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

Outputs
Target Audience: Agricultural stakeholders including producers, crop consultants, and scouts Graduate and undergraduate students Extension agents Pest management professionals and state sanitarians Home gardeners and homeowners Nursery operators Green industry professionals Master gardeners Citizen scientists Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The projects under this grant have provided a variety of valuable training and professional development opportunities for students and early-career professionals. Graduate students played a central role in developing the BugBiz fact sheet series, receiving mentorship in science communication, technical writing, and public engagement. Students enrolled in ENTM 4006,Fundamentals of Applied Entomology, further enhanced their applied learning experience by producing extension videos and fact sheets, building skills in educational content creation and outreach. Additionally, one research associate and one PhD student participated in video production and presented their work at professional society meetings, gaining experience in both media development and scientific communication. Students involved in herbicide screening, insect and disease monitoring, plant health diagnostics, and nematode identification projects were trained in the use of new tools and techniques, expanding their technical expertise and practical knowledge in applied agricultural sciences. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The dissemination of research results and educational resources has been strategically designed to reach intended audience, with a strong emphasis on accessibility andengagement. Part of this effort is the BugBiz fact sheet series, which serves as a bridge between academic research and public interest. By involving graduate students as lead authors, the initiative not only enhances student training in science communication but also ensures that complex entomological information is translated into clear, engaging content for the general public. These fact sheets, along with updated pest management guides, have been made available in accessible digital formats, including ADA-compliant versions, to ensure usability across a wide range of audiences. To further extend the reach of this project, a variety of outreach activities have been implemented. These include hands-on training sessions, workshops, and field days that bring research directly to producers and community members. These events are designed to be interactive and practical, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to identify pests, manage crop threats, and apply IPM strategies effectively. Educational materials, such as insect identification guides and factsheets, are distributed during these events to reinforce learning and provide ongoing reference tools. Digital media has also played a significant role in dissemination efforts. Videos, radio interviews, and webinars have been produced to address timely topics such as stink bug management and termite identification. These formats allow for broader outreach, particularly to individuals who may not attend in-person events. For example, the North American Termite Survey webinar successfully engaged participants from multiple states and countries, demonstrating the potential of virtual platforms to expand the reach of extension programming. In addition, diagnostic services offered by the LSU AgCenter Plant Diagnostic Center provide a direct line of support to growers, gardeners, and extension agents. Through sample analysis, site visits, and phone consultations, the center helps stakeholders address plant health issues. Educational seminars complement these services by offering in-depth training on disease and pest management. Specialized programs, such as the Pollinator Mini-Series and the Herbicide Resistance Screening Program, have been developed to address emerging issues and promote sustainable practices. These initiatives not only inform but also inspire behavioral change, encouraging participants to adopt environmentally responsible approaches in their own communities. Overall, the dissemination strategy integrates traditional extension methods with innovative digital tools and inclusive educational practices What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?1. Increase the Impact of IPM Research and Extension via Novel Delivery Methods For the "Common Arthropods of Louisiana" project, we will continue developing species profiles, building on the 80 drafts already completed. Our focus will be on expanding the database to include more agriculturally and urban-relevant arthropods, with detailed information on identification, life history, and management. This effort supports our long-term objective of documenting approximately 1,000 species. Concurrently, we will finalize updates to the pest management guide and complete the transition of its content to a new digital platform. This will enhance accessibility and support future web-based integration. We also plan to launch a one-day, in-person statewide Integrated Pest Management (IPM) School to provide intensive training for extension agents. In addition, we will offer pest management seminars throughout the crop season and expand educational efforts focusing on insect, weed, and disease identification and management across major agronomic and specialty crops. To further support outreach, we will complete and submit the 30 in-progress articles in the BugBiz fact sheet series. Graduate students will remain actively involved in this process. Finally, we will conduct insect scout schools in two. We also aim to broaden the distribution of IPM fact sheets and other outreach materials, ensuring timely and effective delivery of pest management resources to a diverse range of stakeholders. These efforts collectively support our mission to enhance pest management education and resources across Louisiana. 