Grant Information

STATEWIDE EXTENSION IPM COORDINATION PROGRAM FOR AUBURN UNIVERSITY AND ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM FOR 2014-2017

Sponsoring Institution National Institute of Food and Agriculture

Program EIP - Extension Implementation Program

Status COMPLETE

Funding Source OTHER GRANTS

Division NIFA Non Formula

Reporting Frequency Annual

Project Director Fadamiro, Henry

Accession Number 1004756

Grant Number 2014-70006-22575

Project Number ALAN2014-07491

Proposal Number 2014-07491

Dates 2014-09-01 - 2017-08-31

Grant Year 2016

Cumulative Award Amount $460,000.00

Animal Health Component 100%

Performing Department Entomology & Plant Pathology

Recipient Organization AUBURN UNIVERSITY
108 M. WHITE SMITH HALL
AUBURN,AL 36849

Keywords alabama cooperative extension system
auburn university
extension
ipm
tuskegee university

Research Effort Applied (100%)
Basic (0%)
Developmental (0%)

Classification Parameters

Knowledge Area	Subject of Investigation	Field of Science	Percent
216 - Integrated Pest Management Systems	2499 - Plant research, general	1160 - Pathology	20%
216 - Integrated Pest Management Systems	3110 - Insects	1130 - Entomology and acarology	20%
211 - Insects, Mites, and Other Arthropods Affecting Plants	1114 - Peach	1130 - Entomology and acarology	10%
211 - Insects, Mites, and Other Arthropods Affecting Plants	1440 - Cole crops (includes cabbage, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kohlrabi)	1130 - Entomology and acarology	10%
211 - Insects, Mites, and Other Arthropods Affecting Plants	1719 - Cotton, other	1130 - Entomology and acarology	10%
212 - Pathogens and Nematodes Affecting Plants	1599 - Grain crops, general/other (includes buckwheat, millet, triticale)	1160 - Pathology	10%
212 - Pathogens and Nematodes Affecting Plants	1719 - Cotton, other	1160 - Pathology	10%
213 - Weeds Affecting Plants	2499 - Plant research, general	1140 - Weed science	10%

Non-technical Summary

This is an EIP Extension Implementation project to support the Statewide Extension IPM program at Auburn University (AU) and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES). The goal is to facilitate implementation of IPM practices in Alabama. The program is driven by stakeholder needs and supported by faculty and extension specialists at Alabama's 1862 and 1890 land grants, stakeholders, and IPM Advisory committees. This proposal requests funding for five program area priorities: i) IPM Implementation in Agronomic Crops, ii) IPM Implementation in Specialty Crops (including support for Tuskegee Universities), iii) IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities, iv) IPM Implementation in Housing, and v) IPM Implementation in Schools. The IPM Coordinator (Henry Fadamiro, PD) will lead and coordinate the program with input from the Administrative Lead (Paul Mask), Co-PDs, and other stakeholders. Specific activities include IPM team building, pest monitoring/scouting, IPM training and demonstrations, information dissemination, producer presentations and webinars, applied research, and IPM impact evaluation. Key outputs will include Extension publications, newsletters, peer-reviewed publications, and new IPM tools. The expected outcomes of this project include increased knowledge and adoption of economically viable IPM methods/tools by stakeholders, reduced pesticide misuse and reduced potential for human health risks from pesticide use in foods, schools, and the environment. The program is relevant to the goals of the National IPM Roadmap and the goals of the CPPM program by assuring IPM implementation through extension activities and coordination and fostering communication among stakeholders and education of the next generation of IPM practitioners.

Goals / Objectives

The Alabama (AL) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program at Auburn University is an interdisciplinary and collaborative effort within the AL Cooperative Extension System (ACES). The goal of the program is to facilitate implementation and adoption of economically and environmentally sound IPM practices in traditional agriculture and non-traditional settings in AL. This goal aligns with the goals identified in the National IPM Roadmap and is consistent with the ACES mission of providing educational opportunities and information grounded in research-based science to targeted audiences in AL. The program is a collaborative effort between AL's 1862 land grant, Auburn University (AU) and the state's two 1890 land grant institutions: Alabama A&M University (AAMU) and Tuskegee University (TU). This collaboration is fostered by ACES' unique strength operates as the primary outreach organization for the land-grant functions of Alabama A&M and Auburn Universitiesas the primary outreach organization for the land grant functions of AAMU and AU. This Extension Implementation Program (EIP) proposal addresses a total of five program area priorities (2 primary and 3 secondary priorities) described in the RFA (see Appendix 1 for Logic Model for the overall program). These are: 1) IPM Implementation in Agronomic Crops; 2) IPM Implementation in Specialty Crops; 3) IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities; 4) IPM Training and Implementation in Housing; and 5) IPM Training and Implementation in Schools. The key objectives of this EIP proposal are to:

