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News Archive 2000-2003

News Archive - Past Announcements from our Home Page
News from 2004-2010

New Public Service Announcement on Eliminating Rodent Infestations Available Online
January 25, 2010. A new video public service announcement created by the US EPA and students from Howard University provides information on how to prevent rats and mice from infesting homes.  By showing all the "amenities" that attract rodents into homes, the video educates viewers on how to prevent infestations in the first place and, as a result, eliminate the need to use pesticides for rodent control. More.

Request for Applications Now Available for National Institute of Food and Agriculture Grants
January 25, 2010. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture has released the 2010 Request for Applications for the IPM: Crops at Risk, Risk Avoidance and Mitigation, and Methyl Bromide Transitions Competitive Grants Programs.  These IPM programs are designed to support integrated, multidisciplinary agricultural research, extension, and education activities that address complex pest management priorities in US agriculture. More.

American Samoa Community College Seeks Researcher in Plant Pathology
January 20, 2010. This position includes planning, conducting, analyzing and publishing plant pathology research, approved by a merit review panel, that focuses on an integrated approach to protect sustainable production of tropical crops. Visit our Employment page for more information.

Entomological Society of America Seeks Submissions for Journal of Pest Management
January 20, 2010. The Entomological Society of America in collaboration with the North Central IPM Center's Extension Entomologist Working Group is pleased to invite individuals to submit papers to the new on-line publication, the Journal of Integrated Pest Management. Journal of Integrated Pest Management is a new, open-access, peer-reviewed, extension journal covering the field of integrated pest management. More.

EPA Seeks Applications for Environmental Community Grants
January 4, 2010. EPA is making $2 million available in 2010 to reduce pollution at the local level through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program. Applications for the CARE grants are due March 9, 2010. EPA will conduct webcasts to answer questions about the application process on Feb. 2, 23, and 26. More.

December 2009 North Central IPM Center Newsletter Now Available
December 22, 2009. The December 2009 issue of the North Central IPM Center Connection newsletter is now available online. Topics include working group updates, EPA actions and new resources. More.

2010 National Conference on Urban Entomology to be Held in Portland, OR
December 22, 2009. The National Conference on Urban Entomology will be held in Portland, OR on May 16-18, 2010. The conference will emphasize innovation and research on household, structural and public health arthropod
pests. The deadline for student scholarship applications is January 15. More.

USDA Seeks Director of Office of Pest Management Policy
December 16, 2009. The Director of the Office of Pest Management Policy has overall responsibilities for integration, coordination, and communication of the Department of Agriculture's pest management activities and policies. Please visit our Employment page for more information.

Request for Applications Now Available for 2010 IPM Enhancement Grant
December 16, 2009. The Southern Region IPM Center has released the 2010 IPM Enhancement Grant RFA. This RFA solicits proposals for projects that will enhance the development and implementation of IPM in the southern region of the United States. More.

Ecological Pest Management Conference to be Held in California
December 16, 2009. The Association of Applied IPM Ecologists will be holding an Ecological Pest Management Conference in Napa, California, January 31-February 2 2010. Keynote speakers are Pamela Ronald and R. W. Adamchak, authors of "Tomorrow's Table: Organic farming, Genetics and the Future of Food". More.

R Dana Pest Control's "Dana Green" Service is Now Green Shield Certified
December 14 , 2009. Residents of New York now have another option for green pest management services-"Dana Green." R Dana Pest Control underwent a rigorous, on-site evaluation that examined 63 separate aspects of their pest control service to achieve this accreditation. More.

Maryland Pesticide Network and Beyond Pesticides Seek Project Consultant
December 10, 2009. The Maryland Pesticide Network and national project partner organization Beyond Pesticides are seeking a project consultant for the IPM in Health Care Facilities and Community Outreach Project. The project consultant will work with Maryland health care facilities and local government agencies and community groups to encourage and facilitate transition to pesticide-free environments. Visit our Employment page for more information.

Pollinator Conference to be Held at Penn State
December 10, 2009. Penn State's Center for Pollinator Research will be hosting the first International Conference on Pollinator Biology, Heath and Policy from July 24-28, 2010. The conference will include symposia on behavioral ecology, disease ecology, impacts of environmental toxins, policy and public outreach, conservation, updates on international honey bee population declines and poster sessions. More.

US Geological Survey Seeks Senior Science Advisor for Water Quality
December 7, 2009. The Senior Science Advisor for Water Quality serves as the senior USGS water quality specialist with responsibility for providing policy-level advice to the Director and the Associate Director for Water, in addition to other duties. Visit our Employment page for more information.

Organic Land Care Courses to be Held by the Northeast Organic Farming Association
December 7, 2009. The 10th Annual NOFA Course in Organic Land Care will be held in January and February 2010 in locations across the Northeastern US. This five-day comprehensive course covers a wide range of material, including site analysis, soil health, rain gardens, mulches and invasive plants. More.

School IPM Article Published in Pest Control Technology Magazine
December 7, 2009. The November issue of Pest Control Technology Magazine included an article about cooperation between pest management providers and school employees when implementing school IPM. More.

University of Georgia Seeks Public Service Representative
November 23, 2009. This faculty position will be responsible for implementing a research program and conducting research on the impact of climate variability and climate change on agriculture and natural resources. Visit our Employment page for more information.

Graduate Assistantships Available at Iowa State University and Purdue University
November 23, 2009. Please visit our Employment page for more information on opportunities for Entomology graduate students at Iowa State University and Purdue University.

Winners Announced for Childcare and School IPM Recognition Awards
November 19, 2009. The award winners for the 2009-2010 Childcare and School IPM Awards have been announced. For a complete listing of honorees, please visit our website.

Spring Workshop on Natural and IPM Approach to Lawn and Landscape Care
March 20, 2009.  Landscape professionals and municipal employees interested in staying ahead of the "going green" curve by using fewer or no chemicals in their landscapes and parks can learn invaluable tools at the upcoming "Natural and IPM Approach to Lawn and Landscape Care" workshop, April 8-9, 2009 in Madison, WI. The workshop is specially geared toward lawn and landscape professionals, county and municipal park maintenance teams, golf course lawn care professionals, Master Gardeners, and more; homeowners are welcome to attend as well. Registration form here. View the flier. More.

Workshop on IPM in Pennsylvania Schools
March 10, 2009.  Pittsburgh Public Schools, an IPM STAR certified school system, will host a workshop on IPM
in schools April 9, 2009. School district administrators, facilities managers, food service directors, environmental saftey directors and other school staff should attend to learn how to design and begin an IPM program. The workshop is free and pesticide re-certification credits have been applied for. More.

University of Alaska Seeks Invasive Plants Instructor
February 16, 2009  This non-tenure track faculty position is located in Anchorage and serves as a liaison between UAF Cooperative Extension Service and U.S. Forest Service for the purpose of support, development and delivery of an Alaskan statewide IPM invasive plant species management program. Applications due March 3, 2009. More.

Earn Continuing Education Credits at the IPM Symposium!
February 11, 2009  American Society of Agronomy Certified Crop Advisors (CCA’s) can receive Continued Education Unit credits at the 6th International IPM Symposium held March 24-26, 2009
in Portland, Oregon. Over 40 sessions are available for credit, with topics ranging from innovative food programs to mineral nutrient management, region-wide pest management to new technologies and tools for whole-farm planning. American Society of Agronomy CCA’s from all 50 states are qualified for receiving credits for eligible sessions.

IPM Symposium: School IPM-Related Sessions
February 4, 2009  IPM professionals attending the Sixth International IPM Symposium, March 24-26, 2009, have the opportunity to attend many sessions on school IPM. Topics include implementing school IPM at the multi-state, statewide and district-wide level, a hands-on introduction to the IPM tool eXtension, a cost-benefit case for school IPM and international school IPM programs.

National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) Newsletter Available
January 28, 2009  The January 2009 edition of the NPDN's newsletter includes information on first detector training courses, online training for the NPDN national database and a diagnostic tip of the month. Read the newsletter here. (PDF) See old NPDN newsletters here.

Fruit Extension Educator Needed at Michigan State University
January 23, 2009  Michigan State University Extension in Berrien county is looking for the right individual to plan and implement effective educational programs that focus on strengthening profitability in commercial horticulture with emphasis on fruit crops, especially wine grapes. Applications due February 20, 2009. More.

Sponsorship/Exhibit Opportunities Available for Sixth International IPM Symposium
January 19, 2009  More than seven hundred IPM professionals are expected at the Sixth International IPM Symposium, March 24-26, 2009 in Portland, OR.  Exhibit space is available on a first-come, first-served basis for those interested in reaching this audience. Exhibitors, agency sponsors and industry contributors will be identified in the Symposium program, signage at the event and on the Symposium website.  More (PDF). 

PESTEC Honored with 2008 IPM Innovator Award
January 16, 2009  The California Department of Pesticide Regulation will honor PESTEC, a Green Shield Certified company, with a 2008 IPM Innovator Award. The award, which will be presented January 22, 2009 in Sacramento, CA, acknowledges PESTEC's IPM leadership. More.

Organic Land Care Five-Day Course
January 9, 2009  The Northeast Organic Farming Association is holding its eigth annual 30-hour accreditation course for professionals that provides the education needed for an understanding of organic land care design and maintenance. The five-day course will be held in four different Northeast states during January and February 2009. More.

A Charge to Implement IPM in All US Schools by 2015
January 7, 2009  Leaders in school administration, school health, concerned parents, IPM professionals and other interested individuals are needed to help increase awareness and generate a commitment to school IPM. A Strategic Plan to implement IPM in all US schools by 2015, released today, assesses the current status, compiles best practices and sets out a plan of action to accomplish this goal. More.

Free Webinar Series on Implementing IPM
December 12, 2008  The New England Asthma Regional Council, the Boston Public Health Commission and the Boston Housing Authority are collaborating on a three-part webinar series on IPM. The information in the webinars applies mainly to Housing Authorities and landlords interested in implementing IPM in affordable housing. The first webinar in the series takes place January 22, 2009. More.

Donella Meadows Fellowship Applications Now Accepted
December 11, 2008  The Sustainability Institute is looking to award twenty influential mid-career environmental and social leaders with the opportunity to participate in a series of four workshops and receive personal coaching. Prospective Fellows should have a deep desire to shift the world to global sustainability, among other traits. Applications due December 31, 2008. More.

Postdoctoral Position Open at University of Florida
December 4, 2008  A two-year funded postdoctoral position is currently available to evaluate biological control for the management of whiteflies in greenhouse grown tomatoes. Position goals include determining and demonstrating the efficacy of IPM and biological control on greenhouse tomatoes. More. (PDF)

Pennsylvania IPM Newsletter Available
December 3, 2008  The Fall 2008 edition of the Pennsylvania IPM Program's newsletter includes information on stink bugs, honey bee research, and a new pest forecasting network. The newsletter also announces a new bed bug publication and new invasive plants brochure. Read the newsletter here. (PDF)

Michigan State University Seeks Fruit Extension Educator 
November 10, 2008  A leader is needed to plan and develop educational programs in commercial horticulture with emphasis on fruit crops, especially wine grapes, for Michigan State University Extension. The right candidate has at least three years of Extension experience, a Master's degree related to horticulture, and experience in viticulture, IPM and/or entomology. Applications due December 14, 2008. More.  

Stormwater Management Assistant Professor Needed 
November 5, 2008  Oklahoma State University is looking for a candidate interested in both a faculty and Extension position in stormwater management. The goal of this position is to establish a nationally recognized research and extension program to address water quality/quantity topics associated with changing land use in the state and region, including stormwater runoff control, erosion and sediment control, mitigation of off-site impacts, and floodplain management. Applications due January 9, 2009. More. (PDF)

"Black Widow...Goes Green" Service Awarded Green Shield Certification 
November 3, 2008  Black Widow Termite & Pest Control is the eighth provider in New York to achieve Green Shield Certification for one of its services. This certification ensures that if consumers choose the "Black Widow Goes Green" service, that IPM practices will be followed. More. 

Poster Abstracts Now Accepted for Sixth International IPM Symposium  
October 29, 2008  IPM professionals are encouraged to submit poster abstracts for the upcoming Sixth International IPM Symposium. This is a great way to communicate your IPM work with hundreds of colleagues. Poster topics include global IPM, agricultural and urban IPM systems, IPM in natural areas, IPM strategies, and much more. Poster abstracts must be submitted online by January 5, 2009. 

Green Shield Certification Awarded to Bullfrog Pest Management's New Service October 23, 2008  Bullfrog Pest Management has earned Green Shield Certification for its new "Bullfrog Green" service. Residents in Long Island, NY now have the option to choose this service, which ensures a preventative approach to pest management. More.

Urban IPM Conference 
October 21, 2008  The San Francisco Department of Environment will host their next urban IPM conference on January 28, 2009. This is a chance for IPM professionals to learn more about invasive species, pollinators and much more. More. 

2008 Volume of Plant Disease Management Reports Released
October 15, 2008  The Plant Management Network's online resource, the Plant Disease Management Reports, has been updated for 2008. This year's collection of 560 searchable reports help growers, consultants, pesticide applicators, and extension specialists stay up-to-date with the latest in disease management information. More.

IPM Training Course for Property Managers Available  
October 13, 2008 Property managers of multi-family housing now have a one-day training resource available to them. The Northeast Regional IPM Center, along with many partners, has created and refined this course to help implement comprehensive IPM programs into public and section 8 housing. More. 

Nominations Now Accepted for Friends of Southern IPM Awards 
October 8, 2008 The Southern Region IPM Center's award program- "Friends of Southern IPM" - recognizes extraordinary achievement in research, Extension and implementation of IPM in the Southern Region of the US. Nominations for these awards are due November 21, 2008. Each winner will have access to funds to support further work on which the award is based. More.  

Ehrlich Branch Offers Green Shield Certified Service 
October 7, 2008 The Ehrlich branch in Albany, NY has passed a rigorous evaluation to achieve Green Shield Certification for its "Ehrlich Green Program" service. This branch's strict protocol, which requires inspections first, helped them earn this third-party credential. Also, Ehrlich has a strong hiring and training regimen; after a 15-point hiring process, candidates must complete a 50-week training program where topics include basic safety to advanced IPM programs for specialty clients such as supermarkets. More. 

Express Pest Control Achieves Green Shield Certification 
October 6, 2008 Texans in the Dallas-Fort Worth area now have the option of choosing the new Express Green service, offered by Express Pest Control, ensuring less toxic pest control. Express Pest Control is committed to the principles of IPM and their certification proves that adherence to IPM. Green Shield Certification, a third-party credential, verifies company performance using a rigorous, on-site evaluation that examines 63 separate aspects of the pest control service. More. (PDF)  

USAG-Alaska Installations Achieve IPM STAR Certification
September 25, 2008 Child and Youth Services Programs at US Army Garrisons Forts Greely, Richardson and Wainwright have earned IPM STAR certification, demonstrating their commitment to the health and safety of children and staff. Read more in their IPM Profiles.

USAG-Hawaii Achieves IPM STAR Certification
September 25, 2008  USAG-Hawaii Child and Youth Services Program (CYS) has earned IPM STAR certification.  The award has been earned after an intensive evaluation and upgrading of practices and conditions at eleven facilities on US Army installations throughout the island of Oahu.

US Army Garrison Yongsan Child, Youth & School Services Programs Achieves IPM STAR Certification
September 25, 2008  USAG-Yongsan's Child and Youth Services program has earned IPM STAR certification. Their excellent IPM program protects the children of US troops from pest and pesticide hazards.  The award follows an on-site evaluation and extensive efforts to improve pest prevention including sanitation, maintenance and staff training. Read more in USAG Yongsan's IPM Profile.

IPM Contracting Tool Kit
September 22, 2008  A new resource is available for those looking to develop or improve a structural IPM program. EcoWise Certified has created a tool kit that covers many issues such as how to hire and work with a professional IPM service provider. More at EcoWise Certified. 

Free Workshops on Conducting First Detector Training
September 19, 2008  The National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) and the Regional IPM Centers have joined together to offer a distance education opportunity to teach individuals how to conduct first detector training. State IPM Coordinators, Land Grant University state and county extension specialists, NPDN diagnosticians, and others interested in conducting education sessions for invasive species education are encouraged to attend. The sessions are online/call-in, and pre-registration is required by October 7, 2008. The sessions will be held on October 14 and October 16, 2008. More. (PDF) 

USAG-Humphreys Achieves IPM STAR Certification
September 11, 2008  USAG-Humphreys (Korea) Child and Youth Services (CYS) has earned IPM STAR certification, recognizing their dedication to adhere to IPM standards. The garrison's IPM Committee meets quarterly to review and evaluate the IPM plan, ensuring that it is always up-to-date. This year to date, the installation has not made any pesticide applications in the CYS facilities. Instead, the focus has been on improving inspection, sanitation and exclusion to deny pests access to food, water and shelter. As a result, the number of pest complaints has gone down. Read more in USAG-Humphreys' IPM Profile.

