Source: PURDUE UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
ADVANCING IPM KNOWLEDGE AND ADOPTION IN INDIANA
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
ACTIVE
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
1032963
Grant No.
2024-70006-43536
Cumulative Award Amt.
$272,697.00
Proposal No.
2024-03464
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Sep 1, 2024
Project End Date
Aug 31, 2025
Grant Year
2024
Program Code
[EIP]- Extension Implementation Program
Recipient Organization
PURDUE UNIVERSITY
(N/A)
WEST LAFAYETTE,IN 47907
Performing Department
(N/A)
Non Technical Summary
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.
Animal Health Component
90%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
10%
Applied
90%
Developmental
0%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
2110530113010%
2111119113010%
2111510113015%
2111820113010%
2121510116010%
2121820116010%
2121119116010%
2161510114015%
2161820114010%
Knowledge Area
212 - Pathogens and Nematodes Affecting Plants; 211 - Insects, Mites, and Other Arthropods Affecting Plants; 216 - Integrated Pest Management Systems;

Subject Of Investigation
1119 - Deciduous tree fruits, general/other; 1510 - Corn; 1820 - Soybean; 0530 - Parks and urban green space;

Field Of Science
1130 - Entomology and acarology; 1160 - Pathology; 1140 - Weed science;
Goals / Objectives
IPM Implementation for Agronomic Crops (50%) and Specialty Crops (20%)1) educating pest managers to not become overly reliant, or complacent, in using the prophylactic approaches rooted in an insurance mindset, but rather consider the many benefits of the IPM "toolbox" as a whole2) communicating the impact of enforcement of the Endangered Species Act restrictions on pesticide use near sensitive areas and providing guidance on alternative management strategies in these buffer areasIPM in Communities (20%)Deploy pest diagnostic tools. Pest diagnosis and management were identified in 2021 as the most important information needs by Purdue Landscape Report subscribers (89%) and Green Industry Expo attendees (3 of top 5 needs). In addition to workshops and extension bulletins, we have met this need through in-person and virtual education programs, timely newsletters, and mobile apps. With this proposal we are aiming to convert the TurfDoctor mobile app to the same web-based format that has already proven successful.Disseminate Digital IPM Education Modules. Our current digital IPM education footprint includes a series of nine courses that provide basic and advanced IPM knowledge and continuing certification hours (CCH's) in a broad range of systems. Because the green industry remains one of the fastest growing segments of U.S. agriculture21, we propose to expand our growing series of modules that support workforce development for the turfgrass industry. The CCH's provided by each module will vary, depending on the material and time requirements, but we expect each module to provide approximately 1 of the 20 CCH's required every five years by the Indiana State Chemist in order for professionals to maintain their pesticide applicator license (category 3b). These efforts will be led by our turf team (Richmond and Miller) and as modules become available, stakeholders will be made aware of these new training opportunities via advertising, and directly during all of our ongoing education events (Indiana Green Expo, MRTF Field Day, Turf & Landscape Seminar, Herbicide Workshop).Urban Pest Management: Dr. Pittendrigh will be working with the Indiana Pest Management Association to identify and build educational urban pest management industry modules for incorporation into the CUIPM's annual conference and correspondence courses. Dr. Pittendrigh will also work with Richmond and Miller (see above) around the build out of new turgrass IPM modules.We will evaluate our outputs by collecting data throughout the project period to quantify: 1) attendees at extension and outreach events. 2) Numbers of newsletters/articles/video views. 3) BMPs developed and circulated. We will evaluate outcomes via written and Qualtrics online surveys as appropriate at extension and other outreach events to determine if we have achieved milestones of success by increasing adoption of critical BMPs including: 1) Rotation of technologies to protect crops and reduce reliance on Bt corn hybrids, 2) Weed management practices change to reduce herbicide injury and selection pressure for weed resistance, 3) Disease management practices that are timely and effective in controlling new and emerging diseases while minimizing risks to the development of fungicide resistance.Pollinator Health (10%)Breeding Bees in the 21st Century: Core to a beekeeper's IPM strategy is the use of honey bee breeds that are resistant to disease. This reduces the use of chemicals within the colony and the chance of the colony spreading diseases to wild pollinators. The Purdue Bee Lab, along with Senior Apicultural Specialist Krispn Given, work closely with beekeeping and bee breeding organizations and governmental bodies dedicated to breeding disease-resistant and productive bees. The team will work to develop and introduce new technologies to make beekeeping more profitable. This includes developing Best Practices for phenotyping, selecting breeder stocks, insemination, and handling. Working with Harpur, Mr. Given is currently developing a 'virtual-plus' version of the courses. It will allow students (bee breeders) to learn the information in an asynchronous virtual classroom. The 'plus' option allows them to learn hands-on at our training apiary. We anticipate this will allow for at least 150 students to annually take the courses, nearly tripling our training output.
