Abstract Farmers cite lack of knowledge as a key barrier to further integrated pest management uptake. An online integrated pest management tool was developed to provide guidance on integrated pest management. The user enters information about the crops they are growing and pests (invertebrate pests, weeds, and diseases) of concern in their farming system. The integrated pest management tool guides users toward effective control measures, provides independent information on each intervention, and records implementation as an integrated pest management plan. The integrated pest management tool was tested by farmers and advisors. To survey their views, interpretation, and experiences of using the integrated pest management tool, data were analyzed from questionnaires and interviews completed by 82 and 44 users, respectively, and from 231 integrated pest management plans produced using the integrated pest management tool. Feedback from test users showed high levels of satisfaction. Insights were gained into enablers and barriers to using the integrated pest management tool and to the use of integrated pest management more generally. integrated pest management plans created by test users recorded substantial increases in their commitment to use integrated pest management practices. Improvements to the integrated pest management tool were made based on the user feedback and it was released for free public use. Within 12 mo of release, 1,096 registered users in the United Kingdom had created 1,746 integrated pest management plans.

Abstract The sugarcane woolly aphid, Ceratovacuna lanigera Zehntner, 1897 (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Hormaphidinae) is a major agricultural pest originally described from Java, Indonesia. We report the first confirmed occurrence of C. lanigera in South Korea, supported by morphological characterization using light microscopy and molecular identification based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences. Sugarcane-growing regions in southern Korea, particularly Jeju Island, are at elevated risk of infestation. Proactive monitoring and implementation of targeted management strategies are essential to mitigate the potential economic and ecological impacts of this invasive species on South Korea’s agricultural systems.

Abstract The Rhodesgrass mealybug, Antonina graminis Maskell (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is a serious pest of grasses (Poaceae). On golf course putting greens, nymphs and adults of A. graminis feed on vascular bundles, which initially appear as yellowing and stunting but gradually develop into browning and severe thinning by the fall. In this paper, we review the biology and management options for A. graminis problems in turfgrass, especially in golf courses in the southern United States. Because most of the research on A. graminis has been conducted in pasture systems and the biology of A. graminis rarely varies between pasture and turfgrass systems, research conducted in pastures is discussed in this paper.

Abstract Trapping is an important method for controlling pocket gophers. However, the difficulty of setting certain pocket gopher traps presents a barrier to their use. This study evaluates 5 common pocket gopher traps with differing operational mechanisms to determine which design(s) are easiest for applicators to set, using both objective and subjective criteria. The findings aim to assist individuals in selecting traps that match their trap-setting capabilities. Additionally, we describe a tool designed to assist individuals in setting more challenging traps in the field.

Abstract Browntail moth, Euproctis chrysorrhoea (L.) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae), is a long-established invasive outbreaking public health and tree pest that once spanned large areas of the northeastern United States and Maritime Canada. Its current range is Maine and Cape Cod, Massachusetts. A recent outbreak began in Maine in 2015 and has spread to areas where it has not been seen in over 75 yr. Historically, pest management during the outbreaks occurred at all levels, including state and federal, but current management is largely the responsibility of homeowners and municipalities. To understand Maine residents’ experiences with browntail moth and thoughts on management methods, a survey questionnaire was conducted. More than 10,000 participants were invited through mail and volunteer sampling, with over 3,200 usable responses. The survey also included an experiment that tested whether a list of pros and cons would affect approval of different management methods. Respondents reported seeking out browntail moth information and pesticide guidance from multiple sources including state resources and social media. Analyses found that previous experience with management methods and missing work due to the rash caused by the larvae setae were important factors influencing management approval, whereas providing a list of pros and cons was found to be a conditional predictor. Overall, respondents preferred management methods with minimal nontarget effects and wanted more information about local browntail moth management plans. This is the first published survey conducted during a browntail moth outbreak in Maine and provides important insights that could help guide future browntail moth management, policies, and research.

Abstract Recent changes to entomological agricultural extension in Alberta, Canada provide opportunities to evaluate the effectiveness of the system and identify avenues for growth and collaboration among stakeholders. Extension professionals need to understand producer priorities, the effectiveness of extension efforts, and the best modes of communication for efficient information exchange. In this study, we develop, implement, and analyze a scientific survey to understand the priorities, needs, and preferences for entomological and pest management information of agricultural producers in Alberta, Canada. The cost and the loss of chemical control options were identified as the most critical pest management issues facing producers, while extension issues were viewed as less important. In addition to the expected pest control priorities, the survey revealed that producers value and promote the conservation of beneficial insects. Producers trust both traditional and digital communication methods, but the use and trust of resources are not always aligned. Survey results provide insights into potential opportunities to improve extension in Alberta by addressing key pest and extension issues.