USAG-Daegu Achieves IPM STAR Certification
September 11, 2008  The Child and Youth Services (CYS) program at USAG-Daegu (Korea) has earned IPM STAR certification. Mr. Yong-Chin An, the garrison's IPM Coordinator, along with Ms. Jeannie Pai, director of CYS, are committed to implementing IPM at USAG-Daegu's three CYS facilities, which serve about 500 students. All staff are trained in their IPM roles, including pest reporting and sanitation practices. They also share their expertise with other facilities. Read more in USAG-Daegu's IPM Profile.

Executive Director Needed for Environmental Organization 
September 9, 2008  The Northwest Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides (NCAP) is in search of an executive director. The right candidate will have significant fundraising and non-proft experience and will be able to take on multiple tasks. Applications due September 24, 2008. More.

Natural Lawn Care Courses Offered in Midwest 
September 3, 2008  The Safer Pest Control Project is offering three classes on natural lawn care: two for school groundskeepers/administrators and one for professional turf managers. The classes will be held October 1-3, 2008 in Illinois. More. 

Sixth International IPM Symposium Achievement Award Nominations Open 
August 28, 2008   Symposium organizers are now accepting nominations for the "International IPM Achievement Awards."  Individuals or teams who have made significant contributions including at least one extraordinary achievement that has increased IPM in agriculture, communities or natural areas may be nominated.  Criteria and applications are available at the Symposium website and are due November 17, 2008.  The event includes more than 60 sessions. More news.   

Green Shield Certification Awarded to Witt Pest Management's New Service 
August 27, 2008  Pittsburgh's oldest pest management company, Witt Pest Management, has earned Green Shield Certification for its new SmartPM-Green service. Witt Pest Management is the thirteenth company to achieve Green Shield Certification. Witt's sister divisions, Watch-Gard Systems and Dynatech, provide food safety and sanitation services as well as commercial contract cleaning services. Cleaning and maintenance are closely related to effective pest management; by reducing food and harborage sources for pests.  More.  

IR-4 Project Taking Nominations for National Recognition of Excellence Awards  
August 18, 2008  Professionals in the pest management industry are encouraged to nominate individuals for a National Recognition of Excellence Award. This award is given to someone associated with the IR-4 Project that has exceeded normal job performance and whose achievements have had a major impact on the program. The IR-4 Project gives specialty crop growers valuable pest management tools that support new EPA tolerances and labeled product uses. Nominations due September 18, 2008. More.  

Texas A&M University Seeks Extension Entomologist 
August 14, 2008  An entomologist with a strong background in vegetable and field crop IPM is needed at Texas A&M University early next summer. The position is located at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco, TX. For more information, please contact Carlos Bográn.

Save the Date: 2008 Sustainable Schools Summit 
August 12, 2008  The Center for Health, Environment and Justice is hosting a one-day Sustainable Schools Summit on October 3, 2008 in Washington DC. This event is an opportunity for professionals across various disciplines to share best practices, success stories and available tools and resources for 'greening' the nation's schools. More. 

Extension Water Resources Specialist Needed at Texas A&M University 
August 7, 2008  Texas A&M University is searching for an individual with research experience in water quality and/or water conservation with urban greenscape and/or agronomic crop and forage production systems to fill its Extension Water Resources Specialist position. Duties include field research, educational meetings and print communications. More employment opportunities. 

Food and Biomass Science Fellowship Available
August 6, 2008  The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is now accepting applications for a two-year, full-time Food and Biomass Science Fellow. The Fellow will join a cross-program effort at NRDC to advocate for sustainable policies, metrics, and practices across an array of policy and standard setting processes, seeking to protect our climate, land and water resources. Applications due August 31, 2008. More.  

Publications on Non-Herbicidal Weed Control Strategies Issued 
July 29, 2008  The Northwest Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides has made available four different publications on non-herbicidal weed control. The four publications cover hardscapes and 
fencelines, shrub beds and landscaped areas, tree wells and turf. The information was complied by interviewing 20 parks staff in eight cities throughout the Northwest. More. 

2008 National Schools Working Group Meeting 
July 23, 2008  Registration is now open for next meeting of the National Schools Working Group. In 2006 the working group set a goal for each school in the United States to transition to IPM practices by 2015. Anyone interested in working to achieve this goal is invited to attend this free meeting that will be held following the Entomological Society of America’s Annual Meeting (November 16-19, 2008). More. (PDF)

Plant Pathologist Needed at EPA 
July 21, 2008  The EPA Office of Pesticide Programs is looking to hire a full-time plant pathologist. The position is located in Virginia and applications will be accepted until August 6, 2008. Visit USA Jobs for more information; enter the announcement number HQOPPTS -DE-2008-0059 in the Keyword search field. 

Red Tomato Seeks Development Associate 
July 16, 2008  Red Tomato is looking to hire someone to support and manage its development office. Duties include maintaining donor database, writing newsletters and general correspondence and administration and oversight of key development office functions. Red Tomato is a nonprofit fair trade organization dedicated to strengthening New England family farmers, marketing their ecologically grown produce, and building a sustainable regional food system. More on our employment page.

Sixth Annual Conference on Children's Health and the Environment
July 15, 2008  Health care providers, public health professionals and the interested public are invited to attend this year's Conference on Children's Health and the Environment, September 18-19, 2008, in Philadelphia, PA. The Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit of Region 3 and the Mid-Atlantic Center for Children's Health and the Environment have organized this event. Continuing education credits are available to the target audience. More. 

Southeastern US has First Green Shield Certified Provider 
July 14, 2008  Peachtree Pest Control, a family-run business founded in 1976, has earned Green Shield Certification, the first provider in the Southeastern US to achieve this third-party credential. Customers in Georgia, northern Florida and southern South Carolina now have the option of choosing the new “Peachtree Green” service, ensuring less toxic pest control. Read the press release here. Visit the Green Shield Certified website. 

North Central States Pest Alert 
July 9, 2008  The North Central IPM Center has created a publication - a regional pest alert - addressing the plum pox virus. Plum pox affects all stone fruit; it distorts and discolors fruit, reduces yield and shortens tree life. Read the alert here. (PDF) 

Funds Available to Support IPM-Related Travel  
July 1, 2008  The Northeast Vegetable IPM Working Group has funds to help support northeastern growers, vegetable and/or strawberry specialists, Cooperative Extension educators or county agents, crop consultants, government agency staff, and agricultural professionals in nonprofit organizations with their travels. Through its Educator Exchange Program, the working group is helping professionals learn about and share IPM practices. Interested parties must submit an application by July 30, 2008 and travel must take place before September 1, 2008. More. (PDF) 

2008 Sustainable Ag Expo
June 30, 2008 Growers, consultants, resource professionals, Extension employees and vendors are all invited to this year's Sustainable Ag Expo, November 13-14, 2008, in Monterey, CA. The expo will feature crop specific and general seminars, promotions for sponsors and exhibitors, a trade show and an exhibitor showcase and wine reception to kick off the event. Continuing education credits are available for PCAs, PAs and CCAs. The Central Coast Vineyard Team is organizing the expo. More here or call 805-369-2288.

Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District Earns IPM STAR Certification
June 27, 2008 Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District has become the first district in Texas to earn IPM STAR certification. “The approach to healthy schools and classrooms at Carrollton – Farmers Branch is unique and one of the best we have seen,” reports Dr. Thomas Green, president of the IPM Institute, who conducted the evaluation. “IPM is fully integrated into the overall effort to create healthy schools…” See Carrollton-Farmers Branch's profile for more.

NRCS and IPM Workshops in Northeast  
June 25, 2008  IPM and NRCS professionals and interested growers are invited to attend a series of workshops given by the Northeastern IPM Center's Vegetable Working Group. These 
workshops emphasize the shared goals of NRCS conservation efforts and IPM practices. Also, the workshops provide growers an opportunity to learn about the economic benefits of NRCS and IPM practices. The workshops will be held this summer in Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. For a listing, see here.  

IR-4 Southern Region Field Coordinator Needed at University of Florida
June 23, 2008  The University of Florida is looking for a candidate who is able to interact with university staff and stakeholders to identify pest management voids for growers in the southern region and facilitate the submission of IR-4 Project Clearance Requests (PCR). This coordinator will also prepare grants and make decisions concerning general field operations and budgets including funding for research centers. Applications due July 20, 2008. More. 

Save the Date!
2008 National Schools Working Group Meeting - November 20, 2008
June 18, 2008  In 2006, the National Schools Working Group set a goal for each school in the nation to transition to IPM practices by 2015. In November, participants will establish the next steps to ensure that we are on track for the 2015 goal! See the brochure for more information.

Wells-Ogunquit Community School District Earns IPM STAR Certification
June 18, 2008 Wells-Ogunquit Community School District has earned IPM STAR certification after passing a rigorous 37-point inspection. The district shows many signs of a well managed organization in general. “Good overall management is key to effective pest management with a minimum of pesticide use,” according to Dr. Thomas Green. Read more in Wells-Ogunquit's IPM Profile.

Strategic Agricultural Initiative (SAI) Grants Available in EPA Region 3 
June 12, 2008  EPA Region 3 is now accepting proposals for Fiscal Year 2008. The SAI program supports grants for education, extension, demonstration, and field projects for the Food Quality Protection Act's transition away from high risk pesticides and reduced risk practices for pest management in agriculture. Proposals due July 3, 2008. More.

Organic Lawn and Turf Workshops, Article
June 9, 2008  Lawn and landscape professionals and interested homeowners in the Northeast are invited to attend a series of courses the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) is hosting in August. This year, the course offers a case study based on the organic conversion of athletic fields in two Connecticut towns. There are three dates and locations for the courses: August 14, 2008, in Hillsborough, NJ; August 19, 2008, at the University of Massachusetts; and August 21, 2008, in Manchester, CT. For more, please see NOFA's website.  Also, the May 2008 edition of Lawn & Landscape Magazine featured an article on organic lawn care. "A Growing Interest in Organics" starts on page 60. Read the article here. 

Bellevue School District Earns IPM STAR Certification
May 29, 2008 Bellevue School District has become the 27th in the nation and the fourth program in the state of Washington to earn IPM STAR certification. The district, serving more than 16,000 students in Northwestern Washington, manages pests primarily with pro-active, preventive practices rather than relying on pesticide applications. See Bellevue's IPM profile for more.

Safer Pest Control Project Seeks Program Associate
May 28, 2008 Safer Pest Control Project (SPCP), a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the health risks and environmental impacts of pesticides and promoting safer alternatives in Illinois, is looking for a full time Program Associate. The program associate will conduct workshops on IPM for a variety of audiences, help develop IPM policies and programs, and will supervise the creation of an online training module and survey tool. The position begins in July 2008. More. 

University of California Cooperative Extension Seeks Agriculture and Environmental Issues Advisor
May 13, 2008  The Agriculture and Natural Resources division of the University of California Cooperative Extension is seeking an advisor for the high desert areas of Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties.  The primary responsibility of the advisor will be to design, develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs for high desert growers and the public on crop production and related environmental issues.  Qualified candidates will have a Master's degree in an agricultural field, and a background in education and outreach. Applications due June 13, 2008.  For more, please visit our employment page.

Salt Lake City School District Earns IPM STAR Certification 
May 6, 2008 The Salt Lake City School District recently became the first district in the Rocky Mountain area to achieve IPM STAR certification. Pesticide applications and pest complaints have dropped by over 90% since the program began three years ago. Gregg Smith, Director of Facility Services and head of the district's IPM committee, says, “The IPM training we've put in place for our custodial, maintenance and food service staff has resulted in not only better pest awareness and control but cleaner, safer and healthier schools all around.” See Salt Lake City School District's profile for more.

Webinar on Bt Insect Resistance Management 
April 28, 2008   DTN Agriculture and the National Corn Growers Association is hosting a webinar on Friday, May 2, 2008 at 9:00 a.m. CDT to address the disconnect between the rise in Bt hybrid acreage and the drop in compliance with non-Bt refuge requirements. Extension professionals are encouraged to attend this online training session. For a list of presenters and more information,
please visit the DTN Agriculture website.  

Fort Stewart's Child Care Facilities Earn IPM STAR Certification  
April 9, 2008   The child and youth services program at Fort Stewart, GA recently became the ninth Army facility to achieve IPM STAR certification. This installation, which is one of the largest at 280,000 acres, manages to adhere to stringent IPM practices. All program staff are trained by the installation's entomologist, Captain Hee Kim, to know what should be considered a pest and what should not. See Fort Stewart's profile for more.

Bug Off Pest Control Center Presents Green Pest Management Summit 
April 3, 2008   Bug Off Pest Control Center is holding a Green Pest Management Summit on June 19, 2008 in New York City. The Summit will define what green pest management is from a science-based, industry-tested, common-sense point of view and will set the standards and criteria for green products and techniques. The goal of the Summit is two fold: to emphasize the role pest management providers play as protectors of health and the environment, as well as show how to use "green" to increase revenue. Read the announcement on the Bug Off Pest Control Center's website.

Eco-friendly Pest Control Products and Services in Demand  
April 2, 2008   Armed with detergent water, vacuum cleaners and caulk, green IPM practitioners across the country are protecting human environments while providing effective pest control. Clare Trapasso of the Associated Press wrote on April 2, 2008 that concerns for indoor air quality, children's health and the environment are fueling this change in consumer demand for IPM in pest control. "Amid a new wave of environmentalism, eco-savvy consumers are realizing they no longer need to rely on traditional pesticides, which may pose health risks, to combat rodents and insects," Trapasso reported. Read the full article.

Extension Educator Awarded for IPM Tactics on Grapes 
March 19, 2008   Andy Muza, an extension educator at Penn State, has devised a strategy to prevent grape berry moth infestation. For this accomplishment, and others, he will be honored the New York State IPM "Excellence in IPM" award later this month. Muza's protocol for the pest includes pheromones to disrupt mating, a growth regulator to prevent larvae from maturing and a beneficial wasp that lays its own eggs inside the moth's eggs. Even though this protocol is a work in progress, it's helped many growers reduce pesticide use. More.

Ag/Natural Resources Specialist Needed as Consultant in Afghanistan 
March 18, 2008   ACDI/VOCA, a nonprofit that promotes economic growth and the development of civil society in developing countries, is looking for a senior advisor in ag/natural resources with IPM expertise. The advisor will work on the Management for the Alternative Development Program/Northeast, a US AID-funded project in Afghanistan. Visit  our employment page for more.

Position for National Pollinator Outreach Coordinator Available 
March 27, 2008   The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, a nonprofit based in Portland, OR, is looking to hire an outreach coordinator who can train NRCS staff, land managers and other ag professionals on pollinator habitat management, creation, restoration and enhancement. The coordinator will also work to build the general public's awareness about native pollinators. Applications due April 18, 2008. More on our employment page. 

IPM Program Director Position Available  
March 14, 2008   The University of California- Davis seeks a proven leader to serve as director of the Statewide IPM Program. Some duties of this position include directing development and implementation of UC IPM program policies and procedures, overseeing competitive grants and IPM advisors and developing a teaching, research and extension program in a discipline-based academic home department. Applications due April 15, 2008. See more on our employment page. 

Conference on Pest Control Options in Affordable Housing 
March 11, 2008   The New England Asthma Regional Council, the Boston Public Health Commission and the Boston Housing Authority are sponsoring a two-day conference that will address issues that landlords and tenants of affordable housing face when it comes to pest management. The meeting, April 16-17, 2008 is open to the public and is free. More.

Governor Schwarzenegger Announces Appointments  
March 10, 2008   Luis Agurto, Sr., 57, of Antioch, CA, has been appointed to the California Structural Pest Control Board. Agurto has been a licensed pest control operator since 1986. Agurto's family-owned pest control business, PESTEC, was established in 1986, and in 2007 became Green Shield Certified by the IPM Institute. For more, visit PESTEC's website or go to Green Shield Certified.

Purdue University Seeks Field Crops Entomologist  
March 5, 2008   The Department of Entomology at Purdue University invites outstanding candidates in the field of insect pest management and ecology to apply for a 12-month, tenure-track, extension/applied research faculty position. The assistant professor will be expected to provide leadership in the development and implementation of innovative Extension IPM programs for economically important arthropods affecting field crops. Participation in the department's teaching program is also expected. Applications due April 15, 2008 or until a suitable candidate is found. More. 

