Coordination (1.2%).Project goals:1. Provide outreach and education for MA specialty crop growers via technical assistance, educational presentations and meetings, podcasts, and "e-office hours."2.Applied and demonstration research to identify novel IPM approaches that directly address stakeholder-identified pest priorities in MA3.Partner to increase awareness of IPM practices, mitigation strategies, and financial assistance programs through collaboration and training-the-trainers (Urban Ag, MDAR, NRCS) |
| Crop Protection and Pest Management Extension Implementation Program for South Carolina | 1033009 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43504 | 2024 | CLEMSON UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The three-year Program objectives focus on the following Priority Areas: IPM Implementation in Agronomic & Specialty Crops, IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities, and IPM for Pollinator Health. The South Carolina CPPM-EIP will continue to address critical, stakeholder identified needs, and will build upon previous EIP Program activities to increase adoption of IPM practices. The goal of the statewide CPPM-EIP is to increase knowledge and capabilities of South Carolina producers and pest managers to adopt cost-effective and environmentally sound IPM practices, providing long-term solutions to key pest management issues. The EIP Coordination program will continue existing collaborations and develop new collaborative projects with South Carolina State University and with other institutions and stakeholder organizations, including with other regional EIP Programs and the Southern IPM Center. The proposed Program will strengthen statewide Extension IPM efforts by developing collaborative, inter- and trans-disciplinary training and demonstration and will address IPM Road Map recommendations to "improve the cost/benefit relationship when adopting IPM practices, and to reduce the potential human health risks and adverse environmental effects of related management strategies". The core program emphasis will be on Extension activities to transfer research-based recommendations and new knowledge to our stakeholders by combining a range of formal and informal training methods, including field demonstrations, and development of online and smartphone IPM tools. |
| Expanding Extension IPM in New Mexico: A Multidisciplinary Approach | 1033004 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43539 | 2024 | NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service Goals for IPM are to highlight specific benefits of IPM, overcome perceived barriers, and increase adoption across stakeholder groups. Many stakeholder groups across NM are eager to learn and implement IPM practices. However, while there is some general appreciation for a more environmentally friendly approach to managing pests, particularly in northern NM, IPM is often misunderstood and sometimes used as a buzzword rather than understood as a discipline with specific recommendations that are the result of rigorous replicated trials. EIP funds will be critical to supporting our efforts to deliver IPM education and increase adoption across the state. The program priorities addressed include: 1. IPM for Agronomic and/or Specialty Crops (33%) 2. IPM for Communities (31%), 3. IPM for Pollinator Health (15%) 4. IPM for Pesticide Applicators (6%), and 5. IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities (15%). NMSU's EIP proposal addresses three focus areas highlighted in the IPM Road Map and the Crop Protection and Pest Management (CPPM) program, including 1. IPM for sustainable communities, 2. diversified IPM systems, 3. plant protection tactics and tools. |
| Oregon Integrated Pest Management Center: Understanding, Reconnecting, Delivering and Supporting State and Regional IPM Programs | 1033003 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43503 | 2024 | OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The main goal of this proposal is to coordinate Integrated Pest Management (IPM) implementation across Oregon for agriculture and non-agricultural sectors, focusing on four priority areas: (1) IPM Implementation in Agronomic and/or Specialty Crops, (2) IPM Implementation in Communities, (3) IPM for Pesticide Applicators, and (4) IPM Support for Pest Diagnostics. Priority 1 includes 1) developing IPM StrategicPlans; 2) heightening the use of decision-support tools; 3) strengthening IPM outreach and education; and 4) connecting with IPM practitioners across the region by addressing critical needs. Priority 2 will focus on our new website, Solve Pest Problems, which provides ondemand and non-technical pest management information to urban and rural residents, landscapers, Master Gardeners, and underserved communities. Through collaboration with the statewide Pesticide Safety Education Program, in Priority 3 we will create content focusing onpesticide use within the context of IPM, pesticide-resistance management, and develop webbased tools for pesticide risk mitigation. Lastly, in Priority 4 we will partner with diagnostic clinics and professionals to provide training on pest identification, targeting multiple cropsthroughout Oregon including emerging problems; orchard insect pests and beneficials; pest outbreaks such as grasshoppers; and emergingweeds including Palmer amaranth. Our services incorporate research innovations and extension outreach into hands-on, in-person, hybrid, and online programs with educational materials in both English and Spanish. Programs are transdisciplinary, fully integrating social, economic, and technical dimensions to enable our audiences to adopt and implement IPM strategie |