Abstract Alfalfa mosaic virus (Martellivirales: Bromoviridae) is transmitted by several aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) species and is known to infect over 600 different plant species worldwide. In 2019, Alfalfa mosaic virus was documented in chile peppers, Capsicum spp. L. (Solanales: Solanaceae), in Colorado for the first time and has caused major yield losses since. The disease has recently also caused severe losses to chile pepper production in California. Symptoms of Alfalfa mosaic virus in chile peppers include severe vein and leaf deformation, leaf curling, and mosaic chlorosis and necrosis of leaves. Infected plants may also exhibit deformities and discoloration of fruit, reducing both yield quality and quantity. Aphids that transmit Alfalfa mosaic virus do so in a nonpersistent manner, which means that the virus is limited to the aphid mouthparts and can be acquired and transmitted within seconds to minutes. Aphids that transmit the virus in Colorado chile peppers do not colonize or habitually feed on the crop but instead infect peppers by inserting their mouthparts into plant tissue while testing plants for host suitability. The nature of the virus and its aphid vectors in chile peppers makes effective management of Alfalfa mosaic virus difficult for Colorado farmers. Here, we summarize pepper production in the United States, Alfalfa mosaic virus distribution and its impact, and the mechanism of Alfalfa mosaic virus transmission. Lastly, we review current management strategies for Alfalfa mosaic virus, discuss potential risks of infection, and identify future research needs for integrated pest management program to suppress this disease in peppers.

Abstract Corn and soybeans account for most of the agricultural land use in Iowa. Farmers must manage insect pests feeding on these crops throughout the growing season. Western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), and soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), are currently considered the most important pests of corn and soybean, respectively, in Iowa. We explore the rates at which genetic resistance has developed in these pests, tactics to delay resistance evolution, and the relative success of these methods. The documented occurrence of Bt-resistant (Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner) western corn rootworm in Iowa is greater than for pyrethroid-resistant aphids. The perceived risk of resistance and adoption of insect resistance management strategies by farmers for each pest may be more critical than which pest has evolved resistance faster. While farmers are required to practice insect resistance management when using Bt corn for western corn rootworm, similar requirements do not exist for using insecticides for soybean aphid. We suggest that more robust insect resistance management strategies along with integrated pest management practices need to be adopted for both species. Specifically, for soybean aphid, scouting and monitoring soybean fields throughout the summer and following the economic threshold to decide on the need for foliar insecticide applications is strongly recommended. For western corn rootworm, insect resistance management strategies, such as crop rotation and the mandatory use of refuge when planting Bt corn are recommended. Farmers’ compliance to insect resistance management and integrated pest management practices impacts the rates of resistance evolution to management tactics for these pests.

Abstract Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a critical strategy for sustainable agriculture, aiming to minimize risks associated with the use of chemical pesticides while managing pest populations effectively. This article compares agricultural IPM implementation strategies, evaluation, and monitoring mechanisms in the European Union (EU) and the United States, highlighting their strengths and challenges. The comparative analysis focuses on regulatory frameworks, implementation strategies, compliance, and enforcement, providing insights into refining global IPM practices for enhanced agricultural sustainability. However, with the recent withdrawal of the EU’s Sustainable Use of Pesticides Regulation, the future of pesticide reduction goals in the EU remains uncertain. This evolving policy landscape provides a timely opportunity to reassess IPM strategies in both regions.

Abstract While the goal of sustainable pest management programs is to promote the adoption of sustainable practices among growers, the effectiveness of these programs varies across different contexts. Assessment of the farmers’ actual adoption of the practices is a crucial measure for evaluating the training program’s effectiveness. Using a primary survey of specialty crop growers in Tennessee, we examined the adoption of sustainable pest management practices with particular attention to the roles of various training sources. Our results suggest that the training delivered by extension specialists and master gardeners has significantly positive effects on the adoption of these practices. Additionally, the grower’s knowledge level of integrated pest management, level of education, and training received from university faculty members positively influenced the adoption of good pest management practices (GMPs) while larger land acreage holdings had a negative impact on the adoption of GMPs. We also found that the growers prefer shorter training sessions with integration of online and visual-based learning tools.