Program Proposals Requested for Sixth International IPM Symposium    
February 7, 2008   The program committee for the Sixth International IPM Symposium is now accepting program proposals. Programs include mini-symposia, workshops, poster sessions, and brainstorming sessions. Session proposals must be submitted online by April 18, 2008.  This sixth international symposium will be held March 24–26, 2009 at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, OR.  More. (PDF) 

EPA Region 5 Re-Opens Request for Proposals for Strategic Agricultural Initiative Grants    
January 24, 2008   Programs that encourage farmers to implement IPM and resolve regional pest issues and/or air and water quality concerns through IPM, can submit proposals for EPA’s Strategic Agricultural Initiative grant.  The deadline for proposal submission has been extended to February 22, 2008. More. 

New Website Promotes Teaching IPM, Green Pest Control in Schools  
January 16, 2008   The new Junior Pest Investigators website, created by Orkin, is a resource for both teachers and school administrators.  Teachers can find free lesson plans and school administrators can learn about IPM in schools.  The lesson plans are for grades K-6. More.

Unique Workshop for Northeastern Agricultural Educators   
January 17, 2008   The New York State IPM Program at Cornell University is hosting a workshop on Tactical Agriculture (TAg.) TAg programs deliver locally adapted, season-long, in-field education to agricultural clientele. The workshop, February 14-15, 2008 in Albany, NY will give educators the chance to design their own experiential, hands-on training program for small groups of local farmers. More on TAg. For more on the workshop, contact Ken Wise or Julie Stavisky. 

Two Government Programs Announce Request for Applications 
January 7, 2008   The Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (CSREES) is now accepting applications for two of its grant programs- Crops at Risk (CAR) and Risk Avoidance and Mitigation (RAMP.) The CAR program helps create or enhance IPM practices for individual food or fiber crops grown for commercial purposes. The RAMP program helps develop and implement IPM strategies for multi-crop food and fiber production systems, or production systems on an area-wide or landscape scale. The application deadline for both programs is February 29, 2008. More on CAR applications. More on RAMP applications. 

Ecological Pest Management Conference 
January 4, 2008   The Association of Applied IPM Ecologists is holding their annual conference February 3-5, 2008 at Embassy Suites in San Luis Obispo, CA. Some of the topics to be covered
are risks of pesticide exposure, structural IPM, weed management, landscape IPM and new technologies. This year the conference features the option to participate in a wine tasting and auction to fund IPM scholarships. Agenda and registration available here. 

Two More Pest Management Providers' Services Become Green Shield Certified
January 3, 2008   Green Shield Certified recognizes Suburban Exterminating and Magic Exterminating, both of New York, for offering services that meet rigorous IPM standards. Learn more about Suburban and Magic's Green Shield Certified services, Suburban Green and Magic Green, here.

Strategic Agricultural Initiative Grants Available in EPA Region 8 
December 31, 2007   EPA Region 8 is now accepting proposals for Fiscal Year 2008. The Strategic Agriculture Initiative (SAI) grant program for this region has not changed and the process for applying is the same as last year. The SAI program prefers projects that address an array of commodities, focus on sustainable agriculture, incorporate conservation planning and have an outreach and extension component. Proposal deadline is January 18, 2008. More.

New York's "Father of IPM" Receives IPM Award 
December 10, 2007   The New York State IPM Program at Cornell University recently recognized Dr. James Tette for his work in creating New York's IPM program from scratch. The program is now one of the top in the nation thanks to Tette. A chemist by training, Tette created the pheromone lures and traps now used as key IPM tools. Tette was honored with Cornell's "Excellence in IPM Award." More. 

National Conference Call on Residential Pest Management's Impact on Environment December 4, 2007   The New York State Community IPM Program at Cornell University is hosting an open conference call concerning residential structural pest management's impact 
on water quality and other areas of the environment. The call will take place Wednesday, December 19, 2007 at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. You can participate by dialing 1 800-861- 4084, pass code 9978876#. For more, see our events page.

Two Positions Open at Northeastern IPM Center  
December 3, 2007   An extension support specialist and an administrative assistant are needed at the Northeastern IPM Center, which is part of Cornell University. The extension support specialist will work on a new project, teaching IPM to staff and residents in public housing. The administrative assistant will support the Center's co-director and staff. Both positions are half-time and applications for both are due December 7, 2007. More on our employment page.

Two Additional Facilities Achieve IPM STAR Certification   
November 29, 2007   Recently, the staff at both Fort Bragg Child Development and Youth Services Centers and New York City's Department of Education received acknowledgment of their dedication to adhere to IPM standards when both passed rigorous measures to become IPM STAR certified. Fort Bragg, the ninth Army installation to be certified, takes precautions such as using sticky cardboard traps to detect any insect activity in kitchens and food storerooms. New York City Public Schools, which serve more than one million students, make sure all staff, including administrators, teachers and food service, custodial and maintenance staff are trained on IPM. Read more about Fort Bragg. Read more about New York City's Dept. of Education. 

Funds Available to Northeast IPM Projects  
November 16, 2007   The Northeastern IPM Center is seeking applications from projects that will address or develop regional IPM priorities. IPM working groups, state network programs and those working on regional IPM publications and planning and assessment documents are encouraged to apply. Proposals are due December 7, 2007. More. 

Schools, Indoor Air Quality Firms Sought to Participate on American Lung Association Initiative   
November 15, 2007   The American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic has received the Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools grant. The purpose of the grant is to increase awareness of and to reduce the effects of poor indoor air quality in public and private schools in Delaware, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Schools that join the project will receive free walkthroughs and visual assessments of buildings and reports on these assessments, as well as free training. Indoor Air Quality firms will be paid for approved services and reimbursed for approved expenses. More.  

IPM Implementation Helps Growers Find Niche Market   
November 13, 2007   This month the Boston Globe reported Massachusetts' apple industry suffered the loss of 1,150 acres in a matter of five years due to financial hardships in keeping the land. One solution to increasing revenue these growers have found is to market their apples as locally grown "Eco Apples." Red Tomato, a non-profit committed
to acquiring fair prices and expanding market access for small businesses, has partnered with the IPM Institute to create the "Eco Apple" brand. The apples sold from these family-run farms must pass rigorous IPM standards. Read the Boston Globe article here.

IPM Institute Positions Open
October 25, 2007   Project manager and business manager to be hired for current and new projects.  More.

Open Conference Call on New York City's IPM Program  
October 15, 2007   Interested in how the largest city in the US does IPM? Take part in our upcoming conference call, October 26, 12:00 p.m. EST. Professionals from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will share current IPM efforts and challenges. Topics include new Local Law 37 which restricts pesticide use in city-owned and leased buildings and requires pesticide use reporting. To join the call, RSVP to Becky to receive call-in and password information.  

Grants for Biopesticides Research Available  
October 10, 2007   Rutgers University's IR-4 Biopesticide Research Program has announced its request for grant proposals.  The program is particularly interested in work that deals with biopesticides as resistance management tools, rotated with conventional products. Proposals are due November 12, 2007. More.

IPM Awareness in School Fact Sheet 
October 8, 2007   An educational IPM resource for schools is now available from The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. A 4-page fact sheet titled “Reducing Pesticide Exposures at Schools” summarizes what IPM is, what pesticides are, and recommendations on how to start IPM implementation in schools.  The fact sheet is available online in PDF format. Hard copies can also be ordered. 

School IPM Networking Committee to Form 
October 5, 2007   School IPM enthusiasts are invited to join the first meeting of the School IPM Networking Committee on December 11, 2007. The meeting will take place during the Entomological Society of America's 2007 Meeting, Dec 9-12 in San Diego, CA. The objectives of this first meeting are to Vote in a Chair, Secretary, etc., identify who the members will be, and to plan ESA activities for 2008. Contact us for more info. 

Grants Available for Work in Critical Areas   
October 1, 2007   The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) is providing one-time seed funding for work on honey bee colony collapse disorder and Uganda ‘TTKS’ strain of wheat stem rust. CSREES will solicit proposals several times during fiscal year 2008 to address other emerging issues. The deadline for this request for applications is November 7, 2007. More. 

YouTube Video Highlights PESTEC, the first Green Shield Pest Control Provider to be Certified 
September 28, 2007   Employing bedbug-sniffing canines and setting up gopher traps are just some of the unique alternative services that PESTEC provides to the traditional approach to pest management. A new YouTube video showcases just how PESTEC, which serves the city and county of San Francisco, reduced the city's use of pesticides by 70 percent. Requests for PESTEC's Green Shield Certified services have doubled in the last four years. Watch the YouTube video. 

Assured Environments and Atlantic Pest Solutions Provide Green Shield Certified Services 
September 26, 2007   Two new pest control service providers have joined the ranks of companies offering Green Shield Certified services.  Assured Environments is offering the Green Assurance service in the New York metro area.  Atlantic Pest Solutions serves Southern Maine and New Hampshire with Atlantic Green Pest Solutions.  Green Shield Certification requires an extensive on-site evaluation of service providers before they are approved.  More.

New Public Agency and Commercial Facility IPM Resource Page and Listserve  
September 26, 2007   Interested in IPM for your public agency or business?  Need help to get started? A new resource is now available, providing model IPM program documents and a variety of presentations, workshop proceedings and upcoming events. Also, a new listserve has been created for sharing information and networking. Visit the site now! 

New Program Provides Environmental Education in Faith-Based Schools 
September 19, 2007   The Center for Health Environment and Justice's Green Flag Program has completed it's first year of it's Green Flag/GreenFaith Program. The program helps children in faith-based schools learn about environmental issues and empowers staff and parents to protect children’s health. Six religious schools in New Jersey made significant, environmentally-conscious changes during the program last year. View the Green Flag/GreenFaith website for more.

Farm Bill Amendment Could Hamper IPM Efforts by Conservation Agencies 
September 14, 2007   An amendment added to the current US House Farm Bill package would prohibit USDA from "discriminating" against specific pesticides in implementing the farm bill. Pesticides are important tools in both IPM and organic systems. However, a key element of IPM and organic approaches is using science-based criteria to choose least-hazardous options when a pesticide is needed. The amendment could prevent conservation managers implementing USDA programs from mitigating impacts resulting from specific pesticides by providing incentives or assistance for transitioning to less hazardous alternatives. Programs potentially affected include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Security Program, both of which have been used to support IPM adoption. Congress should instead increase capacity for USDA to promote IPM.  The amendment text reads "In establishing priorities and evaluate criteria for the approval of plans, contracts and agreements under Title II of this Act, the Secretary shall not discriminate against the use of specific registered pesticide products or classes of pesticide products."  Your call or letter is needed to your Senators by October 1 encouraging removal of this amendment and asking for greater support for IPM in conservation programs.

Grants Available to Farmers, Ag Professionals, and Community Organizations 
August 28, 2007   The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program is awarding grants that support sustainable agriculture projects. Commercial farmers who want to explore pest management, soil health and other endeavors will need to apply by December 18, 2007. Extension agents, NRCS officials, and other professionals who work with farmers can apply for the partnership grant which supports on-farm research; application deadline is December 4, 2007. Organizations that have projects that connect farming and rural economic development can apply for the sustainable community grant; application deadline is November 27, 2007. More. 

Working Group Seeks to Promote IPM to Conservation Professionals 
September 14, 2007   A group of IPM and conservation professionals from the North Central region is entering its second year of working together towards mutual goals using IPM.  The group, funded by a grant from the USDA North Central IPM Center, aims to help IPM, NRCS and other professionals learn more about each others programs and how working together can accelerate conservation of air, soil and water resources.  More.

URGENT: More IPM Please - This Time for Green Buildings!
August 29, 2007   The US Green Building Council is now revising its LEED standards for existing Green Buildings. Unfortunately, neither the existing standards nor the proposed revisions effectively promote Integrated Pest Management. The Council is doing a terrific job promoting green building practices; sign on to a comment letter to urge more IPM.  The letter was drafted by Jonathan Kaplan of the Natural Resources Defense Council.  Your name, title and organization are needed to jkaplan@nrdc.org by Noon Pacific time on Friday, August 31.  Or you may submit your comments directly to USGBC through Sunday, September 2.  The standards are available for viewing here.

Learn How to Create Successful Structural IPM Contracts 
August 14, 2007   Ecowise Certified and the UP3 Project is hosting a one-day workshop "Wise Ways to Get the Structural IPM Service You Want" in Oakland, CA. On November 6, 2007 participants will learn the basics of creating IPM bids and contracts from Dr. Albert Greene of the federal General Services Administration. More on our events page. 

Green-Blue Grants Program Accepting Applications 
August 13, 2007   The Northeastern IPM Center is looking to support projects that   educate residents about how using IPM in residential structures and landscapes can affect water quality. Project ideas should tie to ideas articulated at the July 2007 Green-Blue Summit. Application deadline is September 7, 2007.  More.

Thysanoptera Workshop in California 
August 10, 2007   UC Davis and the Western Pest Diagnostic Center are holding a hands-on workshop on thrips identification with a focus on exotic thrips not yet established in US crops. Register ASAP because the workshop is limited to 50 participants. The workshop is October 15-17, 2007. For more, visit http://www.cevs.ucdavis.edu/Cofred/Public/ and choose Thysanoptera Workshop.  

Extension Educator in Vegetable Crop Management Needed  
July 13, 2007   Michigan State University and Ohio State University Extension have joint funding to hire a candidate who can conduct field research and demonstration plots and assist growers in adopting IPM and conservation practices. Application deadline is September 5, 2007. More on our employment page. 

Stored Products Pest Management Position Available 
July 11, 2007   Oklahoma State University is seeking candidates for an 11-month tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Associate Professor. Applicants should have training in managing arthropod pests of stored products. Review of applications begins on September 30, 2007.  More.

New Publication Helps Elementary Schools Teach IPM
June 21, 2007   IPM Jump Start: An Exploration Into IPM is a new book that contains lessons plans for elementary school teachers. The lessons, which were developed by the Pennsylvania IPM Program, cover pest identification and pesticide safety. The book is available free online in PDF format. See the press release for more information. 

Utah State University Seeks Plant Disease Diagnostician 
June 20, 2007   This full-time position requires the candidate to have one to two years experience in plant disease diagnostic procedures. Applications can only be made online and review of applications will begin on July 14, 2007. More on our employment page. 

Sustainable Ag Expo
June 19, 2007   This year's Sustainable Ag Expo will take place November 1-2, 2007 in Paso Robles, CA. The event features a trade show, exhibitor showcase, and continuing education credits for PCA's, PA's, CCA's, and water quality. More.

Summit Focuses on Residential IPM and Clean Water
June 15, 2007  The Northeastern IPM Center is hosting a "Green-Blue" summit on July 18-19, 2007 at Penn State's Great Valley Conference Center. The summit will identify core messages for consumer outreach and education and will develop strategic plans for addressing IPM needs in turf and structural settings. More on our events page.

Second Annual Biocontrol Industry Meeting 
May 25, 2007   Biological plant protection professionals should plan to attend the second international meeting on October 22-23, 2007 in Lucerne, Switzerland. This meeting gives professionals the opportunity to present new products, agents, systems and solutions in this industry. More. 

Beyond Pesticides' 25th National Pesticide Forum 
May 24, 2007   This year's pesticide forum focuses on solutions for the environment in a changing climate. The forum will take place June 1-3, 2007 at Loyola University, Chicago, IL. Topics include protective policies, Great Lakes and pesticides, and emerging sciences such as nanotechnology. More on our events page. 

EPA Discussion on Indoor Air Quality and IPM 
May 21, 2007   EPA employees and EPA national partners for indoor air quality and IPM programs are encouraged to attend a national dialogue on Tuesday June 5, 2007. For those who are not in the D.C. area, a call-in number is available. If you wish to attend or call in, please RSVP. More.  

Grant Available to Help Reduce Environmental Impacts of School Siting  
May 16, 2007   A new EPA Request for Proposal focuses on how state policies and practices affect spending on school construction and renovation. Proposals are due July 2, 2007. More. 

Erie County Seeks Horticultural IPM Educator 
May 15, 2007   An individual is needed to develop, plan, deliver, and evaluate educational programs (IPM and Horticulture) for commercial greenhouse and nursery industries for the Erie County Cooperative Extension Office in Pennsylvania. Applications are due May 18, 2007. More. 

IPM Contract Training Available    
May 11, 2007   The Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, EcoWise Certified, and the UP3 Project is hosting a brief training on structural IPM contracting in Hayward, CA. On May 23, 2007 from 1:30-3:30 p.m., participants will learn about the EcoWise Certified program as well as the basics of creating IPM bids and contracts. More on our events page. 