2. Improve Resistance Monitoring and Management of Invasive Pests by Supporting New IPM Initiatives We will increase distribution of redbanded stink bug (RBSB) resistance testing. Preliminary findings will be presented at the production and consultant meetings, as well as through educational videos. To further support stakeholder education, we willc reate five new videos focused on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for stink bugs. We will continue to collect and analyze plant samples from Louisiana nursery production sites and retail locations to detect the presence ofMeloidogyne enterolobii. We will also attend relevant field days to promote awareness and encourage the adoption of IPM strategies for managing this pest. Additionally, we will develop and distribute updated educational materials tailored to nursery production systems. In the area of weed management, we have planned a statewide training session for ANR Extension Agents focused on weed identification and herbicide symptomology. We will host the Acadia Parish Field Day, where participants will hear from multiple extension specialists and participate in a rolling plot tour showcasing current weed management research trials. Our team will continue on-farm visits to provide growers with personalized recommendations, particularly for managing herbicide-resistant weed populations. To further support herbicide resistance monitoring, we will screen additional suspected resistant weed populations. Finally, we will continue monitoring fungicide-resistant soybean pathogens at research stations and use Year 1 findings to update management recommendations. These updates will be shared through extension publications and presentations at field days and industry meetings. We will also evaluate bollworm resistance to Bt traits in research station trials and disseminate Year 1 resistance trends and management strategies through extension meetings and publications to support informed decision-making among stakeholders. 3. Support for LSU AgCenter Plant Diagnostic Center We will continue to provide comprehensive plant diagnostic services and conduct site visits to support plant health across Louisiana. This will involve processing both physical and digital samples, performing field assessments, and delivering science-based best management practices tailored to the specific plant health issues we encounter. These efforts will help address a wide range of concerns affecting growers, landscapers, and homeowners, ultimately improving plant health statewide. In addition, we will deliver extension seminars and contribute to regional integrated pest management (IPM) publications to share updated recommendations and insights from Year 1. We also plan to participate in field days, garden shows, and professional conferences to disseminate our findings, engage with stakeholders, and promote the adoption of effective, research-based plant health strategies. 4. Improve Pest Control Practices in Louisiana's Housing Communities by Enhancing Training of Pest Management Professionals and Other End-Users We plan to expand our support for the pest management community by developing additional recorded trainings that address current and emerging needs. These trainings will be designed to provide accessible, high-quality education on key pest management topics. We will also continue to host in-person training events across the state, focusing on insect-related concerns relevant to our stakeholders. One such event is already scheduled for late September and will cover termite identification, management, and inspection techniques. This session will include practical, hands-on training where participants will measure foundation areas and calculate the appropriate amount of termiticide needed for treatment. In addition to training, we will prioritize finalizing and publishing several documents that were drafted in Year 1 but not yet released. Making these publications available to end-users will be a key focus in Year 2. We will also complete additional product efficacy trials for cockroaches and bed bugs, and begin testing new products targeting other invasive urban pests, such as Tawny crazy ants. Findings from these trials will be disseminated through extension publications and incorporated into future training sessions. Another major goal for the upcoming year is to publish the behavioral changes and knowledge gains observed through pre- and post-training assessments. While we have successfully collected this data, we have not yet shared the results with the broader scientific community. In Year 2, we will actively work to analyze and submit these findings for publication, contributing to the evidence base for effective pest management education. 5. Improve Training Resources for Pesticide Applicators Certification Programs We plan to complete the revision of the agricultural pest manual by finalizing updates in collaboration with subject matter specialists. This will ensure the manual reflects the most current best practices and is fully aligned with the needs of pesticide applicator certification programs. In addition, we will continue developing the sprayer drone safety manual. This includes finalizing a series of instructional videos that demonstrate safe operation practices. These materials will support the growing use of drone technology in agriculture by promoting safety, compliance, and effective application techniques.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? 1. Increase the Impact of IPM Research and Extension via Novel Delivery Methods Since its revival in 2018, theBugBizfact sheet series has published over 150 articles on insect species, with graduate students serving as lead authors on most--a model that enhances both student training and public outreach. In the past year, 14 new fact sheets were submitted, with 5 published and 9 in final proof production, while 30 more are nearing submission. This initiative not only strengthens students' scientific communication skills but also meets a growing public demand for information. Six Insect Pest Management Guides (Field Crops, Fruits and Nuts, Household, Livestock, Vegetable, and Trees), Weed Management Guide for Agronomic Crops, and Plant Disease Management Guide were updated and are available online. These resources are formatted to meet ADA compliance requirements ensuring usability for all audiences. In addition, the IT team developed a custom platform designed to encode and structure information from traditional book guides into a digital format. This foundational work enables seamless integration into web-based tools. The field crops insect identification training significantly improved pest management knowledge among Northeast Louisiana Extension Agents, as confirmed by post-survey results. Participants gained practical skills in identifying key pests such as stink bugs and lepidopteran worms and understanding crop damage symptoms. The training also covered emerging pest issues and equipped agents with updated tools to better support producers across the region. Two IPM factsheets (fall armyworm and bermudagrass maggot) were distributed on cattle and forage field days (70+ participants). Soybean and Cotton Insect Pest Identification Guides are completed and are available for distribution. 