Project Methods
1. Implement IPM in Agronomic and Specialty Crops• Methods. We will deliver targeted research-based extension education and training through specialized programs andelectronic and print media for commercial pesticide applicators, certified crop advisors, independent crop consultants, countyextension Educators, and farmers. needs cross many boundaries, as such, the Purdue Pesticide Programs has recently begunconverting to eLearning training courses. We will also contribute to a multi-state effort, coordinated by Iowa State University,providing field scouts/company interns online IPM education to better their pest identification and scouting techniques.• Evaluation: Our emphasis is on "train the trainer" efforts, development of publications and online resources, and keepingagribusiness personnel updated on rapidly evolving IPM techniques, technologies, control strategies, and changing pestpopulations. Most survey methodology and instruments have been developed already, and will be further refined in consultationwith the help of Julie Huetteman, Purdue extension's evaluation specialist and approval of Purdue's Institutional Review Board.Historically, PPMP programs have used rates of adopting IPM tactics as indicators of program success. For example, a surveyof the 1,002 attendees of the 2020 Crop Management Workshop indicated that: 47% of the participants indicated that they makeor influence pest management decisions on 10,000 or more acres and that 85% of the attendees monitored customer fields atleast once per month. 96% indicated they would apply the meeting's information on pest identification and treatment decisions tonext season's crops while 91% have already implemented crop production/IPM strategies into their operation from ideas thatoriginated at past CMWs.• We will evaluate our outputs by collecting data throughout the project period to quantify: 1) Attendees at extension andoutreach events. 2) Numbers of newsletters/articles/video views. 3) BMPs developed and circulated. We will evaluateoutcomes via repeated survey questions using clicker technology (when/where possible), and Qualtrics online surveys asappropriate at extension and other outreach events to determine if we have achieved milestones of success by increasingadoption of critical BMPs including: 1) Rotation of technologies to protect crops and reduce reliance on Bt corn hybrids, 2)Weedmanagement practices change to reduce herbicide injury and selection pressure for weed resistance, 3) Disease managementpractices are timely and effective in controlling new and emerging diseases while minimizing risks to the development offungicide resistance.The Specialty Crops Team will meet regularly to plan and conduct Extension programs for fruit and vegetablegrowers throughout the state. Purdue is the production site for multi-state publications. Specialist serve as subject editors for allpest categories of the Midwest Vegetable Production Guide for Commercial Growers (8 states, >46,000 annual views) and theMidwest Fruit Pest Management Guide (Beckerman is Editor in Chief) (13 states >50,000 annual views), that provide pestmanagement recommendations for specialty crop growers. In addition, 641 vegetable growers subscribe to the "VegetableCrops Hotline" newsletter (>196,000 views in 2020) and 610 fruit growers subscribe to the "Facts for Fancy Fruit" newsletter(>24,000 views in 2020). Long, Ingwell, Meyers and Egel are members of the Great Lakes Vegetable Working Group. Long andBeckerman are members of the Midwest Fruit Working Group.• Evaluation: We will measure indicators of IPM program success through surveys of newsletter subscribers, website usersand conference attendees measuring adoption of recommendations and pest monitoring. We will track outputs (a) throughtracking attendance to all our events, and (b) website analytics to track engagement with newsletter, websites, e-seriespublications and social media interactions. Outcomes will be tracked by targeted surveys of clientele to measure knowledgegained, and economic benefit.Implement IPM in Communities• Methods: The Urban Ag team will contribute to the certificate-based Signature Program for UA, which 131 participantshave completed since 2016, and a monthly UA newsletter with 695 subscribers that provide a vehicle for dissemination.Information is transferred during annual meeting of the Small Farms and Hort Conferences. The green industry tram willcontinue to contribute to the Purdue Landscape Report and Turf Tips newsletters with 395K and 297K unique views in 2020.Annual meetings of state-wide and local clientele groups such as the Indiana Green Industry Expo reach over 10,000participants annually. Extension Specialists work with the director of the PPDL to diagnose 1,700 home horticulture cases eachyear.