Free Workshop on Biology & Control of Insects and Rodents   
May 7, 2007   The National Environmental Health Association is offering a free workshop in Atlantic City, NJ on June 16-17, 2007. This workshop is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Workshop agenda. More. 

Attend the Third National Product Stewardship Forum 
May 3, 2007   The Product Stewardship Institute is holding it's third forum on product stewardship on May 30-31, 2007 in San Francisco, CA. The keynote speaker will be John Wells, President and CEO of Interface Americas.  More. 

Insect Pathologist Needed at University of Tennessee 
May 2, 2007   The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville is seeking candidates for a 12-month, tenure-track position in insect pathology. Application review begins on June 15, 2007.  More. 

Trap System Helps Corn Farmers Save Time and Money
April 30, 2007   The New York State Integrated Pest Management Program at Cornell has developed a system to help corn farmers track such pests as the European corn borer, corn earworm, and fall armyworm. They have set up traps and lures throughout NY and update the trap counts online. By keeping watch on the website, growers can know when these pests are in their area and start scouting for them. More. 

International Plant Protection Summit in England  
April 27, 2007   The International Plant Protection Congress offers networking, business growth, and commercial opportunities. This year the BCPC (formerly known as the British Crop Production Council) is hosting the event in Glasgow, England. The summit will take place October 15-18, 2007. More on our events page.

Texas A&M University Seeks Plant Pathologist 
April 26, 2007   This position is 75% extension specialist, with duties to include developing publications, workshops and conferences. The other 25% is a formal teaching component, to include classes in plant pathology and direction of graduate students. More.

Fruit IPM Extension Educator Needed at Michigan State University 
April 23, 2007   A full-time IPM position is open at the Northwest Michigan Horticultural Research Station, Traverse City, MI. This person will provide leadership and focus for fruit pest and crop management in northern Michigan. Applications due May 18, 2007. More on our employment page.

Food Alliance Midwest Seeks Assistant Program Manager 
April 19, 2007   An assistant program manager is needed to provide program support to the Director and the Business Development Manager of Food Alliance Midwest. Duties include research and assistance in grant writing, research of prospective brands, and administrative work such as database management. Applications due April 20, 2007. More on our employment page. 

IPM Training CD Available from University of Florida  
April 18, 2007  A CD-based tutorial, (SP-427) Institutional IPM: Inspection, Monitoring, and Strategies, is now available from the Entomology and Nematology Department of the University of Florida. The CD contains five modules, narrated flash presentations with video walkthroughs, that cover Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies in a school setting. More.  

Learn How to Reduce Pest Problems and Pesticide Use in Public Facilities at April 18 Workshop in Los Angeles
April 18, 2007 Interested in reducing pests and pesticide use in your facility?  A new, full-day workshop promises a wealth of information from proven performers. Workshop tracks will address both purchasing and delivering proven, high performance Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches.  Facility managers, and buyers and providers of structural pest management services are encouraged to attend. The event will be held at the Oxford Palace Hotel in Los Angeles on April 18, 2007. Pest Control Applicator, Pest Control Advisor and Structural Pest Control Board continuing education units pending. Registration form here. Agenda here. Flier here. More.

New Forage and Rangeland Insect Handbook Available 
April 10, 2007   The Entomological Society of America and the American Phytopathological Society has developed a color handbook that helps growers, researchers and others identify beneficial and harmful arthropods. The handbook also contains sections dedicated to IPM, pollinators, foliar pests, and the ecology and physiology of forage crops. More.  

National Zoo Needs Associate Entomologist
March 29, 2007 The IPM office of the National Zoological Park in Washington DC is looking for an associate entomologist. This person will conduct building inspections, monitor population levels of structural pests and commensal rodents, and will assist in project planning and training sessions. Applications due April 19, 2007. More.

Washington State University Seeks Water Resources Scientist
March 23, 2007 A senior level specialist is needed to lead Washington State University's water resources extension program. This is a full-time tenured position located in Pullman, WA. Application screening begins May 2, 2007.  

Join the March 23 Conference Call: San Francisco's Road to IPM
March 21, 2007   Chris Geiger, program manager for the San Francisco City/County IPM program, will explain San Francisco's unique approaches including the use of goats and weed-flamers on county property. The city's program was the first of its kind in California and has served as a model for government agencies nationwide. For call information and other details, see here. 

New IPM Scouting Guides Available
March 20, 2007   Michigan State University has created three new pocket guides for IPM scouting. The guides are for scouting in herbaceous perennials, nurseries and landscapes, and Christmas trees. Ordering information.

Weather Forecasting Tool Useful to Cotton Growers
March 16, 2007   A new online tool, a five-degree day weather forecaster, helps cotton producers decide the best time to plant their crop. The tool is offered by the University of California Statewide IPM Program on its website. More.

Aberdeen Proving Ground Receives IPM STAR Certification Today
March 12, 2007 This morning Abderdeen Proving Ground and Edgewood Child and Youth Services Program, MD, becomes the sixth army installation to achieve IPM STAR certification. The child and youth service centers boast that no pesticides have been used in the facilities since 1988. Instead, the centers use IPM tactics, such as replacing damaged door seals. More.

Get "The Connection"- A Free IPM Newsletter
March 9, 2007 The North Central IPM Center's newsletter "The Connection" is a great resource for IPM-related news. Topics covered in the February 2007 edition include the soybean rust outbreak and EPA updates. See the edition here. To sign up for the newsletter, contact Susan Ratcliff, Co-Director of the North Central IPM Center. Be sure to include "NC IPMC Connection" in the subject line.

Army Child Development Center Becomes IPM STAR Certified
March 7, 2007  Fort Lewis Child Development and Youth Services Centers, Fort Lewis, WA, is the seventh army facility to pass IPM STAR certification. Fort Lewis implements numerous IPM practices, such as monthly inspections of food service areas, to combat pests. Fort Lewis is also committed to the environment in other ways; current goals include reducing water consumption by 50% by 2025 and continuing a spotted owl management plan for timber cutting and sales on post. More.

Sixth International IPM Symposium Date Announced 
March 2, 2007 Planning for the sixth International IPM Symposium has begun, with a date and location established: Portland, OR, March 24-26, 2009 at the Portland Convention Center. The last symposium drew more than 650 professionals from 23 countries. For up-to-date information, including minutes from various Symposium conference calls, visit the Symposium website.

Open Conference Call Series to Begin on IPM for Public Agencies with Presentation on "Buying IPM"
February 26, 2007  An open conference call with Dr. Albert Greene on buying IPM for structural pest management is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. EST on February 28, 2007.  All are welcome, including corporate buyers of pest management services as well as service providers. This call will be a prelude to full-day “Buying IPM” workshop to be scheduled this spring, featuring Dr. Greene and successful IPM buyer-provider partnerships in school systems and other public agencies.  More.

IPM Training Conference for Professionals in Stored Product 
February 8, 2007  Professionals in bulk raw commodities, processed food, and all related products that are interested in learning about IPM techniques in their field are invited to the Seventh National Stored Product IPM Training Conference. The event is held by Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK on April 18-20, 2007. The conference features hands-on training. More.

Workshop Addresses Low-Impact Approaches to Landscape Care
February 8, 2007  Landscape contractors and land care professionals from parks departments, school systems and corporations interested in learning about natural and organic lawn care practices are invited to attend a workshop in Madison, WI on February 19 and 20, 2007. Chip Osborne, president of Osborne Organics based in Massachusetts, will instruct on organic turf management.  James Sottilo of TreeWise Organics will explain cultural practices, organic inputs and application techniques for woody ornamentals.  Local expert Dr. John Steir of the University of Wisconsin-Madison will report on his recent research in this arena, and provide an overview of local resources.  Workshop agenda here.  Register here.  Flier here.  Sponsored by: Bando Lawn and Landscape, GEMPLER'S, Happy Grass Landscaping, Healthy Lawn Team, MGE,  Trader Joe's, UW Medical Foundation, Veridian Homes, and Whole Foods.

Popular Crime Show Raises Awareness about Pesticide Exposure
February 6, 2007    On Tuesday, February 6, NBC will air "Loophole," an episode on the crime drama Law & Order: Special Victims Unit that will focuson the controversy over EPA's testing rule for pesticides on humans.  The episode highlights regulatory issues concerning pesticides and the difficulty of linking exposure with specific health outcomes. The show also addresses other environmental health threats faced by low-income children in their homes.

Cornell Honors Entomologist with  “Excellence in IPM Award"
January 22, 2007  Entomologist Dan Gilrein, an educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension, has received an “Excellence in IPM Award” from Cornell University's New York State IPM Program.  Gilrein is said to be one of the key people at the forefront of dealing with new pests.  He educates nurseries and other groups on mating disruption techniques for pests, scouting methods, and beneficial parasite information.  More.  

Unusual IPM Project for Vegetable Growers
January 19, 2007  Penn State and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture have a new IPM project for vegetable growers in 2007.  The program will educate two very different groups of local growers- conventional farmers in the Amish and Mennonite communities, and organic farmers involved in Community Supported Agriculture- about biological controls and other important IPM practices.  More.

EPA Region 3 Accepting SAI Grant Proposals
January 15, 2007  EPA Region 3 is soliciting proposals to help implement the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) and foster transition by the agricultural community to the use of less and reduced risk pesticides, alternative methods of pest control and sustainable practices in food production.  The deadline for grant proposal submission is February 9, 2007.  More.

Plant Clinic Director Needed at University of Maryland
December 22, 2006  The University of Maryland's entomology department is now accepting applications for the position of plant clinic director.  This position also includes Extension duties such as development of training programs for Extension faculty and collaborating with State Extension Specialists to diagnose plant health problems.  Applications are due February 1, 2007.  More.

Study Finds IPM Reduces Pesticide Exposure During Pregnancy
December 20, 2006   Researchers at Columbia University have reported that their IPM intervention in inner-city homes decreased cockroach infestations and may have eliminated insecticide exposure in pregnant women. Study summary here. 

Pesticide Stewardship Conference Announced
December 18, 2006   The Pesticide Stewardship Alliance (TPSA) will host its 7^th annual working conference in Reno, NV February 25-28, 2007.  The conference will address many issues including: collection and disposal of obsolete pesticides, the recycling of pesticide containers and reducing agrochemical movement in air and water.  More. 

California IPM Program Announces New Interim Director
December 15, 2006  Peter Goodell, an entomologist and nematologist, is the new interim director for University of California-Davis' Statewide IPM Program. Goodell is well known for his work with the cotton industry, cotton growers, and cotton commodity groups to develop solutions for pest problems such as whiteflies and aphids.  More. 

Eco-labels Abundant in 2007 Predicts Restaurant Business
December 14, 2006  Food service buyers should expect to see more eco-labels in 2007, says the magazine Restaurant Business.  In their December issue, the article “2007 Preview: Green Grows” provides some examples of new products already on the market, such as FreeBird Chicken, an antibiotic-free, all-natural poultry brand, and the Wisconsin Healthy Grown potato.   The article predicts this trend will continue to grow since it helps to give producers and manufacturers a competitive edge in the foodservice market.  Read the article here.  

Unique Horticulture Company Seeks Technical Manager  
December 13, 2006  Becker Underwood creates and produces specialty bio-agronomic and colorant products for turf management, agriculture, seed treatment and other industries.  A technical manager position is available.  The duties of this position include new product development, product maintenance and application projects. 

Plant Science Position Available at CSREES  
December 12, 2006  CSREES is looking for a qualified candidate that will support National Program Leaders in the implementation of programs, policies, and procedures.  This position is located in the Plant Systems section of the Plant & Animal Systems (PAS) unit of the CSREES.  Applications are due January 22, 2007.  Go to USAJobs and enter CSREES-2007-0008 in the keyword search to learn more. 

CSREES Integrated Research, Education, and Extension Competitive Grants for IPM Program Announcement
December 11, 2006  CSREES is now accepting applications for the IPM Section 406 Program grants.  The amount available for these two program areas: Crops at Risk (CAR) and Risk Avoidance and Mitigation (RAMP) is approximately $5,494,000.  The grants support integrated, multifunctional/ multidisciplinary agricultural research, extension, and education activities that address complex pest management priorities.  More.  

Publication Explains IPM Risk Management
November 29, 2006  IPM: A Risk Management Framework to Improve Decision Making is available for purchase on the University of Minnesota Extension website.  The publication includes three case-study fact sheets in addition to an introduction to risk concepts.  See a sample of the document here.

CSREES Changes Proposal Submission Process
November 28, 2006  The CSREES is requiring new forms for all applications and electronic submission for some applications in the fiscal year 2007.  A listing of the authorized submission formats for CSREES programs is available at: http://www.csrees.usda.gov/
funding/fy07changes. Electronic submissions are accepted on the grants.gov website.

National Water Conference Focuses on Water Quality
November 15, 2006  Water quality professionals, university scientists, instructors, and extension educators are encouraged to attend the USDA CSREES National Water Conference in Savannah, Georgia on January 28-February 1, 2007.

EPA Grants for IPM Implementation 
November 9, 2006  EPA Region V and American Farmland Trust have small grants available to farmers who want to reduce their reliance on pesticides reviewed under the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA). RFPs due January 15, 2007.  More.

USDA CSREES Awards Regional IPM Competitive Grants
November 10, 2006  The USDA CSREES funded four regional grants totaling $2.7 million for projects that develop individual pest control tactics, integrate individual tactics into an IPM system and develop and implement extension education programs.  More.  

San Francisco IPM Conference
November 6, 2006  Save the date- February 13, 2007- to be a part of next year's San Francisco IPM conference.  Pest management professionals such as program managers and local agency staff are encouraged to attend. More. 

Grants Available for Invasive Species Research
October 31, 2006  The National Research Initiative program supports  efforts to slow invasive species growth.  The NRI will grant up to $500,000 per project in 2007.  Letters of intent are due December 6, 2006. More.

EPA Office of Pesticide Programs Grant Announcement
October 30, 2006  The EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) has announced grant funds for work that furthers the pesticide risk reduction goals of the Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP).  Total available is estimated to be $509,000 in fiscal year 2007. Proposals are due January 12, 2007.  More.

Eco-Apple Grower Featured in Magazine
October 24, 2006  Clark Brothers Orchard is the focus of an in-depth article in the October 2006 American Fruit Growers magazine. The small family farm is a participant in Red Tomato's and the IPM Institute's Eco Apple program.  Read the article here.  

Professor Earns Cornell Award for Dedication to IPM
October 23, 2006  Daniel Marion, a plant health professor at Finger Lakes Community College, Canandaigua, NY, has been honored with an "Excellence in IPM" award from the New York State IPM Program at Cornell.  Marion developed the first IPM-focused courses in New York State.  More.

Pest Control Advisors' Conference
October 18, 2006  Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA will again host this year’s Sustainable Agriculture PCA Conference on December 1 and 2, 2006.  Industry professionals will get information on innovative strategies for controlling pests using sustainable agricultural practices.  There is also opportunity to earn continuing education credits.  For an agenda and more information, please visit the Sustainable Agriculture Resource Consortium’s website.

2006 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award Winners Announced
October 17, 2006 Four United States and four Canadian companies were honored today with the 2006 Gold Medal IPM Partner Award.  These awards, presented by Orkin, Inc. and The IPM Institute of North America, recognize commercial facilities that have shown the most commitment to Integrated Pest Management (IPM).  See the press release for the list of winners.  

Ontario Conference on Sustainable Communities
October 9, 2006  Those in the Norfolk area who are interested in sustainable agriculture, tourism, and conservation will want to mark their calendars for November 3-5, 2006.  The Long Point World Biosphere Reserve will present this year’s Building a Sustainable Norfolk Community Conference in Simcoe, ON.  The conference starts with a wine and cheese reception and gives participants the option of concluding the conference with either a bus tour of natural areas and farms that practice sustainable agriculture or a bike tour of the Lake Erie shoreline.  More.

Give us Your Input on our Pest Management Strategic Plan 
October 2, 2006  A PMSP is being developed for IPM in Schools and we would like input from school health and safety enthusiasts on our draft matrix. The matrix represents a compilation of strategies sorted by pest, management area or zone, conducive conditions, and adoption techniques. More. 

Organic Certification, Tours and More at 21st Annual  Sustainable Ag Conference 
September 25, 2006  "Gathering the Ingredients for a Sustainable Food System" is this year's theme at the Sustainable Agriculture Conference.  The event, held October 27-29, 2006 in Spartanburg, SC, features morning yoga classes, fresh produce and a silent auction.  Find out more on the Carolina Farm Stewards' website. 