| Development and Delivery of Progressive IPM Outreach for Wisconsin Crops | 1032992 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43559 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN SYSTEM | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The University of Wisconsin (UW) IPM Program will provide information that increases agricultural profitability while minimizing environmental impacts associated with pest management practices, thereby helping producers grow safe food and feed through utilization of a well-organized and comprehensive IPM extension delivery system. The UW IPM Program will help develop and disseminate objective information on effective and affordable IPM systems which stress proper pest identification and holistic management programs that include all effective and affordable IPM management techniques. These IPM techniques will also address resistance issues, emerging pests, environmental safety and human health. A broad set of outreach tools will be used to reach diverse audiences, ranging from traditional in-person meeting presentations to a comprehensive library of YouTube videos. |
| IPM strategies in Minnesota for evolving climate, pests and audiences | 1032985 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43568 | 2024 | REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Minnesota has a large and diverse specialty and commodity crop industry. Minnesota agriculture is valued at $90 billion and supports over 340,000 jobs (Walz, 2019). New and emerging insect pests, plant diseases, and weeds are issues that can hinder crop production. It's important to identify solutions that are adapted to Minnesota's climate and growing conditions. The adoption of IPM strategies that reduce the environmental impact of pesticide applications, minimize the spread of invasive species, improve pollinator habitats and the financial sustainability of agricultural commodity and specialty crop production systems is important to the state's economy and natural resources.Extension leverages its networks to educate about IPM strategies in a variety of ways. Educational events are held for agricultural professionals, crop producers, and commercial beekeepers. Information is shared on Extension's website and through newsletters, videos, blogs and podcasts. Extension also leverages thousands of Master Gardener volunteers that work in nearly every county in Minnesota to help educate audiences of gardeners who may not otherwise know much about pest management. It incorporates IPM strategies into pesticide safety training programs for people applying Restricted Use Pesticides on their agricultural land or as a part of their job.These methods are intended to increase the use of IPM strategies such as the proper calibration of sprayers, better identifying invasive species and resistance issues, protecting pollinator habitats, and applying recommended rates of pesticides |
| Nebraska Extension Implementation Program | 1032982 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43500 | 2024 | BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This is an Extension Implementation Program (EIP) proposal. It addresses four priority areas (1) IPM Implementation in Agronomic and/or Specialty Crops (65%), (2) IPM for Pollinator Health (20%), (3) IPM Implementation in Communities including Housing and Schools (5%), and (4) IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities (5%). Amit Jhala and Travis Prochaska are IPM Coordinators and David Varner is the Program Administrative Contact. The funding requested will maintain capacity to respond to changing pest populations, cropping practices, implement IPM, and promote pollinator health across several Nebraska agro-ecozones in communities, housing, and schools. The program priority areas are chosen based on the existence of active Extension IPM teams in Nebraska to solve stakeholders' problems. This proposal will develop statewide Extension programs to address diverse pest problems and emphasize the IPM options in the PAMS model (Prevention, Avoidance, Monitoring, and Suppression). Extension programs are designed to improve adoption of IPM practices in four priority areas. Improved knowledge and adoption of IPM practices have been documented among stakeholders from our past Extension programs (see attached impact reports). Multi-disciplinary teams of Extension faculty and staff, in collaboration with stakeholders and partners (see attached letters of support), will develop Extension programs that utilize a variety of in-person and digital delivery methods targeted to diverse audiences, including underserved populations. Extension programs will be evaluated to document knowledge gained, adoption of IPM practices, and their economic impact in a survey developed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Bureau of Sociological Research (5% budget included). |
| Strengthening Missouri IPM Resources to Reach Diverse Clientele with Sustainable Pest Management | 1032979 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43537 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI SYSTEM | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Missouri is a diverse state that is home to 95,000 farms and has many IPM-related needs. The state ranks in the top 10 for corn, soybean, forage, rice, and cotton production according to the Missouri Department of Agriculture. Additionally, specialty crops are produced in nearly 90% of Missouri counties (MU Assessment Resource Center 2017). The state is divided into 114 counties across 4 distinct ecoregions, which are classified based on flora, fauna, topography, and climate (Olson and Dinerstein, 2009). Each region having distinct clientele and integrated pest management (IPM) needs.The project director and co-PDs propose to address the following priority areas that reflect Missouri's diverse agriculture production and close partnerships with stakeholders and clientele:IPM implementation in Agronomic and Specialty Crops (54%)IPM for pesticide applicators (14%)IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities (32%)Overall goals of this proposal are to enhance dissemination of integrated pest management (IPM) information to Missouri clientele to facilitate increased adoption of sustainable IPM practices. The PD and co-PD's provide objectives that address:equipping Amish and Hispanic farmers with improved plant protection tools and tactics.developing the next generation of IPM scientists through an extension training assistantship.partnering with the Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) and additional entities to address the EPA Vulnerable Species Pilot Program and to train pesticide applicators on IPM.continuing to provide pest identification services and to monitor for early detection of invasive and emerging pest threats. |