• Evaluation: We will measure indicators of IPM program success through surveys of newsletters, app and website usersthat measure improvement of IPM skills. For example we found increased confidence in pest identification and management byApp users (55%), and Landscape Report subscribers (89%). We will track outputs (a) through tracking attendees to all ourconferences, enrolment in our digital IPM education modules, course evaluation tools built into the digital learning environment,and (b) the use of Google Analytics tools that track engagement with newsletters, websites, and social media. Outcomes will betracked by targeted surveys of clientele to measure knowledge gained, and economic benefit (please see Outcomes section for further examples).Improve Pollinator Health• Methods: The pollinator team will work closely with a team of Purdue Extension Educators to develop accessible digitalbeekeeping content. They regularly present their work to beekeepers at the American Bee Research Conference (~3000members), The Indiana Bee School (1300 members), and the Heartland Apicultural Society (~500 members). Through theHHBBC we are able to connect with local chapters in 10 US states representing thousands of individual beekeepers. Alleducational activities and informational outputs will be publicized via the updated Purdue Bee Hive website, the lab's e-newsletter, and social media outlets targeting youth and all aspects of the green industry.• Evaluation: We will measure indicators of IPM program success through surveys of newsletter subscribers, bee labwebsite users, Field Day and webinar attendees measuring adoption of recommendations and pest monitoring. We will trackoutput (a) through tracking attendance to all our events, and (b) website analytics to track engagement with newsletter,websites, app use, e-series publications and social media interactions. Outcomes will be tracked by targeted surveys ofclientele to measure knowledge gained, and economic benefit, as well as by working with Anne Lutomia a social scientist as outlined in Outcomes section of this document.

Progress 09/01/24 to 08/31/25

Outputs
Target Audience:Producers and consultants servicing the following agricultural commodities were targeted by our efforts: Corn (field and fresh market), soybeans, alfalfa and other small grains, apples, peaches, grapes, strawberries, blueberries, mint, and a variety of other small fruit and berry crops. Both professional apiarists and hobby beekeepers were reached during the reporting period as part of our objective to improve pollinator health. In addition, we targeted homeowners, lawncare professionals, and golf course superintendents with presentations and pest identification for turfgrass, woody ornamental plants, greenhouse and garden ornamentals, and structural pests. Changes/Problems: Our IPM specialist, Dr. John Obermeyer, retired in April of 2025. He was a key member of our team and we are currently awaiting word on whether a replacement can be hired. The social scientist that was leading the work on revamping our survey questions and analyses, Dr. Anne Lutomia, left the university in April of 2025 as well before completing the initial year of work (September 2024-August 2025). We are currently searching for an individual that can assist with this sub-objective. IPM Implementation in Agronomic Crops The addition of a new Extension weed science faculty member (Dr. Thomas Butts) will further expand research and outreach efforts revolving around new weed control technologies, use of artificial intelligence in agriculture, and their implementation in successful IPM strategies. IPM Implementation in Specialty Crops No major changes/problems to report IPM in Communities Urban Agriculture Some delays for 2025 program delivery due to delayed funding decisions. Urban Pests, Landscapes & Turf No major changes/problems to report Pollinator Health None to report. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?IPM Implementation in Agronomic Crops - Stakeholder Benefits Purdue's IPM training in agronomic crops has significantly enhanced workforce capacity and scientific communication: Weed Science: Over a dozen graduate students received hands-on training in weed identification, herbicide use, non-chemical weed control strategies, and site-specific weed management technologies. They presented their research at field days and national conferences, contributing to farmer education and scientific advancement. Field Crop Pathology: Five graduate students, three visiting scholars, and three undergraduate students were trained in plant disease diagnostics, fungicide application, and integrated disease management. These trainees produced technical reports and peer-reviewed publications, extending research findings to growers and stakeholders. Entomology: Four graduate students, three