Environmental Health Specialist Needed at Pennsylvania IPM Program 
September 22, 2006  The PA IPM program is looking for someone to coordinate and administer a public health survey to low-income housing residents in Philadelphia, PA and Camden, NJ regarding their attitude and behavior around pest infestation and pesticide use. More. 

NYC Department of Health Seeks IPM Coordinator 
September 20, 2006  The position of IPM coordinator for New York City is now open.  The candidate should have a masters degree in public health, environmental science, entomology, or similar field and have at least three years related work experience. More can be found on the city's website.

Biopesticide Research Grants Available 
September 14, 2006  The IR-4 Biopesticide Research Program is now accepting grant proposals for the funding of efficacy research in 2007. IR-4 is especially interested in proposals containing biopesticides as resistance management tools, rotated with conventional products. More.

October is Children's Health Month 
September 13, 2006  Since children spend a large portion of their time at school, Children’s Health Month is a perfect opportunity to learn more about improving the health of your school's environment.  The EPA will host a series of webcasts on topics related to healthy school environments including chemical management in schools.  To find out how to participate, see EPA's website. 

Learn More About Pollinators at Symposium 
September 7, 2006  The Pollinator Symposium will take place October 18, 2006. Both novices and experts in conservation and policy are encouraged to attend. Registration is required and forms can be found on the North American Pollinator Protection Campaign's website. 

Pest Management Workshop for Production Nurseries 
September 6, 2006  The University of Maryland will conduct a biologically-based pest management workshop for production nurseries on October 5 and 6, 2006. Extension Specialists and Educators, pest management scouts/consultants, and other professionals are welcome to attend.  The registration deadline is September 20, 2006. More.

Preventive Steps Help NY School System Earn IPM STAR Award 
September 5, 2006  Monroe-Woodbury Public Schools in Central Valley, NY achieved IPM STAR Certification for its dedication to reducing the exposure of its students to pesticides. One preventive measure the head groundskeeper takes is to let areas along fence lines naturalize—let them grow up in meadow plants or vines. Read more on our IPM STAR page.  

Exotic/Invasive Pests and Diseases Research Workshop
September 5, 2006  This fifth annual workshop highlights University of California-funded research in agricultural, urban and natural systems. The event takes place October 3, 2006 and is part of UC-Riverside's 100th anniversary celebration of the contributions of the Citrus Experiment Station to pest and disease management. More.

Position Open at MSU's Enviro-weather 
August 31, 2006  A weather information system coordinator is needed at Enviro-weather, a weather-based system for making pest management, natural resources or agricultural production decisions. Applications will be reviewed beginning September 12, 2006 until position is filled. More.

Commercial Least-Toxic Herbicides Work on Annuals, Not Perennials 
August 30, 2006  There are only a handful of alternative herbicides in the market for gardeners and even fewer independent evaluations to help gardeners choose among them. Cornell researchers recognized this problem and have since tested the effectiveness of two products- AllDown, a citric acid and garlic formulation, and BurnOut II, made with clove oil and soap. They have found that while these work well on annuals, they are not as effective on perennials because of the plants' extra energy in their roots.  More.

More Mosquito Diseases Mapped Out  
August 28, 2006  The U.S. Geological Survey and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention created a new website after compiling data on five mosquito-related diseases in addition to West Nile Virus.  There are over 700 maps on the site that show where these diseases have been sited and in what animal.  Visit the site.

New Pest Identification Posters Available 
August 28, 2006  The University of Florida has developed posters that will help the public identify various cockroaches, termites, flies, ants, and many more bugs. These posters are great tools for school and business custodians and also homeowners.  See a preview of the posters and buy them here.

New Seasonal Pest Management Guide for Stone Fruit Growers
August 24, 2006  The University of California-Davis' Seasonal Guide to Environmentally Responsible Pest Management Practices in Peaches and Nectarines outlines common pests, pest monitoring procedures and treatment choices for each season.  The guide also includes lists of environmentally friendly insecticides. More. 

Talking Volkswagen Bug Educates Public on IPM
August 11, 2006   Pennsylvanians might have seen an unusual car on their streets; a VW bug painted to look like a ladybug that is outfitted with speakers.  The people inside the car, such as Penn State County Extension Staff, Future Farmer of America members, and arboretum and nature center staff, use this as a vehicle for getting the message of IPM across to passersby.  More.

Northern California Urban IPM Conference
August 10, 2006    Researchers, educators, regulators, pest managers, and others involved in community and urban IPM from across Northern California are encouraged to attend the third annual Regional IPM Conference in San Jose, CA on November 14, 2006.  Space is limited.  Attendees are encouraged to register by September 15, 2006 to take advantage of an early registration fee.  More. 

Fruit IPM Program Helps Protect Children
August 10, 2006   Penn State researchers are helping apple and peach producers implement IPM practices as harmful insecticides like organophosphates and carbamates are being phased out in order to protect children and infants. More. 

Sustainable Ag Position Open at University of Maine
August 8, 2006   The University of Maine is now accepting applications for an assistant professor of sustainable agriculture research position. Applications will be first be reviewed September 22,2006.  More. 

U.S. and Canadian Gold Medal IPM Partner Award Finalists Announced
August 7, 2006  Orkin Commercial Services and the IPM Institute of North America announced nine U.S. and nine Canadian finalists for the 2006 Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards. The awards honor commercial facilities that excel at Integrated Pest Management (IPM). See the list of U.S. finalists here.  See the list of Canadian finalists here.

Pest Alert Helps Track Climate Change
August 7, 2006  The original purpose of a Cornell University “trap network” was to alert farmers when damaging pests were on the fly in 60,000 acres of sweet corn across New York State.  Researchers have since observed an extra service the network provides them: tracking how these pests could respond to changing climates.  More.

Fort Belvoir Child Development and Youth Services Center Newest IPM STAR Honoree 
August 2, 2006  Yesterday Fort Belvoir Child Development and Youth Services Center, Fairfax, VA, became the fifth U.S. preschool program to achieve IPM STAR status. IPM protocol, including inspection of food shipments and monitoring conditions conducive to pests, has been followed at the center for 14 years. See the IPM STAR profile for more. 

Second Annual Sustainable Ag Expo 
July 31, 2006  Monterey, CA is where you will want to be November 2 and 3 to attend the Sustainable Ag Expo.  The event features discussions on on-farm water quality practices and energy efficiency, as well as continuing education credits for PA, PCA, CCA, and water quality.  Exhibitor space is limited, so make reservations today.  More. 

Southwestern Schools Compete for New IPM Award
July 28, 2006   The IPM Pride Award will not be given to the biggest IPM effort, says the Southwest Technical Resources Center for IPM in Schools, but to the schools that show the most commitment to the IPM concept.  Winning schools will receive cash awards of $1,000 and $500.  Public schools in TX, OK, NM, LA, and AR are eligible to apply.  For an application and more details, go here.

Northeastern IPM Center Gives Over $1 Million in Grants
July 21, 2006    Twenty-one grants were awarded to various programs by the Northeastern IPM Center, totaling more than $1 million.  Programs focus on IPM outreach, urban landscape IPM, vegetable IPM in the northeast, pest management strategic plans, and much more.  Learn more about these programs here.

Food Alliance Pancake Breakfast 
July 20, 2006  On August 3 Food Alliance will be hosting a free pancake breakfast during Farmfest in Redwood County, MN.  The breakfast features presentations by local chefs and farmers about the growing demand for foods grown in the region.  More.

Fort Riley Child Development Center Awarded IPM STAR Today 
July 17, 2006   During a ceremony today, Fort Riley Child Development Center will be recognized for their commitment to IPM with IPM STAR certification. CDC staff are taught IPM practices and pesticide alternatives are implemented.  See the IPM STAR profile for more.

Natural Resources/Enviro Sciences Program Specialist Position Open 
July 14, 2006    The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) seeks a program specialist with topic experience to establish and coordinate programs, policies and schedules.  Applications due August 10, 2006.  Visit http://jobsearch.usajobs.opm.gov/a9csrees.asp and type in CSREES-2006-0101 in the keyword search box.  

New MSU Bulletin on Beneficial Insects
July 13, 2006    Identifying Natural Enemies in Field Crops, a new bulletin from Michigan State University, emphasizes the critical role beneficial insects are playing in managing soybean aphid populations.  The guide is geared for field crops, but is appropriate for use in other crops and by homeowners. View sample pages here.  More. 

Fourth International Bemisia and Whitefly Genomic Workshop
July 12, 2006    Two consecutive workshops will be held in the Florida Keys December 3-6 and 7-8, 2006 on Bemisia spp and the challenges faced in controlling this world wide pest.  Register by September 1^st to receive a reduced rate.  Abstracts due to the workshop website by August 1, 2006. More.

Pesticide Action Network North America Seeks Executive Director
July 12, 2006    PAN North America, San Francisco, CA, is searching for an executive director.  The candidate should be experienced with aspects of PANNA’s core issues, including: pesticides impacts and policy; sustainable agriculture and pest management; public and/or environmental health; farm worker advocacy; international development and related social, economic and environmental justice issues.  For more information, see the job description.

Ecosystem Restoration Conference
July 11, 2006    Mark your calendar for the second National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration, April 22-27, 2007.  The conference serves as a forum for physical, biological and social scientists, engineers, resource managers and decision-makers to share their knowledge and establish future priorities for ecosystem restoration. Submit abstracts by October 15, 2006.  More. 

Biological Control Best Way to Fight Invasive Insect   
July 5, 2006    The glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS), a foreign insect to California, has caused millions of dollars worth in damage to vineyards and a variety of crops.  GWSS causes Pierce’s disease in grapes, almond leaf scorch, alfalfa dwarf disease and oleander leaf scorch. Currently more than 70 state and federal research programs are studying GWSS. Many researchers are looking towards biological control as a solution. Researchers from the University of California, the USDA, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture have introduced parasitic wasps.  More.  

Multiple NY School Districts Share IPM Practices
June 22, 2006    For the past two years Scarsdale Public Schools, the Monroe-Woodbury Central School District and the Minisink Valley Central School District have worked together so each can keep their buildings and grounds pest-free.  Recent laws and parental concern over pesticide use pushed the New York State IPM program to develop a learning community approach to IPM for the three school systems.  Each school system is working to attain IPM STAR Certification.  More.   

Visual Surveys and Dripline Use Best Methods to Treat Tomato Psyllids 
June 16, 2006   Tomato psyllids are devastating crops across the country. Lack of information on reliable monitoring techniques makes early detection of these insects very difficult, leading some growers to apply pesticides. Entomologists John Trumble and Richard Stouthamer from the University of California, Riverside, studied the annual immigration pattern of tomato psyllids into California tomato production areas using visual surveys and molecular techniques. Their results can help to estimate when and how much insecticide to use to control them.  More. 

Program Associate Needed at Safer Pest Control Project 
June 8, 2006   The SPCP, an Illinois non-profit dedicated to reducing the health risks and environmental impacts of pesticides, is in search of a full-time program associate.  The associate will plan, develop, implement and evaluate IPM programs as well as create IPM workshops for a variety of audiences, in addition to other duties.  The applicant should have three to five years experience in environmental policy, and program development experience.  More.  

Pre-Conference Workshop on Insect, Rodent Control 
June 7, 2006   The 70^th annual National Environmental Health Association  conference will take place June 25-28 in San Antonio.  NEHA is sponsoring a new pre-conference workshop, June 23-24, which focuses on vector management and IPM for insects and rodents.  See the workshop’s agenda here.  Find out more about the NEHA conference here.

Try the Year-Round IPM Approach 
May 31, 2006   Preventive measures are almost always better than treating problems as they come along, and a year-round IPM approach is one of the best preventive measures available.  Instead of using pest guides for practices to treat a specific pest, the year-round program provides seasonal checklists that guide growers through a year of monitoring pests, making management decisions, and planning for the following season.  The University of California Statewide IPM Program created the year-round programs for prunes, almonds, cotton, and peaches in order to help growers avoid water quality problems related to pesticide use.  More.

EPA, Edison Electric and Federal Agencies to Establish Integrated Vegetation Management Practices 
May 30, 2006   EPA recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Edison Electric Institute and five federal agencies that would make it possible to carry out IVM practices while ensuring reliable electrical service.  IVM practices reduce the need for pesticides and provide measurable results, such as greater natural species diversity along rights-of-ways and better control of invasive species.  IVM also prevents wildfires around utility rights-of-way and improves power line safety and electric utility worker safety.  More. 

IPM Modules Faster, Plus New Addition  
May 19, 2006   The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has improved it’s online IPM Learning Modules.  Module topics include asthma triggers in school, school ground pests, site-specific IPM, and the new “treatment strategies” module.  The new modules load quicker than the old ones, thanks to the new flash format.  See the modules here as well as on our IPM Standards for Schools site, which has links to many other modules.   

Help Make Next IPM Symposium a Success
May 18, 2006  IPM Symposium VI takes place in 2009. That might seem far away to some, but planning has already begun.  The Symposium is only as good as the people behind it and the planning committee would like some fresh ideas from volunteers.  There are a variety of volunteer opportunities that require only a few hours of work a month.  Please see how you can help by going to our events page. 

Workshop Focuses on IPM, Water Quality 
May 16, 2006  Ohio State University will hold a workshop linking IPM and water quality in irrigated farming systems November 8-9, 2006.  Pesticide applicators, extension educators, CCAs, and others are encouraged to attend.  More.

Fifth National IPM Symposium Session Material Available 
May 15, 2006  Was there a memorable topic at the Fifth National IPM Symposium that you would like to learn more about?  If so, a program schedule including session abstracts, contact information, and many complete presentations is now available on the Symposium website. 

Maine to Implement IPM Programs for Indoor Pest Control 
May 12, 2006  The Maine Board of Pesticides Control has passed a rule that would require indoor pesticide applicators to implement IPM programs. Under the rule, effective January 2007, pesticides could only be used after trying everything else. If pesticides are used, 24-hour notification would be required for residents and workers in private group homes, apartment buildings and public and private office buildings.  More.   

California IPM Advisor Uses GPS, Fencing to Control Rabbits 
May 3, 2006  University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Advisor Cheryl Wilen and her field team have come up with an inventive way to rid fields of rabbits: Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and electric and silt fencing.  Using GPS, Wilen was able to find rabbit holes and hiding places.  However, since it’s illegal to bait rabbits in California, Wilen used fencing to keep out most rabbits.  Wilen also recommends modifying spaghetti irrigation tubing by covering it with larger polytubing or using a system where the tubing hangs down rather than lying on the ground. More.  

Website Addresses Brown Rot in Dried Plums  
May 1, 2006  Ninety-nine percent of the U.S. supply of dried plums comes from orchards in California.  The disease brown rot is currently most threatening to this supply. In response, a new website, created by Themis Michailides and Yong Luo, of the Kearney Agricultural Center, helps growers make decisions not only during bloom time, but also later in the season.  The website, funded by the University of California Statewide IPM Program and the California Dried Plum Board, provides growers with the best timings for spraying, irrigation, and fruit thinning for disease control.  More.  

Pest Management Guide Has IPM Solution for Potato Tuberworm 
April 27, 2006  A new guidebook titled Integrated Pest Management for Potatoes in the Western United States from the University of California-Davis provides growers and pest management professionals with the first IPM approach to treating potato tuberworm, a recent concern of potato growers.  The guidebook has information on diagnosis and treatment for more than 120 potato pests and disorders.  More.  

US EPA Presents Environmental Award to Arizona IPM Leader and Others  
April 27, 2006  In a ceremony held April 18, 2006, US EPA Region 9 awarded three dozen organizations and individuals for their environmental contributions.  Dr. Dawn Gouge of the Arizona Cooperative Extension at the University of Arizona received an Environmental Achievement Award for her role in reducing pesticide use by more than 80 percent in schools, especially those around the US/Mexico border and in Indian country.  For more information on Dr. Gouge as well as the other winners, see the press release. 

Fifth National IPM Symposium Featured New Award, IPM Innovations  
April 12, 2006  The Fifth National IPM Symposium, “Delivering on a Promise,” held April 4-6, was a chance for the more than 650 attendees from 23 countries to discuss innovations that lead to a safer food supply, enhanced human health and an improved environment.  Also, the first-ever National IPM Achievement Award was presented to five organizations/people that demonstrated effective IPM practice.  For a list and description of the award winners, see full story. 

NY Pest Management Professional Honored for IPM in Schools, Hotels  
March 29, 2006  Rich Muscarella, owner of Ashland Pest Control, has been recognized with an “Excellence in IPM Award” from the New York State IPM Program at Cornell University.  Muscarella, who has a master’s degree in urban entomology, achieved dramatic results after implementing IPM practices such as building pests out and stressing impeccable cleanliness at both Buffalo public schools and local hotels. More.