| IPM Extension Implementation for Louisiana | 1032978 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43560 | 2024 | LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY AGRICULTURAL CENTER | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The overarching goal of the program is to deliver timely, reliable, and applicable research-based information that is directly aligned with stakeholder needs. The combined gross value and value-added activities of Louisiana's agricultural industry are estimated to be nearly $12 billion. However, due to Louisiana's subtropical climate, many insects, diseases, and weeds impact agronomic commodities and natural habitats. IPM is essential in mitigating pest problems, while simultaneously protecting agricultural production, health, and the environment. The project and objectives developed in this program were based on input and concerns identified through active engagement with key stakeholders. The program will focus on four priorities: IPM implementation in agronomic crops, IPM support for pest diagnostic facilities, IPM implementation in communities including housing, and IPM for pesticide applicators. To increase the impact of IPM research and extension, we will include innovative approaches such as developing a user-friendly AI-assisted pest management guide, conducting comprehensive statewide extension training (IPM School), and creating online resources and apps for the general public and agriculture industry. We will continue resistance monitoring and management by supporting novel IPM initiatives such as monitoring insecticide resistance in stink bugs, identifying pathways of guava root-knot nematode dissemination, documenting fungicide-resistant plant pathogens, addressing herbicide resistance in agricultural weeds, and monitoring bollworm resistance in Bt crops. Lastly, we will broaden the scope of EIP-supported IPM extension activities by including projects related to urban pests and disease vectors in housing communities. |
| 2024 CALIFORNIA EXTENSION IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM | 1032972 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43546 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | This proposal from the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program (UC IPM) addresses Administrative Coordination (13%), IPM Implementation for Agronomic Crops and/or Specialty Crops (17%), IPM for Pollinator Health (18%), and IPM Implementation in Communities including Housing and Schools (52%). The work proposed builds on previous EIP-funded grant outputs and successes, such as the launch of MyIPM. The overall goals are to develop extension products and trainings that make IPM information readily available to all Californians. That includes web content; how-to videos; continuing education as webinars or online courses; and in-person and train-the-trainer workshops. The Coordination objectives will provide newly hired Cooperative Extension academics with the awareness of IPM resources that can assist in their success. The IPM in Agronomic/Specialty Crops objectives are to develop pest weather model user alerts, continue our successful webinar series, add another online course on vertebrate pest management, and publish a new date palm pest management resource. We propose a new online resource about native bees found in agricultural crops, webinars, and updating the Bee Precautions Pesticide Ratings online tool for the IPM for Pollinator Health priority. In IPM for Communities, we will continue in-person and webinar trainings. We propose focusing on public health pests, pesticide safety, and IPM for lawns and turfgrass, developing content for pest management professionals, housing managers, and residents. We propose to update the UC lawn guide, adding information that will be of greater use by groundskeepers at school sites and other managed landscapes. |
| Advancing IPM Knowledge and Adoption in Indiana | 1032963 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43536 | 2024 | PURDUE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Overview of Indiana's IPM ProgramAs the emphasis upon themes including sustainability, environmental resilience, and safeguarding of endangered species becomes increasingly intertwined with all aspects of pest management, Indiana stakeholders require up-to-date, science-based knowledge grounded in the core principles of IPM more than ever before. Our multi-disciplinary Purdue Pest Management Program (PPMP) team has a long history of engaging closely with our stakeholders in delivering this information. In this proposal, we aim to continue to leverage our strong partnerships within the state and beyond and add additional dimensions to our team. Although our previous (2021) EIPM proposal submission was well-received and ranked, we are taking previous reviewer feedback to heart to improve this 2024 iteration.A key point of feedback in our 2021 previous submission was the recommendation that we partner with a social scientist to assist with program evaluation and improvement. We have acted upon this recommendation by adding Dr. Anne Lutomia to our team. She is a social scientist with expertise in evaluating pest management programs in the US and abroad. We also complement our existing team by adding Dr. Barry Pittendrigh, the Director of the Center for Urban