Support the goals of the National IPM Roadmap by promoting IPM adoption in AL through direct training and dissemination of research-based IPM information to stakeholders
Help producers and other pest managers in AL gain confidence in alternative pest management practices through training and demonstration
Promote interdisciplinary cooperation among faculty, applied researchers, Extension specialists, and Regional Extension Agents (REAs) involved in IPM development and delivery
Facilitate IPM team building, communication and stakeholder input through Advisory committees and other methods
Facilitate IPM delivery to stakeholders via timely access to IPM information to enhance IPM decision making
Conduct pest monitoring and integrated on-farm/on-station applied research and demonstration as a tool to increase knowledge and adoption of IPM among diverse clientele
Conduct training programs for Extension agents, consultants, scouts, growers, and other stakeholders to enhance IPM adoption on large farms
Provide technical assistance and troubleshooting (e.g., pest diagnosis) to stakeholders
Facilitate collaboration among AL's 1862 and 1890 land grants
Evaluate behavior changes, impacts and barriers to IPM adoption among clientele

Methods (unparsed)

This project has five emphasis areas: i) IPM Implementation for Agronomic Crops, ii) IPM Implementation for Specialty Crops), iii) IPM Support for Pest Diagnostic Facilities, iv) IPM Training and Implementation in Housing, and v) IPM Training and Implementation in Schools. The IPM Coordinator will i) coordinate and administer Alabama's IPM program, ii) maintain and update AL IPM website, iii) organize training workshops and on-farm demonstrations, iv) pest monitoring; v) conduct applied research on IPM (e.g., evaluation of IPM tactics and new products), vi) assist in the development of Extension publications such as the Alabama IPM Communicator Newsletter, educational bulletins, magazine and newspaper articles, and IPM guides, vii) publish scientific articles, ix) present results of IPM research and their implications to stakeholders, x) coordinate IPM working groups in the state for quick response to new issues and pest threats, xi) teach IPM-related courses to students, xii) coordinate, identify and apply for extramural funding to support AL's IPM program, and xiii) work with AL's 1890 institutions to promote IPM adoption by limited resource producers, xiv) supervise/train Extension assistant/other program staff, and xv) coordinate and report on state IPM activities. Partners include Extension and research faculty, Extension specialists, REAs, producers, growers associations, crop consultants, state agencies such as AL Dep. of Ag. & Ind. and federal agencies such as USDA, Southern Region IPM Center, and EPA. Activities proposed for the various emphasis areas include: i) training workshops and on-farm demonstrations, ii) pest monitoring; iii) applied research on IPM (e.g., evaluation of IPM tactics and new products), iv) development of extension publications such as fact sheets, and IPM guides, v) publication of scientific articles, vi) presentation of results of IPM research and activities at stakeholders meetings, vii) stakeholder assessment through surveys, and viii) IPM impact evaluation.

Project Timeline Tracking

09/01/14 to 08/31/17
09/01/15 to 08/31/16
09/01/14 to 08/31/15

Outputs

Target Audience
Target audiences include row crop farmers, fruit and vegetable growers, organic/low input growers, schools, housing authorities, and the entire public.

Changes / Problems
Nothing Reported

Training & Professional Development
IPM Coordination: Coordinated extension IPM efforts. Developed/revised IPM priorities. Managed IPM Advisory and Impact Evaluation committees. Facilitated IPM collaborations. Maintained and updated Alabama IPM website (www.alabamaipm.com). IPM in Agronomic Crops: Offered 110 educational meetings that provided IPM information on Agronomic Crops to a total of 4,509 stakeholders. These meetings included 11 Cotton and Soybean Crop Scouting Schools (with 2 held jointly with Florida Extension), 5 Pesticide Dealer meetings, 3 Certified Crop Advisor Training Programs, 51 county crop production/pest management meetings, 10 crop production/pest management field days, and 30 auxin herbicide training programs intended to minimize off target movement, promote resistance management, and enhance product stewardship. Collaboration with Tuskegee: The project provided professional development to participating farmers (including beginning farmers), students, and professional agricultural workers including County Extension agents, crop production specialists, and other agricultural professionals. These participants gained knowledge and practical skills in the management of insect pests and diseases of cowpeas and other popular vegetables grown in Alabama. During this reporting period, the Tuskegee University IPM team was invited to carry out pest management training for members of an association of Alabama veterans, some of who are beginning farmers and others interested in becoming farmers. A total of 130 veterans participated in this pest management training workshop. Workshops covered pest management issues that were brought up by the participants. IPM in Specialty Crops: Training sessions included 39 short presentations at regional events (1,181 participants), 36 detailed hands-on IPM workshops (1,477 participants), 19 on-farm IPM demonstration plots, 17 IPM field days and on-farm demonstrations (323 participants), and 9 in-service training events for Extension Agents, Specialists and Extension Coordinators. IPM Support for Pest Diagnostics: A total of 7,659 diagnoses/identifications were provided to clients statewide, including IPM recommendations for control or prevention of plant pests on a case-by-case basis. 43 workshops and 3 field tours were conducted to educate growers, homeowners, extension personnel, and regulatory officials (first responders) on invasive species (2,159 participants). 26 pest alerts were provided to first responders. IPM in Housing: 14 educational workshops and 9 onsite trainings were conducted to train the general public, pest management professionals, Extension agents, and housing administrations/maintenance staff. IPM in Schools: Most of the efforts on training were aimed at Pest Management Professionals (PMPs) and Extension Agents that consult with stakeholders. Presented several talks on school IPM. Worked with eXtension Fire Ant Community of Practice to develop and market 'All Bugs Good and Bad' webinars. Organized pest audit training session for Pest Management University at Auburn Arena; and training for Public Health Certification (Mosquitoes).