Field Crops Educator Honored with “Excellence In IPM Award” 
March 24, 2006  The New York State Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program at Cornell University has bestowed Jeff Miller, an Agriculture Program Leader and field crops educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension in Oneida County, New York, an “Excellence In IPM Award.” Miller works with farmers on scouting, often showing them their fields are below the university economic threshold.  More. 

Eco Fruit Outreach Specialist Needed at UW-Madison  
March 24, 2006  The University of Wisconsin-Madison is searching for a full-time outreach specialist.  Major duties include working with NRCS to develop standards for orchard management, identifying target counties for workgroup education, and maintenance and analysis of the Pesticide Reduction Assessment Tool system.  The application deadline is April 3, 2006.   

Sustainable Industries Journal Presents 2006 Sourcebook 
March 20, 2006  The new 2006 Farming Sourcebook is a comprehensive guide to resources for sustainable and certified agricultural production in the Pacific Northwest.  Also includes topics of general interest such as internet marketing, conservation, soil health, pest management and water use and quality.  More.  

Free Online Course on Spray Drift Management 
March 20, 2006  An American Society of Agronomy-accredited, free self-study course on spray drift management is now available online.  A one-hour continuing education credit is given to those who successfully complete the course.  This is a good course for applicators, managers and sustainable ag auditors.  More.  Other on-line classes available here.  

Fruit Researcher Needed at WCRC
March 3, 2006   The Western Colorado Research Center, Grand Junction, CO, is searching for a candidate with a Master’s degree or higher to fill a full-time research associate position. The focus is on integrated crop management systems for fruit crops, especially fruit pathology.   Applications are due March 20, 2006.  More.

Field Pesticide FIFRA Inspector Job Opening in Minnesota  
February 24, 2006  The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is in search of a field pesticide inspector.  The right candidate must have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Environmental Science, or related field, must be fluent in both English and Spanish, possess basic computer skills, and be able to travel with a valid driver’s license.  The deadline for applications is March 21, 2006.  More

IPM Specialist Position Open at DATCP 
February 20, 2006  The Madison, WI office of the Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection is currently accepting applications for the full-time position of a pesticide and IPM Specialist. Among other things, this position provides staff support for the school integrated pest management (IPM) program, including regulation of the use of pesticides on public school properties.  The application deadline is March 6, 2006.  More.

West Point Child Development Center Earns IPM STAR  
February 14, 2006  The Child Development Center at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point has become the third such facility in the nation to earn IPM STAR Certification.  James Beemer, who coordinates the IPM program at the installation, includes bears, poachers and rattlesnakes among the occasional 'pests' to be managed at the beautiful site along the Hudson River.   More.

“Excellence in IPM” Award Presented to Corn Farmer 
February 6, 2006  Jeff Kubecka, a corn and vegetable farmer in Kirkville, N.Y. is the most recent recipient of an Excellence in IPM Award. The award, which is given by the New York State IPM Program at Cornell University, recognizes those who adopt and promote IPM.  Kubecka was recognized for taking full advantage of opportunities to reduce pesticide use, as well as his influence on other farmers in adopting IPM in his role as co-executive secretary of the New York Vegetable Growers.  More.

N.Y. Apple Grower Given  “Excellence in IPM” Award 
February 3, 2006  George Lamont, an apple grower near Albion, N.Y., is the most recent recipient of an "Excellence in IPM” Award from the New York State IPM Program at Cornell University.  Lamont was chosen for his innovative and proactive work in adopting and promoting IPM.  Lamont, who was former Executive Secretary of the New York State Horticultural Society, has been credited for his part in many research trials, including testing new, biologically based insect growth regulators.  More.

Reduced Fee for Fifth National IPM Symposium Early Registration 
January 31, 2006  On-line registration is now available for the Fifth National IPM Symposium, "Delivering on a Promise," to be held April 4-6, 2006 at the Adams Mark Hotel, St. Louis, Missouri.  Register before St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, and save some greenbacks with a reduced fee of $175.  The fee includes symposium admission and materials, three continental breakfasts, one lunch and two poster session receptions. For more information, which is updated frequently, please visit http://www.ipmcenters.org/ipmsymposiumv/

First California Vineyards Certified for Sustainable Winegrowing by Lodi Rules
January 25, 2006  The Lodi-Woodbridge Winegrape Commission certified vineyards on the basis of the Lodi Rules for the first time.  The Lodi Rules are California's first set of appellation-wide sustainable viticulture standards. These standards have been peer reviewed by environmentalists, scientists and academics and are endorsed by Protected Harvest.  More.

Extension Associate Position Open at Penn State
January 20, 2006  Penn State is now accepting applications for an Extension Associate in Agricultural Environmental Policy.  The associate will help conduct an extension program on economic and policy issues relating to agriculture and the environment.  The deadline for applications is February 16, 2006. More.

Cornell University Names an “Excellence in IPM" Award Winner 
January 19, 2006  The New York State Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program at Cornell University has bestowed Gil Bloom, president of Standard Pest Management of Queens, NY, its Excellence in IPM Award.  Bloom was past president of the New York State Pest Management Association and is currently an adjunct president of the Pest Management Institute.  He has taught IPM to many pest control operators, as well as to clients. More.

Fifth National IPM Symposium Introduces First IPM Achievement Award
January 11, 2006  The Awards Committee for the 5^th National IPM Symposium is now accepting nominations for the first IPM Achievement Award.  Nominees should be individuals, businesses or other organizations that deserve special recognition for their success in implementing IPM.  The deadline for submitting nominations is February 15, 2006.  More.

Updated School IPM Requirements by State
December 29, 2005   The National Pest Management Association has updated its guide to state school pest management requirements.  Review. 

Food Alliance In Need of Certification Director 
December 19, 2005  The certification director will perform many duties at Food Alliance including design and delivery of Food Alliance’s sustainable agriculture certification, becoming the main technical resource and supporting the marketing and sales of the certification program. The application deadline is January 3, 2006. 

In-depth Look at Gold Medal IPM Winners 
December 14, 2005  Why did Orkin, Inc. and the IPM Institute choose AgraWest Foods, Cavendish Farms and Tree of Life as Gold Medal IPM winners?  Their dedication to IPM, of course. Click on the company names to learn more about why they were rewarded. Look for more to come on the other four winners. 

EurepGAP Offers Workshop for Technical Advisors
December 12, 2005  EurepGAP's "Train-the Trainer" workshop, held December 31 to January 2 in Berlin, will explain how the EurepGAP Framework for Fruit and Vegetables can be implemented. EurepGAP encourages technical advisors as well as auditors of applicant certification bodies to attend. EurepGAP originated in 1997 as an initiative of retailers and is now a mission of both ag producers and their retail customers to develop widely accepted standards for the global certification of Good Agricultural Practices. To learn more about EurepGAP and the workshop, visit their website.

Join Food Alliance for Their 7th Annual Dinner
November 23, 2005   On February 17th, 2006, Food Alliance is throwing another bash to celebrate folks who provide us with environmentally friendly and socially responsible food. The party includes drinks, dinner and a silent auction.  Look for updates about the dinner on Food Alliance's website.

Faculty Research Assistant Positions Open at the National Pesticide Information Center
November 23, 2005   Oregon State University's National Pesticide Information Center is seeking one or more full-time faculty research assistants for the 2005-2006 academic year. The candidate should have a background in pesticide chemistry, environmental chemistry, and toxicology, among other things. To learn more about this position, click here.

Michigan State University Offers Two Short Courses on IPM and Biosafety
November 21, 2005  MSU is holding a ten-day course in June 2006 on the concepts and principles of Agroecology, IPM and Sustainable Ag, as well as a six-day course in August 2006 titled Biosafety: Environmental Aspects of Agricultural Biotechnology.  Please follow the above links to learn more.

North Carolina School Systems Acknowledged for Their IPM Practices
November 9, 2005.  The North Carolina State University's School IPM Program recently held its first awards ceremony.  Twenty-one school districts were given leadership awards for having long-standing, exemplary IPM programs.   Click here for the press release.

Online Poster Abstract Submissions Open for IPM Symposium
November 8, 2005.   Share your IPM work with others at the upcoming Symposium.  There will be plenty of time to talk about your posters, however space is limited, so get your abstract in by December 16, 2005. More.

Fort Campbell Schools and Child Development Centers Awarded IPM STAR
November 4, 2005.  Fort Campbell Kentucky is now home to an IPM STAR Certified School System and Child Development Center.  The facilities serve the US Army 101st Airborne Division.  More.

Applied IPM Ecologist Set 40th Annual Conference
October 18, 2005.  The Association of Applied IPM Ecologists will hold their annual conference in Oxnard,  California, from February 5-6.  For more information, or to view proceedings from the 2005 event, visit the AAIE website.

Lewiston Public Schools Earns IPM STAR
October 17, 2005.  Lewiston Public Schools in Maine has become the fourteenth IPM STAR Certified school district in the nation, passing a rigorous, on-site evaluation of pest control and IPM practices.  The school system is the second largest in Maine, serving 4700 students.  More.

Gold Medal IPM Winners Announced
October 17, 2005.  Second annual awards competition recognizes Orkin commercial clients who excel as IPM partners.  When facility managers, and maintenance and sanitation professionals perform in their roles, pest problems and pesticide applications are reduced. US winners include: Knouse Foods (Biglerville, PA); Sara Lee Coffee & Tea (Harahan, LA); Tree of Life/Gourmet Award Foods Midwest (Bloomington, IN).  Canadian winners are: AgraWest Foods, Ltd. (Souris, PEI); Cavendish Farms (New Annan, PEI); Schneider Foods (Kitchener, ON); Smurfit-MBI (New Westminster, BC).  Read more (MS Word file).

Conservation Innovation Grants Fund Market-Based Initiatives
October 10, 2005.  The USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service's new Conservation Innovation Grant program, now in its second year, has funded three projects which market certified IPM-grown product.  The Food Alliance, World Wildlife Fund and the Northwest Natural Resource Group were beneficiaries, with plans to work with food and fiber producers in several states.  More.

IPM Centers Request Proposals for Funding
September 23, 2005.  IPM grant proposals are being solicited from public and private universities and colleges.  Southern Region, deadline Dec. 7.  Western Region, deadline Dec. 15.

EPA Strategic Ag Grants Open for Proposals
September 23, 2005.  Grant applications for pesticide risk-reduction projects are being accepted by from organizations in several regions.  Eligible applicants include non-profit and for-profit organizations, commodity groups/associations, extension and university programs, state and federal government agencies and tribes  In New England, deadline Oct. 31.  In NY, NJ, PR, USVI, deadline Oct. 14.  In NC, SC, GA, AL, FL, MS, KY, TN deadline Oct. 31.

Sustainable Ag Seminar & Expo
September 16, 2005.  The Central Coast Vineyard Team invites participants to the first Sustainable Ag Expo, including educational seminars and featuring exhibits of sustainable products and services. Event scheduled for Paso Robles, CA, November 15-16.  Contact Jill Whitacre for more information.

Southeast Sustainable Ag Conference Set
September 13, 2005.  From Field to Fork: Creating a Blueprint for a Sustainable Food System in the Carolinas is the theme of meeting slated for November 4-6 in Durham, NC.  This 20th annual event is sponsored by the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association.  More.

Eco Apple Growers Recognized
September 9, 2005.  Six Northeast apple producers went out on a limb this season, helping to develop and follow rigorous guidelines for producing apples with a minimum of pesticides.  The standards include systematic pest monitoring, acting to control pests only when absolutely necessary and using an approved list of "least-toxic" pesticides.  The IPM Institute served the lead scientific role in developing the standards in collaboration with scientists from Cornell and UMass, and growers and consultants in the region.  The fruits of this collaboration are distributed by Red Tomato. More.

Call for Exhibitors and Sponsors, Fifth National IPM Symposium
September 8, 2005.  More than 700 professionals from all walks of IPM are expected to participate in the Symposium, slated for St. Louis April 4-6, 2006.  Sponsors and exhibitors will be recognized on the Symposium website, program and signage on-site, and a 10' display space at the meeting hotel.  View application (PDF format).

EPA Strategic Ag Grants Open: NY, NJ, PR and USVI
September 8, 2005.  Grant applications for pesticide risk-reduction projects are being accepted from organizations in EPA Region II states, including NY, NJ, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands.  Deadline October 14.  More.

IPM Certification Project Position Open
September 8, 2005.  San Francisco Bay Area IPM certification project looking for coordinator to work with structural pest management participants and others. For RFQ document (PDF format).

Southern SARE Grants Available
September 7, 2005.  USDA Sustainable Ag Research and Education program is offering funding for ag producer and producer organizations for projects that will help educate other producers in increase sustainable practice adoption.  More.

Northeast IPM Grants Available
August 29, 2005.  The USDA Northeastern IPM Center has announced availability of grants for agriculture and community IPM projects. Competitive program is available to land-grant institutions including colleges, universities and ag experiment stations.  Others may participate as sub-contractors.  Deadline for applications is October 7.  More.

Biopesticides Grant Opportunity
August 29, 2005.  The IR-4 Biopesticide Research Program has announced a request for grant proposals for biopesticide efficacy research.  IR-4 is especially interested in proposals containing biopesticides as resistance management tools, rotated with conventional products. While resistance management is an important interest, the proposal must still have a majority focus on biopesticides. Download application materials here.

New Book Calls for Action on IPM in Schools
August 15, 2005.  We need to direct more attention and resources to reduce children's  pest and pesticide exposure in our schools, according to Dr. Marc Lame of Indiana University.  In his new book, A Worm in the Teacher's Apple: Protecting America's School Children from Pests and Pesticides, Lame cites his experience in school systems across the US as evidence that pest control remains inadequate despite overuse of pesticides.  Lame's "Monroe Model" projects have reduced pest complaints and pesticide use by as much as 90%.  More. 

Gold Medal IPM Award Finalists Announced
August 11, 2005.  Second annual awards competition recognizes fifteen Orkin commercial clients who excel as IPM partners.  When facility managers, and maintenance and sanitation professionals perform in their roles, pest problems and pesticide applications are reduced. 

US finalists include: Bausch & Lomb Pharmaceuticals (Tampa); Chef Solutions (Northlake, IL); Knouse Foods (Biglerville, PA); Sara Lee Coffee & Tea (Harahan, LA); Temple-Inland Paperboard & Packaging (Marion, OH); Tree of Life/Gourmet Award Foods Midwest (Bloomington, IN).

Canadian finalists are: AgraWest Foods, Ltd. (Souris, PEI); Cavendish Farms (New Annan, PEI); Custom Industries (Toronto); McCain Foods Canada (Carberry, MB) Natrel, Inc. (Cumberland, ON); Parmalat Thornloe (Thornloe, ON); Schneider Foods (Kitchener, ON); Smucker Foods of Canada Co. (Saskatoon); Smurfit-MBI (New Westminster, BC).

Read more about US and Canadian finalists (MS Word files).

IPM Institute Named EPA National Champion
July 11, 2005.  US EPA's Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program has named the IPM Institute a National Champion for the second year in a row. The goal of PESP is to reduce pesticide risk in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings.  The award will be presented on July 15 in Washington DC.  More about PESP.

Fifth National IPM Symposium, April 4-6, 2006
August 12, 2005.  Plan to attend this event in St. Louis this spring!  Workshops and presentation will cover a broad range of IPM efforts in agriculture and communities including biological control, public health issues, eco-labels, impact assessment, crop-specific systems and more.  The 2003 Symposium attracted more than 700 participants from 14 countries. A call for poster submissions will be released in October, private meeting space is available for your organization's IPM-related meetings.  Contact the IPM Institute for exhibit and sponsorship opportunities.  PDF Announcement.

Think Global, Eat Local
August 1, 2005.  Los Angeles Times Magazine covers sustainable food developments, including eco-label Food Alliance, which incorporates IPM into its qualifying standards.  Local chefs and multi-national chains are responding to consumer concerns regarding health and environment.   More.

BioIPM Potato Workbook Recognized by NACAA
July 27, 2005.  The National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) named the BioIPM Potato Workbook the best learning module for growers nationally.  Organized in chapters by phenology from pre-plant through post-harvest, this guide supports best practices for potato production with color photos and diagrams illustrating variety selection, resistance management and soil quality improvement as well as biologically based insect, disease and weed control. Available from the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association.  View the Workbook online.