and Industrial Pest Management, to oversee and expand our reach into urban pest management, including homeowners. Program delivery going forward will include our established and traditional in-person and virtual opportunities to learn and receive certification and address accessibility issues rooted in inequitable economic circumstances. Our expanded use of virtual meeting technology was initially spurred on by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and, while we are mostly "back to normal" with in-person activities, we plan to continue to use online/remote approaches to increase access and training opportunities for diverse audiences.Indiana's economy is largely based upon agriculture, and a key element of our pest management programs will be working with our respective stakeholders in the implementation of more stringent regulations surrounding the enforcement of the Endangered Species Act (ESA); the 2024 growing season will present the initial test of these new guidelines. The Office of the Indiana State Chemist (OISC) is the lead agency in our state for disseminating the new ESA guidelines, and PDs Krupke and Johnson (both members of the Indiana pesticide review board) will work closely with the OISC and Purdue Pesticide Programs on disseminating key information (see attached letters of support from both). This coordination goes beyond Indiana, and PD Krupke serves as the primary point of contact with other state IPM coordinators as we plan to share and disseminate information on this, and other, urgent and cross-cutting issues over the life of this proposal (see attached letters of support from NCIPM Center and corn entomologists working group). We describe how we address fundamental aspects of the National IPM Roadmap in the details for programs that address three EIP priorities. Our education programs will steward pest management tools in a manner that slows the evolution of pesticide resistance in insects, pathogens and weeds, improve the health and welfare of homeowners, conserve pollinators, and protect the public and natural resources from invasive species. Finally, we will train the next generation of IPM specialists by supporting students who help develop, deliver and assess IPM tools, including new digital technologies. |
| Virginia IPM Extension Implementation Program | 1032962 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43753 | 2024 | VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE & STATE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Agriculture is Virginia's largest private industry, adding approximately $82.3 billion annually to the state's economy and providing more than 381,800 jobs. The state's agricultural commodity mix is one of the most diverse in the nation. Major commodity sectors addressed in this proposal include both agronomic and specialty crops, which when combined comprise one-third of Virginia's farm cash receipts. Despite the value and growth of these commodity sectors, significant pest management challenges threaten the profitability and sustainability of Virginia agriculture. Problems with a diverse and ever-changing array of native and invasive pest species pose a continuing challenge, and educational programs are needed to shift growers away from prophylactic use of pesticides and toward adoption of IPM. In addition, improving the health and sustainability of managed and wild pollinator populations and their pollination services is another increasing priority in Virginia. Development and delivery of coordinated educational programs targeting youth, beekeepers, producers, and pesticide applicators is needed to ensure that good stewardship practices are followed and responsible pest management practices are implemented to preserve pollinator health. Apart from agricultural pests, the growing presence of bed bugs presents specific challenges for vulnerable populations in Virginia, including the elderly, underserved communities, and individuals with low income. Bed bug infestations have emerged as a significant issue, compounding difficulties for these groups. Addressing the challenges posed by the increasing prevalence of bed bugs requires targeted efforts and support systems to ensure the health and living conditions of these vulnerable populations are safeguarded.Specific activities for this project fall into four key priority areas and include: 1) IPM Implementation in Agronomic and Specialty Crops (IPM train-the-trainer workshop, development and dissemination of coordinated regional evaluation surveys, corn earworm resistance monitoring, promoting IPM-based decisions in protected systems, and improving IPM for the nursery and floriculture industries.), 2) IPM Implementation in Communities Including Housing and Schools (community bed bug IPM training program, and promoting IPM-based decisions in community gardens), 3) IPM for Pollinator Health (promoting IPM for managed pollinators, and using on-farm demonstrations to promote pollinator health), and 4) IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities.Project activities provide a critical foundation to address the important local, state, and national IPM goals of increasing adoption, implementation, and efficiency of economical pest management practices while minimizing potential risks to human health and the environment. With training and continued exposure, clientele can be encouraged to adopt new and/or more effective practices to improve pest management programs while decreasing reliance on broad-spectrum pesticides. Resources and information developed from this project will be delivered in a variety of formats to a diversity of clientele at all levels of participation, including growers, pest managers, crop consultants, and beekeepers among others. |