visiting scholars, and two undergraduates were trained in insect scouting, including pest and beneficial insect identification, bolstering pest detection and IPM implementation across Indiana's field crop systems. IPM Implementation in Specialty Crops - Stakeholder Benefits Specialty crop IPM research and extension has supported a robust pipeline of future experts: Dr. Ingwell's Program: Currently supports 1 postdoc, 4 graduate students, 4 undergraduates, and 4 visiting scholars. These team members are involved in data collection, analysis, and outreach. They have shared their work at statewide agricultural conferences and through extension newsletters, increasing knowledge transfer to specialty crop producers. Dr. Long's Program: Trained 1 M.S. student and 2 undergraduates in applied entomology. Students have been engaged in pest monitoring in fruit and vegetable systems, nematode sampling, and direct engagement with growers at extension events, enhancing diagnostic capacity and practical pest solutions for stakeholders. IPM in Communities - Stakeholder Benefits Training under this theme supports sustainable food systems, pest resilience, and public education: Urban Agriculture: Two postdocs, two graduate students, four undergraduates, and three visiting scholars participated in high tunnel IPM research across 18 farms along Indiana's urban-rural gradient. Their work supports urban farmers with localized pest management solutions and contributes to food system resilience. Urban Pests, Landscapes & Turf: Entomology Program: One postdoc, two graduate students, two undergraduates, and two visiting scholars were immersed in turfgrass IPM, invasive species biology, and conservation-focused pest control strategies. Pathology Program: Three graduate students and one technician led outreach and research on sustainable disease management, pesticide resistance, and turfgrass health. They also investigated ecological benefits of conservation plantings on golf courses, offering environmental and economic benefits to the turf industry. Summary of Stakeholder Impact This broad portfolio of IPM training efforts supports: Development of a new generation of pest management professionals Practical, applied research benefiting farmers, landscapers, and urban growers Knowledge transfer to industry professionals through field days, conferences, and publications Greater adoption of science-based, environmentally responsible pest control practices Long-term sustainability through strengthened human capacity in agriculture and IPM sciences How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Agronomic Crops Purdue's IPM outreach used diverse formats--extension meetings, field days, conferences, podcasts, videos, and articles--to communicate research findings. The January 2025 Crop Management Workshops (CMWs) had 963 attendees. Post-event surveys showed 97% found it worthwhile, 99% intended to apply the knowledge, and 99% have already used IPM strategies learned at previous workshops. Over half the attendees manage 10,000+ acres or work as fertilizer/pesticide managers. The Pest&Crop newsletter features articles from all of the specialists on the project and publishes weekly articles on topics of interest, with a total subscriber base of over 3000 individuals A recent multi-institutional study led Dr. Krupke, published in Science, reveals that the widespread overuse of Bt corn hybrids engineered to combat corn rootworm is diminishing their effectiveness and reducing farmers' profits across the U.S. Corn Belt. The research, encompassing 12 years of field trials and seed usage data from 10 Midwestern states, indicates that continuous planting of Bt corn has accelerated rootworm resistance to Bt traits and was featured in the Science podcast as well. The study underscores the need for integrated pest management strategies, including crop rotation and judicious use of Bt traits, to preserve their effectiveness and ensure sustainable pest control for farmers Specialty Crops Ingwell's program contributed to numerous presentations: 2 at the International IPM Symposium, 6 at the ESA meeting, 13 at the Indiana Small Farms and Hort Conferences, and others across the Midwest. Surveys showed 83% gained IPM knowledge and 76% planned to implement new strategies. Outreach included newsletters with over 5,000 combined subscribers and YouTube videos reaching 44,000+ views. Dr. Long's team gave 7 presentations to fruit and vegetable growers at venues like the Indiana Hort Expo and the Midwest Mint Growers Conference. Survey feedback showed high rates of increased knowledge and intent to adopt new practices, with 83-100% of participants reporting gains in pest identification, biology understanding, and actionable insights. Urban Agriculture New extension publications and videos have been