Ornamentals IPM Positions Open in NY
July 28, 2005. IPM Coordinator sough to facilitate statewide IPM for nursery and greenhouse crops and sod production; lead new IPM approaches; develop informational materials; conduct multi-disciplinary IPM research.  MS (PhD preferred) and broad experience in IPM required; previous extension or education experience desirable.  Also, Area IPM Educator, Ornamentals, Western NY, wanted to develop, implement and evaluate IPM educational programs, conduct applied research, prepare grant proposals, design workshops. MS and 3-4 years professional work experience in horticulture, ornamentals, IPM or Extension; excellent communication skills; understanding of greenhouse and nursery production. J.A. Grant, NYS IPM Program, NYSAES, Geneva, NY 14456-0462, USA; Fax: 1-315-787-2360, Phone: 1-315-787-2353, http://www.nysipm.cornell.edu.

Second Edition of The New American Farmer Released
July 25, 2005.  Published by USDA Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education, this edition includes 14 new farmer profiles and is available on-line.  Profiles include farm history, challenges addressed, environmental benefits and advice to others considering making a transition to more sustainable practices in fruits, vegetables, livestock and fiber production.  More.

Protected Harvest Seeks Technical & Scientific Coordinator
June 14, 2005.  Coordinator will  will collaborate with qualified organizations to develop region and crop-specific verifiable environmental performance standards based largely on the implementation of Biointensive IPM (BioIPM) practices and reduction of pesticide use.  Announcement in MS Word format.

Northern Plains Sustainable Ag Symposium Set
June 10, 2005.  The Northern Plains Sustainable Agriculture Society will be holding its Summer Symposium July 8 & 9 in Minnesota.  More.

First Childcare Facility Awarded IPM STAR
May 31, 2005.  The Moore Child Development Center, located at Carlisle Barracks in Pennsylvania, is the first childcare facility to earn IPM STAR Certification.  The award will be presented on June 2 at Carlisle Barracks.  More. 

Buffalo Public Schools Awarded IPM STAR
April 27, 2005.  Buffalo Public Schools' Board of Education was awarded IPM STAR Certification today in a public ceremony at City Hall.  The school system earned the award, the twelfth in the nation to do so, after a rigorous on-site evaluation conducted by IPM professionals from the IPM Institute and Cornell University.  More. 

IPM Position with Safer Pest Control Project
May 23, 2005.  Full-time program associate wanted to develop and implement programs around pesticide use and risk reduction.  Chicago-based organization works to increase IPM adoption in schools, public housing, parks and other environments.  For more info, visit www.spcpweb.org.

San Francisco IPM Conference, June 1
April 26, 2005.  Annual educational meeting for pest management program managers, local agency pest management staff and anyone interested in IPM in urban/community settings.  Agenda features Theo Colburn, formerly of the World Wildlife Fund, and  James Snow of the US Golf Association.  Topics include mosquito-borne diseases, weed-free landscape design, urban forest diseases, cockroach biocontrol, and bat and pigeon IPM.  Events include a " Green Golf" Tour of Harding Park Golf Course.  Coincides with five-day UN World Environment event.  More.

Biocontrol Conference Set for October 2005
April 21, 2005.  The Association of Natural Biocontrol Producers hosts its annual conference October 14-15 in Guadalajara, Mexico.  "Beneficials Without Borders" features presentations on field research, technology transfer, regulatory issues, marketing and other topics related to beneficial insects and other organisms. Call for papers, including student competition, open now. 

Ph.D. Studentship Offered in UK
April 19, 2005.  Study impact of pesticides on pollinator biodiversity and provision of pollinator services to crops and rare plants, including bumblebees, solitary bees, butterflies and hoverflies.  Applicants should have degree in Ecology or Biology. Position based at internationally renowned Department of Agriculture at the University of Reading, UK. Contact Mrs L. Cook.

Masters Level Biocontrol Assistantship Offered
April 14, 2005.  The Department of Entomology at Kansas State University is offering a grant-supported assistantship at Masters level to investigate comparative effectiveness of biological vs. chemical control of western flower thrips in
reducing spread of tomato spotted wilt virus on greenhouse tomatoes.  B.A. or B.S. in either entomology or plant pathology preferred. Contact J.R. Nechols. 

California Safe Schools Presents "United for Safety"
April 13, 2005.  Event is May 14, 2005, from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Van Nuys High School Auditorium, Van Nuys, California.  Free Admission, food and entertainment. Speakers include California assemblyman Lloyd Levine; Bill Jones, children's environmental health, education and schools coordinator US EPA Region IX; Angelo Bellomo, director, Los Angeles Unified School District, Office of Environmental Health and Safety and others. Register online, seating limited, California Safe Schools, http://www.calisafe.org or
818-785-5515.

Regional Urban/Community IPM Workshop Announced
April 13, 2005.  On June 14, 2005, a workshop in Oakland, CA will address IPM for community settings. Practitioners, policy makers, educators, activists and buildings and grounds maintenance professionals are encouraged to attend to share information on IPM for public agencies, schools, businesses, homeowners and others.  More.

Deadline for Program Proposals for Fifth National IPM Symposium Looms
April 13, 2005.  Submit a program proposal by April 15 for the Fifth National IPM Symposium, to be held April 4-6, 2006 in St. Louis.  The program provides opportunities for mini-symposia, workshops and roundtable discussions.  More.

Entomologist Wanted for Sterile Insect Release Program
April 12, 2005.  The Okanagan-Kootenay Sterile Insect Release Program is accepting applications for an entomologist with an Masters level degree and preferably Sterile Insect Release (SIR) experience.  The program operates a production, delivery and monitoring system for codling moth for 4,800 hectares of commercial orchards and 31,000 urban sites in the Okanagan, Similkameen and Creston areas of western Canada. Deadline for applications April 18. More. 

IPM Institute wins Altria Group Support
April 7, 2005.  The Altria Group, Inc., parent company of Kraft Foods and Philip Morris, has awarded a $25,000 competitive grant to the IPM Institute.  The grant is to continue efforts to provide IPM and Best Management Practice (BMP) performance guarantees to farmers who transition from conventional practices, protecting them from yield and financial losses.

South Kitsap School District Earns IPM STAR
March 8, 2005.  
South Kitsap School District, located northwest of Tacoma, Washington, is the second school district in the state to earn IPM STAR status for excellence in pest management.  The system serves 11,000 students and initiated its IPM program in 2003.  More.

Food Alliance Earns USDA Conservation Recognition
March 10, 2005.  
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has reviewed Food Alliance’s certification standards and agreed that Food Alliance certified farms and ranches are “very likely” to qualify for Conservation Security Program (CSP) payments.  CSP rewards private landowners for environmental stewardship and, the highest level of qualification, payments can run as high as $40,000 a year on 5-10 year contracts in designated watersheds.  More.

Rose Foundation Reports on Corporate Stewardship, Including IPM
March 7, 2005.  "...innovative, entrepreneurial companies can gain competitive advantage, increase profits and grow shareholder value by...responding creatively to the growing demand for environmentally preferable goods."  Excerpt from new report by World Wildlife Fund scientist for the Rose Foundation.  More.

World Wildlife Fund Releases Evaluation of Forest Stewardship Council Certification
February 28, 2005.  Report analyzes 2817 "corrective action requests" issued as part of the certification process, covering 18 million hectares of forest in five European countries and Russia.  Report tallies environmental, economic and social benefits of certification.  More.

Community/Urban IPM Conference Pre-Registration Deadline March 1
February 22, 2005.  Conference slated for March 15-16, 2005 in Manchester, New Hampshire will address a wide variety of community IPM topics, including school IPM.  Submit a poster or  pre-register to attend (Mar. 1 deadline). More.

California School IPM Advocate Named National Award Finalist
February 17, 2005.  Rubina Suwol formed California Safe Schools after seeing her children enter their school through a cloud of pesticide spray.  Her organization has successfully lobbied for IPM training and implementation in the Los Angeles Unified School District, which has adopted an IPM policy developed by Suwol and others.  Suwol is a finalist in the Third Annual Volvo for Life Awards. More.

Community/Urban IPM Conference
January 13, 2005.  Conference slated for March 15-16, 2005 in Manchester, New Hampshire will address a wide variety of community IPM topics, including school IPM. Submit a poster (Feb. 1 deadline),  pre-register or request exhibit space (Feb. 15 deadline). More.

Penn State Reports Grape IPM Success Story
February 9, 2005.  Pheromone technology is reducing damage from grape berry moth in Pennsylvania vineyards, and reducing reliance on pesticides. Pheromones mimic the natural attractant female moths emit to attract males for mating.  Releasing additional pheromone from dispensers in the vineyard confuses males and reduces mating and reproduction.  More.

New Greenhouse IPM Publication Available 
January 31, 2005.  Greenhouse IPM with an Emphasis on Biocontrol  contains more than 90 full-color images and descriptions of the most common pests in the greenhouse industry and biocontrols used to manage them.  Available as a free downloadable PDF or in hard copy by calling 1-877-345-0691. Request publication AGRS-96.

Fire Ant IPM Position  
February 22, 2005.  USDA ARS  Imported Fire Ant and Household Insects Research Unit, Gainesville, Florida seeks permanent full-time Research Entomologist to research pathogens as a part of an overall scheme of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for imported fire ants.  Salary range of $50K to $93K. More. 

First IPM STAR Structural Pest Management Service Providers Named
January 31, 2005.  PESTEC and D'Bug Lady Pest Management Co. have been evaluated and certified under the IPM STAR program for service providers.  These businesses serve the greater San Francisco and Cincinnati metropolitan areas, respectively.   More.

Call Issued for Program Proposals for Fifth National IPM Symposium & Workshop
January 31, 2005.  Submit a program proposal for the Fifth National IPM Symposium, to be held April 4-6, 2006 in St. Louis.  The program provides opportunities for mini-symposia, workshops and roundtable discussions.  The previous Symposium attracted 700 attendees from 17 countries and addressed key issues in agricultural and community IPM.  More.

USDA Post-Doctoral Positions in IPM
Dec. 20, 2004.  Two scientists are sought to research sustainable pest management strategies.  A position in Maryland is open to assess cover cropping, mulching and other cultural practices on Colorado potato beetle and other pests.  A second position, in Florida, focuses on sustainable ag strategies for weed management. 

Food Alliance Midwest Invites Extension Educators to Winter Meeting
Dec. 14, 2004.  Travel scholarships are available for Extension educators to attend the Food Alliance Midwest Annual Meeting, in the Twin Cities, Thursday, Feb. 10, 2005. Scholarships will reimburse up to 200 miles of travel. First-come, first-served, contact Ray Kirsch at (651) 653-0618.

Dubuque Community School District Earns IPM STAR Award
Dec. 9, 2004.  IPM STAR schools volunteer to undergo a rigorous, fifty-point evaluation.  Dubuque made a rapid shift to IPM after a cockroach problem led to local press coverage.  More.

Northeast Community/Urban IPM Conference Set
Dec. 6, 2004.  Conference slated for March 15-16, 2005 in Manchester, New Hampshire will address a wide variety of community IPM topics, including school IPM.  More.

Washington Elementary School District #6 Joins Ranks of IPM STAR Schools
Nov. 18, 2004.  Washington Elementary School District #6, serving parts of Phoenix and Glendale, Arizona, has earned IPM STAR certification. Larry Schmeits, with 22 years experience in professional pest management, runs the district's program. More.

Milwaukee Public Schools Earns IPM STAR
Nov. 18, 2004.  Milwaukee Public Schools, serving 103,000 Wisconsin students, has achieved IPM STAR status. The school system maintains exceptionally high standards for sanitation, clutter control and regular inspection of school facilities by maintenance supervisors. More

Monroe County Community Schools is an IPM STAR
Nov. 5, 2004.  Monroe County Community Schools Corporation has become the ninth school system nationwide to meet the IPM STAR standard for excellence in managing pests and pesticide hazards.  The system serves 10,000 students in the Bloomington, Indiana area.  More.

National, State Contact List for Worker Pesticide Safety Released
November 4, 2004.  EPA Worker Safety Program staff at the federal, regional and state levels are listed with contact information in this comprehensive directory.  MS Word Document.

International IPM Effort Awarded Five-Year Extension
Oct. 28, 2004.  The Integrated Pest Management Collaborative Research Support Program, or IPM CRSP, was recently awarded a five-year, $17-million grant to initiate new IPM activities through competitive grants for regional pest management programs in developing countries.  More.

Auburn City Schools Earns IPM STAR Certification
Oct. 12, 2004.  Auburn City Schools in Auburn Alabama has successfully met the qualifications for IPM STAR status.  The school system implemented IPM through the "Monroe Model" which is now being exported to additional schools throughout the state.  More.

UN Report on Pesticide Risks and Children Released
Oct. 7, 2004.  Child Pesticide Poisoning: Information for Advocacy and Action, a joint study by FAO, the UN Environment Program and the World Health Organization reports children are at greater risk in developing countries, where 99% of pesticide poisonings occur.  
 Go to press release.

Chemical Reaction: Pest Control Enters an Environmentally Friendly Era
Oct. 7, 2004.  Article in Health Facilities Management Magazine details results of a 2003 survey of hospitals on pest management practices and describes least-toxic solutions to common problems.  By Karen Sandrick. Go to article.

Vancouver Public Schools Awarded IPM STAR Certification
Sept. 24, 2004.  The public school system in Vancouver, WA has earned IPM STAR certification by undergoing a rigorous, on-site evaluation and implementing recommended improvements.  Presentation of the award is scheduled for Monday, September 27, at a board of directors meeting in Vancouver.  More.

Protected Harvest Receives $1 Million Grant
Sept. 16, 2004.  The US Department of Agriculture has awarded Protected Harvest, an IPM-based eco-label, funding to create an incentive based program to improve stewardship in California peach production.  Full list of funded projects.. 

US EPA Names IPM Institute 2004 PESP Champion
Sept. 14, 2004.  The US Environmental Protection Agency's Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP) announced its 2004 Champions, including the IPM Institute.  The award recognizes the IPM STAR certification program for schools.  More.

States Sue HUD over IPM in Public Housing
Sept. 13, 2004.  State Attorneys General from five states and one territory (CT, IL, NM, NY, WI and USVI) have joined in a lawsuit against the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to force IPM adoption to reduce pesticide use in public housing, as required by federal law. More.

New Thrips Guide
Sept. 13, 2004.  Thrips of the World is designed to aid identification of 99 thrips species found worldwide. Key includes microscopic images of key characters, plus molecular key to 55 species.  More.

Millikan School Green Flag Winner
Sept. 12, 2004.  Millikan School in the Los Angeles Unified School District has received the Green Flag environmental award from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, in collaboration with California Safe Schools.  More.

New IPM Gardening Title
Sept. 3, 2004: IPM for Gardeners: A Guide to Integrated Pest Management, a new book from Timber Press, Inc., hits stores this month.  The 252-page book includes the basics and the details of using integrated pest management while gardening.  For more details, contact Timber Press. 

Dine Fresh, Dine Local
Sept. 10, 2004.  On Tuesday, October 5th, a special one-day culinary event will take place at select restaurants across Minnesota's Twin Cities. Dine Fresh Dine Local will bring together consumers and celebrate partnerships between restaurants and local sustainable and organic farmers. For more details, visit www.dinefreshdinelocal.com

IR-4 Management Position
Sept. 13, 2004.  Scientist wanted to manage IR-4 crop protection product and biopesticide  research and registration for non-food horticulture crops. Open until October 15.  

BPIA Seeks Director
Sept. 7, 2004. The Biopesticide Industry Alliance seeks an executive director to provide staff support.  The association advocates for and supports it member companies, which manufacture microbial and biochemical pest controls.  More.

Rutgers Seeks Extension Specialists in Berry Entomology 
Aug. 24, 2004: Extension specialist is responsible for the leadership, development, implementation and evaluation of a statewide research-based educational program in cooperation with county extension personnel. More.

Sun Valley School Honored for IPM and Recycling
Aug. 24, 2004: Since winning the prestigious Green Flag Award last year, Sun Valley Middle School has strengthened its existing on-campus award-related programs and also has begun the implementation of an ambitious campus-wide public-private partnership comprehensive campus recycling program. Full article.

Food Alliance Welcomes New Board Members
Aug. 24, 2004: Food Alliance, one of the country's leading eco-labels and an influential voice for sustainable agriculture, recently added five new members to its board of directors. Full article.

Univ. of Florida Seeks Pesticide Info. Coordinator 
July 30, 2004: Pesticide Information Coordinator will work closely with state and county faculty to develop, design, and implement pesticide safety education programs to meet specific needs of target clientele. More.