| The Arizona Pest Management Center: Supporting Adoption Of High-Impact Ipm In Diverse Environments And Among Underserved Populations | 1032945 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43563 | 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2025 | 2024 | ACTIVE | Arizona is characterized by extremely productive irrigated agricultural lands, unique flora and fauna, extreme and sensitive environments, large urban centers made-up of transplanted people and cultures, and often remote tribal communities. Our diverse stakeholders require information on the safe and effective management of pests, including ways to reduce risks to human health and the environment while sustaining economically viable industry in our state. The Arizona Pest Management Center, formed in response to stakeholders' demands for greater transparency, engagement and relevance in our programs, encompasses the full set of University of Arizona research and Extension resources involved in the implementation of IPM in Arizona.Our Extension IPM programs are organized within the Arizona Pest Management Center, which coordinates programs, communication, planning, stakeholder engagement and IPM team building, through a stakeholder IPM Coordinating Committee that advises the IPM Coordinator (Ellsworth, P.D.), and directs the IPM Program Manager (Fournier, co-PD). Transdisciplinary Leadership Teams for each Priority Area direct activities of Assistants in Extension that synergize program outputs and enhance our capacity to support IPM implementation including by underserved/Tribal end-users. An IPM Assessment Leadership Team develops resources and approaches to measure adoption and economic, environmental, and human health impacts of IPM across all program areas.Through this project, we support adoption of high-impact IPM programs addressing priority stakeholder needs in three EIP Priority Areas: IPM Implementation in Agronomic and Specialty Crops, IPM Implementation in Communities including Housing and Schools, and IPM in Public Health.Our overall goal is to support and advance IPM implementation by end-users in Arizona through coordinated multidisciplinary education and outreach that empowers pest managers to put IPM knowledge into practice. Team supporting objectives are to design, implement, teach, demonstrate and evaluate tailored IPM programs in diverse settings to help clientele reduce economic, environmental, and health risks from pests and pest management practices, addressing Crop Protection and Pest Management focal areas and National IPM Roadmap goals.We systematically measure the learning outcomes and the economic and environmental impacts of our programs. The APMC provides proven support for stakeholder engagement, needs assessment, strategic planning, outreach and evaluation of IPM in all our systems. |
| South Dakota State University Integrated Pest Management Program | 1032939 | NIFA Non Formula | 2024-70006-43498 | 2024 | SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY | 09/01/2024 | 08/31/2026 | 2024 | ACTIVE | The South Dakota State University Integrated Pest Management Program provides stakeholders with education focused on agronomic and specialty crops, pollinator health, pesticide applicators, public health, and the SDSU Plant Diagnostic Clinic. The goal of the SDSU IPM Program is to increase the adoption of integrated pest management in South Dakota for the management of insects, plant diseases, and weeds. This will be accomplished through education and outreach efforts delivered to stakeholders. In South Dakota, the production of major agronomic crops is faced with numerous challenges. Some of the more common challenges include the presence of weeds, plant diseases, and insect pests. The routine management of these pests with pesticides has resulted in the development of herbicide resistance, insecticide resistance, and fungicide resistance in South Dakota. To reduce the impact of these pests on production while also reducing the likelihood of additional cases of resistance, the SDSU IPM Program is encouraging the widespread use of integrated pest management. Although pesticides are a component of integrated pest management there are additional strategies that are often overlooked or ignored. This indicates the need for education and demonstration of these alternative management options. Some of the more common resistance issues include Glyphosate resistant weeds (e.g., kochia and waterhemp) pyrethroid resistant soybean aphids and red sunflower seed weevils and isolates of frogeye leaf spot that are resistant to strobilurin fungicides. Pollinators are also important as both a commodity and their value of pollination services provided to other agronomic crops. The routine use of broad-spectrum insecticides for insect pest management has the potential to also have negative impacts on foraging pollinators. In addition, South Dakota is a major producer of honey bees and honey. However, little work has been done to assist these stakeholders or address their needs. There are approximately 23,000 pesticide applicators in South Dakota, and training of these individuals is important for both their safety and the potential to reduce pesticide resistance development due to poorly maintained or calibrated spray equipment. A major component of integrated pest management is identification of the pest. In South Dakota, recent discoveries of the lone star tick indicate the need to educate stakeholders on proper identification and avoidance of tick bites. Many of the pest identifications occur in South Dakota through the SDSU Plant Diagnostic Clinic. This clinic receives approximately 1,200 samples each year and specialists provide information to stakeholders based on these samples. To accomplish the goal of the project, identification guides, fact sheets, extension articles, presentations, and events will be developed, disseminated, and hosted to provide educational materials to stakeholders across South Dakota. Through these efforts there will be increased adoption of IPM practices, particularly the cultural methods and host plant resistance to further reduce pesticide resistance development. |