posted online, including 360° farm tours and recorded webinars. Three new webinars in early 2025 drew ~65 attendees each. Urban Pests, Landscapes & Turf Over 20 invited presentations were delivered at key industry events, reaching more than 1,200 professionals. Topics covered included insect/disease management, diagnostics, and organic care. Field days and publications supported hands-on learning. These efforts expanded understanding of sustainable pest control practices in turf systems. Pollinator Health Mr. Krispn Given and Dr. Brock Harpur delivered national presentations and workshops on bee breeding and health. Outreach included the BetterBee Podcast (1,300+ listeners), local media features, and over 10 student-led talks. Peer-reviewed publications shared best practices with scientific and applied audiences. Their DNA sequencing service supports ~100 annual submissions, providing practical genomics tools to beekeepers. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?IPM Implementation in Agronomic Crops Objective: Educating Pest Managers Continue research and extension efforts in entomology, plant pathology and weed science to address emerging weed challenges using field, lab, and greenhouse studies Maintain a diverse outreach strategy, including direct and indirect engagement with stakeholders Sustain the field crop pathology program with a focus on monitoring new diseases such as tar spot, red crown rot, and corn stunt Launch targeted research projects to improve disease management strategies based on surveillance results Objective: ESA Enforcement Integrate new resources into extension presentations by ANR educators and specialists Deliver ESA-mandated training topics, including at Private Applicator Recertification Programs (PARP) IPM Implementation in Specialty Crops Objective: Statewide Monitoring Publish trap data and pest management guidance in newsletters Expand monitoring efforts to include beneficial insects such as predators and parasitoids of invasive pests Objective: Updating Decision-Making Guides Add new biological and cultural control tools to the Midwest Vegetable Production Guide Update the Fruit Pest Management Guide to include efficacy data and biorational products Submit a grant to develop a mobile-friendly, searchable version of the Fruit Pest Management Guide Objective: Long-Term Resilient Agriculture Highlight resilient agricultural practices in specialty crops including watermelons and tomatoes through field day plot demonstrations Objective: Extending Applied Research Conduct and share applied research with timely, in-season updates through newsletters Host field days at Purdue Student Farm, Southwest Purdue Ag Center, and Pinney Purdue Ag Center Present research outcomes at grower conferences during winter 2025 to 2026 IPM in Communities Urban Agriculture Objective: Generate and Disseminate Urban Agriculture IPM Resources Continue collaboration with the Great Lakes Urban Agriculture IPM Working Group Host webinars and publish virtual farm tour content Analyze data from high tunnel production and share results regionally Organize an urban agriculture education track at the Indiana Horticulture and Small Farm Conference in March 2026 Urban Pests, Landscapes, and Turf Objective: Development of Pest Diagnostic Tools Redesign the Turf Doctor tool for mobile-friendly, web-based use Develop a searchable platform with a management interface for regular content updates Conduct internal testing to ensure reliability across all features Objective: Development of Digital IPM Education Modules Finalize and deploy four new digital IPM training modules Continue collecting feedback through post-training surveys to refine educational content Pollinator Health Expand bee breeding education by enhancing and scaling up the Queen Rearing and Instrumental Insemination courses Transition to a hybrid model with online instruction and in-person training, increasing annual participation from approximately 60 to 150 students Prioritize accessibility and affordability to reach underserved and older beekeepers Continue hosting Beekeeping Field Day and hands-on workshops, incorporating latest research and participant feedback Advance the integration of genomic tools into breeding strategies to improve stock selection and promote integrated pest management