Univ. of Arizona Seeks IPM Program Manager 
July 30, 2004: IPM Program Manager will help lead and implement programs of the newly-formed Arizona Pest Management Center, an interdisciplinary team of extension and research specialists More.

Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln Seeks IPM Extension Agent 
July 29, 2004: IPM Extension Agent duties include assisting the Extension Educator for Pesticide Education in the implementation of the IPM for Schools Program and the Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP). More.

Bay Area Gov. Seeks Communications Officer 
July 29, 2004: The San Francisco Estuary Project has been awarded PRISM grant funds from the State Water Resources Control Board to implement the Urban Pesticide Pollution Prevention (UP3) Project. Communications Officer will implement the main elements of the UP3 Project and foster effective outreach, education, and other municipal actions to reduce pesticide-related toxicity in Bay Area urban creeks. More.

IPM Standards for Schools Updated
July 29, 2004: The IPM Institute's Standards for Schools has recently been updated. Version 3.2 includes minor updates to website urls. Version 3.0 had been revised to become a companion document to the IPM STAR^® certification program. More.

Scientists Worry IPM Tenets Ignored
July 29, 2004: Were some soybean growers in Illinois recently persuaded to unnecessarily and uneconomically apply insecticides when insect pests were not present near economically threatening levels? Two highly respected IPM entomologists think so and have publicly said exactly that in issue 18 of the Pest Management & Crop Development Bulletin, found at http://www.ipm.uiuc.edu/bulletin/ contents.php. More.

ATTRA IPM Field Guide Now in Spanish
July 29, 2004: The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service presents a new series of Spanish-language pictorial field guides to organic IPM.  For more information, call 1-800-346-9140. 

CA Safe Schools Partners With Celebrated Artist 
July 27, 2004: Los Angeles, CA --Imagination can make kids laugh, but it can also save their lives. That's why the California Safe Schools Coalition partnered with internationally celebrated artist Michael Bruza to launch an innovative children's safety poster campaign aimed at reducing pests without the use of pesticides. Full article.

Investigators Arrest Microb Phase President
July 27, 2004: Man accused of defrauding schools in remediating air quality problems he identified "falsely and fraudulently representing that the product that he applied was registered with the EPA and that his remediation program was approved by the EPA." Full article.

Three New Publications from Univ. of California 
July 23, 2004: The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources announces three new publications. Pests of Landscape Trees & Shrubs: An Integrated Pest Management Guide- Second Edition, Abiotic Disorders of Landscape Plants- A Diagnostic Guide and Aquatic and Riparian Weeds of the West.  To order, call 1-800-994-8849 or visit http://anrcatalog.ucdavis.edu.

Ornamental IPM Job Opportunity 
July 21, 2004: Individual will facilitate the statewide demonstration and implementation of IPM practices for nursery and greenhouse crops, and sod production farms. More.

Awards Honor Best at IPM 
July 21, 2004: Orkin Commercial Services is honoring top practitioners of IPM, announcing its first-ever Gold Medal IPM Partner Awards – co-presented by The IPM Institute of North America and Today’s Facility Manager magazine – and the nine facilities selected as finalists for the award. Full article.

Parents Want Pesticides Out of Schools 
July 21, 2004: While many voters are looking at candidates' positions on student discipline, budgetary concerns and low test scores in Tuesday's school board election, a group of parents and teachers is focusing on a health issue. They want the Durham Public Schools to implement a new pest control policy that doesn't use chemicals proven to be harmful to people. Full article.

Read July IPM Institute Newsletter Online 
July 19, 2004: Read the July issue of the IPM Institute newsletter online. Click here.

Ontario Farmers Reduce Pesticide Use by 52% 
July 12, 2004: Ontario farmers have, once again, shown exceptional leadership in environmental stewardship, reducing their use of pesticides by 52% since 1983.
Full article.

Aldama Elementary Students Take Pride in Keeping Green 
July 8, 2004: At Aldama Elementary in Los Angeles, California, teachers are busy handing out "good money" to students observed picking up trash around campus. The names of students are pulled from the "good money" box at assemblies, and these students are awarded prizes. Students know that having less trash on campus means having less pests. They also know it's easier to keep pests away than to get rid of them once they arrive. Full article.

IPM Job Opportunity 
July 7, 2004: Co-Director/Associate Director will manage a regional information network that provides ready access to reliable IPM information for diverse clientele. More.

Composting Reduces Pests in Poultry Farms 
July 7, 2004: An improved composting technique reduces flies and other pest populations in commercial poultry production, Penn State researchers recently discovered. Full article. 

Two New Articles on IPM in Child Care Settings 
July 1, 2004: Al Fournier of Purdue University has written two articles, one published in Healthy Childcare (Vol. 7, Issue 4), addressing “Outdoor Pest Problems” in child care settings. The second, published in July's Pest Control is entitled “Childcare IPM” and focuses on IPM in childcare as a business opportunity for professionals.  

Southwest Tech Resource Center Announces IPM Pride Awards 
June 28, 2004: In 1995, Texas enacted the School IPM law.  Last year, the Southwest Technical Resource Center for IPM in Schools began its annual IPM Pride Award program.  This year four school districts have been recognized for their outstanding pest management efforts. 

New Indiana Child Care Policy/IPM Brochure 
June 28, 2004: A new brochure for Indiana child care providers is now posted on the IPM Technical Resource Center website. The brochure highlights the Indiana Model Pest Management Policy for child care providers and includes other valuable information. Available in PDF format. 

Publication on Management of Pest Resistance
June 18, 2004: Growers now have access to timely and accurate pest prediction maps for key insect and weed species to help them plan their pest management activities. Insect prediction maps for crops such as corn and alfalfa are now available on the Web. Full article.

Information on Least-Risk Microbial Cleansers for Schools
June 18, 2004: Scroll to the bottom of the page for "New site additions and updates" or click here for links to information on least-risk microbial cleansers.

CDROM Tutorials for Pesticide Applicators 
June 18, 2004: Almost everything you need to know about pests and pesticides is available in a series of CD-ROMs developed by Thomas Fasulo, a University of Florida entomologist. The 33 tutorials cover everything from harmful to beneficial insects, plus information on pesticide safety, labeling and emergency responses. Website.

Publication on Management of Pest Resistance
June 15, 2004: The Council for Agricultural Science and Technology is releasing a special publication entitled "Management of Pest Resistance: Strategies Using Crop Management, Biotechnology, and Pesticides," a publication of presentations and discussions from a 2-day national symposium held in April in Indianapolis, Indiana. Full article. 

Anne Arundel County Public Schools is IPM Star School
June 14, 2004: Today, Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) was awarded the IPM STAR certificate from the IPM Institute in recognition of its comprehensive school pest management program. More.  

Fifth National IPM Symposium
June 9, 2004: The Fifth National IPM Symposium, "Delivering on a Promise," will be held in St. Louis, MO on April 4-6, 2006 at the Adams Mark Hotel. More.  

Model School IPM Plan for New Jersey Schools
June 9, 2004: The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and Rutgers Cooperative Extension have jointly developed the Model School IPM Plan for New Jersey Schools that can be adapted and adopted by individual schools. The Model provides schools with a plan template designed for compliance with the December 2002 New Jersey School IPM Act.

Pittsburgh Public Schools Certified Under IPM Star
May 25, 2004: The Pittsburgh School District recently became the fifth school district in the nation and the first in Pennsylvania to become IPM STAR certified by the IPM Institute of North America in recognition of its school integrated pest management program. More information.

Audit Finds Schools Ignoring Pesticide Protection Law
May 25, 2004: More than 80 percent of schools and child care centers failed to comply with a state law governing pesticide use, and the state agency in charge of oversight has failed to enforce the law, according to an audit released Monday. Full article.

Pesticide Fumes Drift into School
May 21, 2004: (AP) GRAND TERRACE, Calif. - Pesticide fumes drifted into an elementary school Wednesday, causing 21 students to get sick and be transported to the hospital, authorities said.  The fumes came from a broken 12-ounce bottle of malathion found in a vacant field next to Terrace View Elementary School, said county Fire Department spokeswoman Tracy Martinez.  

"It became very breezy. Some fumes hit the school," she said. "It was low dosage. It wasn't commercial grade."  

Authorities did not immediately know how the pesticide got there, Martinez said.  School officials reported the incident at about 2 p.m., said fire dispatch supervisor Tom Barnes.  The children complained of nausea and stomach cramps, authorities said.  Martinez said students were released early but will resume a regular scheduled Thursday.

Safer Pest Control Creates IPM Manual for Park Districts
May 20, 2004: Safer Pest Control, the not-for-profit organization dedicated to reducing public health risks and environmental impacts, has prepared a freely available manual, IPM for Park Districts.  This 80-page document discusses what compiler-editor J.Q. Knight refers to as "safe, effective, and cost efficient methods for controlling" four main groups of pests. The illustrated
publication includes numerous sample documents from parks and other organiza-
tions that have adopted reduced risk pest management strategies. It can be downloaded in PDF format from http://www.spcpweb.org/pdmanual.pdf.

Article Pushes for Keeping Apartments Pest-Free Using IPM
May 20, 2004: The June 2004 issue of The National Apartment Association's UNITS magazine contains an article entitled "Scram: Keeping Apartments Pest-Free, Without Toxic Pesticides."  The article promotes using IPM as a way to control pests without pesticides.  Full article. 

Survey of Washington Schools Finds Most Use Highly Toxic Pesticides
May 14, 2004: Washington Toxics Report Coalition recently looked at 50 school district's pesticide use in the state of Washington.  They found that 96 percent use pesticides linked to cancer, nervous system damage, reproductive or developmental harm, or endocrine disruption. More.

Measure Intended to Guard Against Pesticide Risk
May 7, 2004: On a sunny Earth Day afternoon, Gov. James E. McGreevey appeared Thursday at the Campbell School in Metuchen to announce that an initiative to protect schoolchildren from pesticide exposure is slated to take effect in June. Full article.

Corn Rootworm IPM Guaranty Project Underway
April 7, 2004: Approximately 50 percent of continuous corn acres are treated with soil insecticide for control of Corn Rootworm (CRW) larvae.  Many of these applications could be avoided with the use of crop scouting and IPM treatment thresholds.  This new project will establish “check,” or comparison strips on participating fields that were scouted and found to be below threshold for CRW. The check strips will receive a soil insecticide or Yieldgard® Rootworm variety. The balance of the field will not be treated for rootworm. Rootworm feeding damage, lodging and yield at harvest will be compared between the check strip and the untreated portion of the field, and farmers will be compensated if unacceptable damage results. More.

Ten PESP Grants Funded 
Apr 1, 2004: The IPM Institute of North America, Inc. is represented on the NFIPME board and grants review panel for ten PESP grants that have been recently funded.  List of ten grants.

Chicago Rodent Inspectors Take Tough Job
Mar 26, 2004: Anthony Williams is one of about 30 rodent inspectors a day who scour every classroom, boiler room, kitchen and closet in the nation's third-largest school district after a spate of school closures prompted Chicago schools chief Arne Duncan to publicly call workers on the carpet in January. Full article.

Single Mom Spearheads Spray Fight
Mar 26, 2004: Robina Suwol was dropping her sons off at Sherman Oaks Elementary School one sunny spring day when she saw a man wearing a hazardous-materials suit spraying the side of a building.  Since then, Suwol has founded a nationally recognized program in the Los Angeles Unified School District that alerts parents to the use of chemical sprays on school campuses. Full article.

Asthma and Pesticides in Public Schools 
Mar 26, 2004: Boston College Environmental Affairs Law Review recently published an article on asthma and pesticides in public schools. The abstract notes that, for students suffering from asthma exacerbated or induced by chemical pesticide use, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may provide a remedy to enjoin the use of chemical pesticides in public schools. Full article.

Michigan Requires Pesticide Notices at Schools
Mar 25, 2004: Michigan has a new law that requires schools and day care centers to notify parents or legal guardians of children at least 48 hours in advance that pesticides will be applied to the school’s or center’s property. Full article.

State Agencies and Partners Sign Agreement on Pesticide Use in Schools
Mar 25, 2004: State officials, business leaders and community partners came together March 4 at Raleigh’s Centennial Campus Middle School to sign an accord recommending a smarter approach to pest control for North Carolina’s schools. More.

Community IPM Program Receives EPA Urban Initiative Grant
Mar 25, 2004: Pests and pesticide use in and around schools and other urban dwellings often result in unhealthy indoor and outdoor environments. Reducing these risks through community outreach is the goal of a Penn State educational program recently awarded an EPA Urban Initiative Program Grant. Full article.

Food Alliance Announces 2004 Keepers of the Vision Awardees
Mar 25, 2004: On February 26 Food Alliance hosted its annual recognition dinner and announced its 2004 Keepers of the Vision award winners. These awards were created five years ago to recognize outstanding environmental and social stewardship in the agricultural field.

Food Alliance Hosts Three Course Benefit Dinner
Mar 25, 2004: The Food Alliance will host a three course benefit dinner at ripe in Portland, Oregon this Monday, March 29.

Kyrene School District Achieves IPM STAR Certification
Feb 26, 2004: Kyrene School District, with 26 schools and more than 20,000 students, faculty and staff, has reduced pesticide use by 90% and pest problems by 85% since they began their IPM program in 2000.  This winter, Kyrene's IPM program was audited by the IPM Institute in cooperation with University of Arizona Extension, and certified under the IPM STAR program. More.

Second Annual IPM Pride Award Competition Announced
Jan 22, 2004:  The Southwest Technical Resource Center for IPM in Schools and Institutions has announced its second annual IPM Pride Award competition. This award is given to school districts making successful transitions from traditional pest control programs to integrated pest management.  Deadline for entries is April 15. 

Newton Public Schools certified as an IPM STAR School System
Feb 4, 2004: Newton Public Schools, Newton, MA was awarded the IPM STAR Certification today in a ceremony in the mayor's office.  The Newton system includes 15 elementary, 4 middle and 2 high schools plus a pre-school program. Total K-12 enrollment is currently 11, 276 students. The City of Newton was the first community in Massachusetts to develop a city-wide IPM policy, drafted in 1998 by a diverse, eight-member IPM advisory committee. Newton joins New York City Board of Education, which was certified in 2003.

Callers Take Advantage of IPM Hotline 
Feb 25, 2004:  Growers looking for latest information on pest infestations affecting their crops and homeowners with pest problems are increasingly relying on 1-800-PENN-IPM. The toll-free hotline
that informs callers on the latest information about pests and pest
management received over 4,000 calls last year, its 11th year of operation. Full article.

Food Alliance Partners With Burgerville 
Feb 23, 2004:  Food Alliance, one of the nation's leading certification organizations for environmentally friendly and socially responsible agricultural practices, has added Vancouver, Washingston-based Burgerville Restaurants to its roster. Full article.

Californians for Pesticide Reform Seeks State Field Coordinator
Feb 20, 2004:  Californians for Pesticide Reform (CPR) is seeking a full-time staff person to build and utilize statewide field capacity. CPR is a statewide coalition of over 170 organizations committed to eliminating hazardous pesticides, reducing all pesticide use, promoting least toxic pest control and defending and expanding the publics right to know about pesticide use and health impacts.

Food Alliance Names New Executive Director
Feb 4, 2004:  Scott Exo, director of Northwest programs since 1999, will replace Deborah Kane, who served as executive director since Food Alliance's incorporation in 1997. Ms. Kane will remain involved in Food Alliance's market development and consulting work. Full article.

Amish and Mennonite Greenhouse Growers Reduce Pesticide Use Through IPM
Feb 5, 2004: Amish and Mennonite greenhouse growers in Lancaster County have been able to reduce their use of pesticides through an IPM training program. Full article.

Alabama Man Pleads Guilty to 28 Counts in Pesticide Case
Jan 29, 2003: William C. Murphy of Glencoe, Alabama, pled guilty on Jan. 5 to 17 counts of violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act and 11 counts of trafficking in counterfeit goods.  Operating under the company name of Sierra Chemical, the defendant sold counterfeit, misbranded, adulterated and/or mislabeled pesticides to numerous municipalities in Alabama and Georgia. Full article. 

Philadelphia School Benefits from Penn State Service Learning Project
Jan 22, 2004:  A new Penn State service learning project at Shaw Middle School in West Philadelphia will try to alleviate unhealthy indoor environments by empowering students, teachers and the community to implement Integrated Pest Management. Full article.

Students Get More Than Calcium From Milk
Jan 22, 2004:  The California Safe Schools Coalition and Los Angeles Unified Board member David Tokofsky, were joined by political leaders, educators, and children's health advocates as they
unveiled new milk cartons that deliver important safety messages to kids. Full article.

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