2. Improve Resistance Monitoring and Management of Invasive Pests by Supporting New IPM Initiatives To address frequently asked questions about stink bug management in soybean, we took a multi-pronged approach to activities. To transfer information and answer producer, consultant, and researcher questions, we presented at professional and extension meetings. In addition, we created two videos at the end of last growing season and two radio interviews. Finally, ENTM 4006 Fundamentals of Applied Entomology was taught in spring 2025. Twelve students took the course and made four extension videos, and eight fact sheets related to field crop pest problems. A total of 301 plant samples were collected from 139 nurseries and 20 retailers, representing a wide variety of ornamental pants such as shrubs, trees, grasses, succulents, and annuals. Analysis revealed the presence of root-knot nematodes in seven samples. Molecular identification confirmed six isolates as the Southern root-knot nematode, while one isolate is undergoing further species-level identification. This work significantly enhanced the project team's understanding of invasive nematode threats and potential dissemination pathways. To extend the impact, educational resources on Meloidogyne spp. identification and management were provided at the 2024 LSU AgCenter Winter Vegetable Garden Field Day in St. Gabriel, Louisiana, reaching 54 participants. This outreach effort increased awareness among industry professionals and citizens, promoting greater use of IPM strategies and extension resources. As a result, both the project team and stakeholders are better equipped to recognize and respond to invasive nematode threats. Through the newly established Herbicide Resistance Screening Program, the team confirmed multiple cases of herbicide-resistant weeds, including barnyardgrass and goosegrass populations exhibiting resistance to glyphosate. Fortunately, these populations remained susceptible to alternative. Additionally, a rice flatsedge population was identified as resistant to halosulfuron but could be effectively managed using residual herbicides. The weed science team ensured that this vital information reached stakeholders across Louisiana, enabling them to make informed decisions, avoid ineffective herbicide applications, and minimize crop yield losses. 3. Support for LSU AgCenter Plant Diagnostic Center The LSU AgCenter Plant Diagnostic Center plays a crucial role in supporting by offering diagnostic services for both physical and digital plant samples. These services are accessible to extension agents, commercial growers, and home gardeners. Over the past year, the center diagnosed more than 500 physical and 220 digital plant samples submitted by Louisiana residents and LSU AgCenter personnel. It also processed 350 sudden oak death cases and 120 instances of citrus greening and citrus canker. The center conducted 34 site visits to growers' fields and home gardens and responded to 152 phone inquiries. Furthermore, 20 extension seminars were delivered to 641 participants, including Master Gardeners, Ornamental and Turfgrass Specialists, and Green Industry Professionals, emphasizing plant health issues and integrated management practices. These efforts underscore the center's commitment to safeguarding Louisiana's horticultural industry through proactive plant health education. 4. Improve Pest Control Practices in Louisiana's Housing Communities by Enhancing Training of Pest Management Professionals and Other End-Users The North American Termite Survey (NATS) webinar successfully trained over 1,000 participants including pest management professionals, extension agents, and citizen scientists from 12 U.S. states and three countries. The program covered rodent and bed bug management, pesticide safety, and termite biology, identification, and inspection techniques. The webinar achieved a 64% response rates, revealing a 14% increase in knowledge and a 13.5% boost in confidence in identification. These measurable gains indicate improved capacity among attendees to identify termite species and distinguish between native and invasive types. The Pollinator Mini-Series was developed to educate Louisiana residents including homeowners, master gardeners, pest control operators, and the general public. The first event, held at LaHouse (a sustainable, storm-resistant facility), focused on increasing awareness of pollinator-friendly gardening, safe mosquito control practices, and the identification of beneficial and harmful insects. 92% of attendees recognized the importance of avoiding insecticide use during pollinator activity. Many expressed increased willingness to engage, and one attendee remarked they would attend every weekend if possible. The LSU AgCenter's Parish Agent Identification Training Workshop successfully enhanced the insect identification and collection skills of 10 parish extension agents. The workshop focused on foundational training in insect morphology, collection, and preservation. Participants demonstrated significant knowledge gains, including a 60% improvement in distinguishing ants from other insects, a 41% increase in bed bug identification accuracy, and a 40% improvement in understanding insect leg anatomy. The program not only improved immediate diagnostic capabilities but also laid the groundwork for scalable, replicable identification training model. 5. Improve Training Resources for Pesticide Applicators Certification Programs Progress continues on the revision of the agricultural pest manual. Subject matter specialists in weed science, plant pathology, and entomology have been engaged to review and update relevant sections, ensuring the manual reflects current best practices and scientific knowledge In addition, progress on the development of the sprayer drone manual and instructional videos is ongoing, though currently slowed by evolving regulatory requirements. Despite these challenges, video production focused on drone safety practices is actively underway, and content development will continue to adapt as regulations become clearer.

Publications