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? We have accomplished approximately 30% of the goals laid out in our initial, 3-year proposal, submitted in June 2024. The highlights under the various categories are presented below: Accomplishments and Benefits for Farmers and Agronomic Stakeholders Improved Weed Management: Using cereal rye and crimson clover cover crops alongside residual herbicides leads to reduced early-season weed biomass. Herbicide performance is retained, reducing weed pressure and supporting better crop establishment. Disease Forecasting Tools: Tools help identify early risks from diseases like tar spot and red crown rot. Farmers avoid unnecessary fungicide applications, saving costs and increasing return on investment. Fungicide Use Optimization: Research shows that single, timely fungicide applications can preserve yield without requiring multiple treatments. This helps manage disease pressure without excessive chemical use or cost. IPM in Early Season Soybeans: Research by Johnson, Krupke and Telenko is focused on how the emerging trend of early soybean planting affects pest management decisions. One key finding that has been transmitted to stakeholders is that early season insecticidal seed treatments are less likely to be recovered in the plant than later in season. There is also no impact on insect pest damage reduction or yield when insecticidal seed treatments are used in early (or any) soybean planting situation Fungicide Use Optimization: Research shows that single, timely fungicide applications can preserve yield without requiring multiple treatments. This helps manage disease pressure without excessive chemical use or cost. Stewardship of Bt corn hybrids: Research led by Purdue demonstrates that our stakeholders in Indiana are likely overusing Bt hybrids, costing them millions in unneeded costs of transgenic technologiers Pesticide Regulation Support: Educational materials help applicators comply with updated Endangered Species Act (ESA) label requirements. Reduces risk of non-compliance and ensures up-to-date decision-making. Accomplishments and Benefits for Specialty Crop Producers Pest Monitoring Networks: Over 30 collaborators across 20 Indiana counties monitor specialty crop pests. Growers receive timely, localized pest alerts, improving management and minimizing losses. Updated Spray Guides: The Midwest Vegetable and Fruit Pest Management Guides were revised to include more on pest biology, cultural control, and organic practices. Producers benefit from clearer, more diverse IPM options tailored to their operations. Support for Resilience and Sustainability: On-farm research plots at Purdue Research Farms are testing climate-resilient systems. Stakeholders participate in events and surveys to inform future priorities and improve adoption of long-term practices. Accomplishments and Benefits for Agribusiness, Advisors, and Crop Consultants Precision Technology and Profitability: Research into drone-based spraying, machine learning, and smart applicators like the John Deere See & Spray supports site-specific herbicide application. This helps clients reduce costs and environmental impact. Applied Research Guided by Stakeholders: Advisors and consultants help shape research priorities through targeted surveys, administered via the Pest&Crop newsletter. This ensures research remains aligned with industry needs Accomplishments and Benefits for Urban Agriculture Stakeholders Urban Farm IPM Support: Data from 18 high tunnel farms informs best practices for managing pests in diverse, urban-to-rural environments. Webinars and outreach support small-scale growers with limited resources. Accomplishments and Benefits for Urban and Industrial Pest Management Professionals Annual Professional Conference: The 89th Annual Purdue Pest Management Conference drew 298 participants over three days, covering IPM strategies for pests like cockroaches, bedbugs, ticks, mosquitoes, birds, rodents, and stored product pests. Attendees earned licensing credits and gained access to current, research-based strategies from leading experts. Year-Round Online Education: Purdue's Correspondence Courses in Urban and Industrial Pest Management enrolled 1,545 learners this year. Topics include IPM fundamentals, food plant safety, invasive borers, bed bug control, and termite management. These courses provide critical continuing education and are used by professionals across the U.S., including incarcerated individuals and global learners. Modernized Learning Access: Ongoing automation of course delivery--set to complete in June 2025--will speed up exam grading and incorporate modern teaching methods. This ensures high-quality, accessible, and efficient education for a diverse audience of pest management professionals. Accomplishments and Benefits for Green Industry and Turf Professionals Mobile-Friendly Diagnostic Tools: TurfDoctor is transitioning to a web-based platform, improving access for turfgrass managers and the public. No app installation needed, making diagnostics easier to use across devices. Online Training Modules: Two digital courses help turf professionals earn continuing education credits. Participants improve knowledge on insecticide safety, toxicity, and pest exposure--helping them manage turf more responsibly and stay certified. Workforce Development: Course feedback shows participants feel more prepared for current jobs and future roles. Flexible, remote learning supports professional growth in one of agriculture's fastest-growing sectors. Accomplishments and Benefits for Beekeepers and Pollinator Advocates Healthier Honey Bees Through Breeding: Purdue Bee Lab's work improves colony resilience to pests and diseases. This reduces chemical dependency and improves health outcomes for managed and native pollinators alike. Training Events with Lasting Impact: Field days, queen rearing, and insemination courses empower small-scale breeders and hobbyists. Most participants adopt new practices, including disease testing and sustainable breeding. High-Impact Research and Recognition: Research publications guide beekeepers on queen rearing, viral management, and sustainable practices. These outputs are used nationally and enhance both academic and commercial operations. Bottom Line for All Stakeholders Indiana's IPM programs deliver value through: Higher crop quality and yields Lower pest management costs and improved understanding of how/when pesticide inputs may be useful Better compliance with evolving regulations including the Endangered Species Act Reduced pesticide use and resistance risks Improved pollinator health and biodiversity, including stronger resilience to environmental stress

Publications

  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2025 Citation: Rodrigues Duffeck, M., Faris, A. M., Wayadande, A., Olson, J., Wallace, S., Espindola, A. S., Muller, L., Velasco, S. E., Murilo Zambiasi, J., Onofre, R. B., Stack, J., Day, C., Faske, T., Bish, M., Tian, P., Zhang, L., Valmorbida, I., Jackson-Ziems, T., Broderick, K. C., Shires, M., Tande, C., Bergstrom, G. C., Hunter, M. E., Stanyard, M. J., Aguiar, R., Hudelson, B., Smith, D., Sol�rzano, J. E., Malvick, D. K., Telenko, D. E. P., Creswell, T. and Bonkowski, J. C. 2025. Association of the pathogen Spiroplasma kunkelii with corn stunt symptoms in Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, New York, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Indiana during the 2024 growing season. Plant Health Progress. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHP-03-25-0082-SC.
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2025 Citation: Waibel, K. G., Goodnight, K. M., Boyer, J. L., Boyer, S. C., Helms, A. R., Wahlman, J. R., Quinn, D. J. and Telenko, D. E. P. 2025. Field-scale evaluation of fungicide timing for corn diseases and yield in Indiana from 2019 to 2022. Plant Health Progress. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHP-04-25-0103-RS
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2025 Citation: Waibel, K., Goodnight, K. M., Rocco da Silva, C., Bonkowski, J., Creswell, T., Poudel, P., Quinn, D. J., Ruhl, G., Shim, S., Weaver, J. C., Wise, K. A., and Telenko, D. E. P. 2025. Tracking the distribution and risk of tar spot of corn in Indiana from 2015 to 2022. Plant Health Progress. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHP-08-24-0082-S.
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2025 Citation: Friskop, A. J., Sisson, A. J., Allen, T. W., Anderson-Onofre, K. F., Aoun, M., Bergstrom, G. C., Bissonnette, K. M., Bowen, K. L., Bradley, C. A., Burrows, M. E., Byamukama, E., Chilvers, M. I., Collins, A. A., Cowger, C., De Wolf, E. D., Dill-Macky, R., Esker, P. D., Faske, T. R., Hunger, R. M., Kelly, H. M., Kleczewski, N. M., Koehler, A. M., Langston, D. B., Marshall, J. M., Martinez-Espinoza, A. D., McKelvey, U., Mehl, H. L., Meyer, R. F., Obasa, K., Padgett, G. B., Paul, P. A., Price, P. P., Smith, D. L., Telenko, D. E. P., Tenuta, A. U., Wegulo, S. N., and Wiersma, J. J. 2025. Wheat yield reduction and economic loss caused by plant disease from 2018 through 2021. Plant Health Progress. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHP-09-24-0087-RS.
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Butts, T.R., Fritz, B.K., Davis, J.A., Spurlock, T.N. (2024). Spray coverage and deposits from a remotely piloted aerial application system using various nozzle types. Frontiers in Agronomy. 6:1493799. DOI: 10.3389/fagro.2024.1493799.
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Avent, T., Norsworthy, J.K., Patzoldt, W.L., Schwartz-Lazaro, L.M., Houston, M.M., Butts, T.R., Vazquez, A.R. (2024). Comparing residual application methods with See & Spray" in soybean. Weed Technology. 38:e74. DOI: 10.1017/wet.2024.70.
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Kouame, K.B.J., Butts, T.R., Norsworthy, J.K., Davis, J.A., Piveta, L.B. (2024). Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats.) control affected by weed size and herbicide spray solution with nozzle type pairings. Weed Technology. 38:e17. DOI: 10.1017/wet.2023.92.
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2025 Citation: Ye, Z., C. DiFonzo, D. Hennessy, J. Zhao, F. Wu, S. Conley, A.Gassmann, E. Hodgson, B. Jensen, J. Knodel, B. McManus, L. Meinke, A. Michel, B. Potter, N. Seiter, J. L. Smith, J.L. Spencer, K.J. Tilmon, R.J. Wright and C.H. Krupke. 2025. Too much of a good thing: Lessons from compromised rootworm Bt maize in the US Corn Belt. Science. 387: 984 989.DOI:10.1126/science.adm7634
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2025 Citation: Long, E. Y. and M. A. Johnston. 2025. Notes and new records for parasitoids of exotic drosophilids in Indiana, USA (Hymenoptera: Figitidae and Braconidae). The Great Lakes Entomologist 57(2), https://doi.org/10.22543/0090-0222.2499
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Keng-Lou, J.H. P, Ternest, J.J. UG, Wood, T.J. P, Ingwell, L.L., Bloom, E.H. P, Szendrei, Z., Kaplan, I., and K. Goodell. 2024. Plant versus pollinator protection: balancing pest management against floral contamination for insecticide use in Midwestern US cucurbits, Journal of Economic Entomology, toae202, https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toae202
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Sturr, C., D. Richmond, and E. Y. Long. 2024. Evaluating sampling techniques for quantifying Asiatic garden beetle (Maladera formosae) infestations in commercial mint. Journal of Economic Entomology, https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toae204
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Macleod, G.R., D.S. Richmond and T.R. Filley. 2024. Invasive Japanese beetle larvae (Popillia japonica Newman) alter structure and carbon distribution in infested surface soil. Science of the Total Environment 918: 170687. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170687.
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2025 Citation: Ryals, D. K.**, Buschkoetter, A. C.*, Krispn Given, J. & Harpur, B. A. (2025). Individual and social heterosis act independently in honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies. J. Hered. doi:10.1093/jhered/esae043
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Kernen, H. G**., Jean, R. P., Harpur, B. A., Buck, J. & Noseworthy, J. New records of two adventive bee species in Indiana (Hymenoptera: Colletidae; Megachilidae). Great Lakes Entomol. doi: 10.22543/0090-0222.2485s
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Coelho, P. B., Fitzgerald, G., Isaacson, K., Diop, R., Prabhakar, G., Heffner, S., Verma, A., Youngblood, J. P., Choi, Y. J., Surdyka, S., Spears, S. A., Frisbee, M. D., Del Real, K. R., Gustafson, L. A., N��ez-Torres, A. M., Proctor, C. R., Lee, L. S., Whitehead, H. D., Doudrick, K., Harpur, B. A. & Whelton, A. J. (2024). Environmental and private property contamination following the Norfolk Southern chemical spill and chemical fires in Ohio. Environ. Sci. (Camb.) doi:10.1039/D4EW00456F
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2024 Citation: Taylor, B. A. ", Tembrock, L. R., Sankovitz, M., Wilson, T. M., Looney, C., Takahashi, J., Gilligan, T. M., Smith-Pardo, A. H. & Harpur, B. A. (2024). Population genomics of the invasive Northern Giant Hornet Vespa mandarinia in North America and across its native range. Sci. Rep. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-61534-0
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Gilchrist, I. R.*, Nixon, J. M., Shultz, R. R., Ginzel, M. D. & Harpur, B. A. (2024). To house or oust: Honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies can evaluate and evict drones of low quality. Behav. Ecol. Sociobiol. doi:10.1007/s00265-024-03461-8
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Shultz, R. R.**, Carey, A*., Ragheb, K. E., Robinson, J. P. & Harpur, B. A. (2024). On the distribution and diversity of tissue-specific somatic mutations in honey bee (Apis mellifera) drones. Insectes Soc. doi:10.1007/s00040-024-00948-5
  • Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: B�chler, R., Andonov, S., Bernstein, R., Bienefeld, K., Costa, C., Du, M., Gabel, M., Given, K., Hatjina, F., Harpur, B. A., Hoppe, A., Kezic, N., Kova?i?, M., Kryger, P., Mondet, F., Spivak, M., Uzunov, A., Wegener, J. & Wilde, J. (2024) Standard methods for rearing and selection of Apis mellifera queens 2.0. J. Apic. Res. 157 doi:10.1080/00218839.2023.2295180