Dissemination Streams
IPM Coordination: The Alabama IPM website provided timely information to the public, researchers, and Extension agents for use in IPM trainings. A new section, "News from the IPM Coordinator's Desk", was added to the Alabama IPM Communicator newsletter which is sent to approximately 2,500 subscribers. IPM in Agronomic Crops: The results have been disseminated via weekly in-season IPM pest alerts and/ Timely Information bulletins at alabamacrops.com and other IPM websites, Alabama IPM Communicator newsletter, IPM handbooks, blogs, 1-800 Pest Control Alert, webinars, phone-calls, grower direct e-mails, and farm visits. Collaboration with Tuskegee:Information disseminated via handouts, PowerPoint presentations, emails, workshops, conference calls, and peer-reviewed publications. IPM in Specialty Crops: IPM Communicator Newsletter is a major vehicle for information dissemination during the busy production season. The newsletter has seen an increase of 78% in subscription since 2014. Currently 2,500 subscribers in the electronic database receive 15 to 18 emails and pest alerts from the researchers. Producers give very high ratings to the quality of alerts with immediate use of IPM recommendations. Past issues are archived at www.aces.edu/ipmcommunicator (new website launched in 2014). Published 9 Extension articles that include the Alternative Vegetable IPM Slide Chart (11,000+ copies in circulation) and the High Tunnel Vegetable Production Handbook for New Beginning Farmers (2,140 copies published). Also published 24 farm magazines and newspaper articles, 23 podcasts and statewide news releases, and 25 educational videos and IPM training modules (www.aces.edu/vegetableipm). Social media channels (Facebook and Twitter) provide access to 1,445+ subscribers that receive regular pest alerts and other updates. IPM Support for Plant Diagnostics: Diagnoses/identifications with specific IPM recommendations were provided on a case-by-case basis through face-to-face or electronic communications. Pest alerts were provided through electronic communications, newsletters, fact sheets, workshops, and peer-reviewed publications. IPM in Housing: Thirteen (13) pest presses, over 40 timely information/pest alerts, and 15 research updates were sent out to the Housing Authority offices, in-house managers, and PMPs using multiple tools and channels, including ACES social media (Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin), webinar and other electronic communications, newsletters, fact sheets, and workshops. Specific IPM recommendations were provided on a case-by-case basis through face-to-face or electronic communications. Two IPM posters for bedbug and seasonal invaders were displayed at participating housing authorities. Participated in information exchange network with stoppests.org, ipmcenters.org, nchh.org, healthyhousingsolutions.com and eXtension to expedite result dissemination. IPM in Schools: Pest presses sent to mailing list monthly. IPM information forwarded to school and PMP email lists as received from other sources. Three bed bug videos posted to eXtenion.org YouTube page. Timely information posted on eXtension.org, Urban IPM Facebook page and Twitter feed. Timely information sent to Pest Press mailing list (webinars, new information, etc.).

Next Reporting Steps
Nothing Reported

Outputs

Target Audience
Target audiences include row crop farmers, fruit and vegetable growers, organic/low input growers, schools, housing authorities, and the entire public.

Changes / Problems
Nothing Reported

Training & Professional Development
IPM Coordination: Coordinated extension IPM efforts. Developed/revised IPM priorities. Managed IPM Advisory and Impact Evaluation committees. Facilitated IPM collaborations. Maintained and updated the Alabama IPM website (www.alabamaipm.com). IPM in Agronomic Crops: Soybean, corn, grain sorghum, and cotton IPM trainings were presented to 38 certified crop advisors (CCA's) in December 2015. A survey of the CCA's showed that 87% found the IPM info presented to be very helpful. Three row crop pest management/scout schools (61 total contacts) were conducted in June 2015. Two on-farm stored- grain workshops were conducted. Thirty-three IPM meetings/field days reaching 1,327 people were conducted. Provided IPM recommendation trainings for regional extension agents in cotton, corn, soybeans, peanuts, small grains, and stored grains. Collaboration with Tuskegee: During this reporting period our IPM team was invited to carry out IPM training of member of an association of Alabama veterans (30 total participants), some of whom are beginning farmers, and others interested in becoming farmers. The initial training covered introductory concepts of IPM, but three other training sessions are planned for this summer to cover issues pertaining to the management of cowpea curculio, which is one of the problems that was brought up for discussion at the training workshop. A number of workshops were organized this reporting season to discuss and demonstrate management methods for a number of cowpea pests including the cowpea curculio. A number of professional agricultural workers including Extension agents, crop production specialists, farmers, and students attended these training workshops/sessions. In addition to the professional development provided, participants also gained knowledge and practical skills in the management of insect pests of cowpeas. IPM in Specialty Crops: Provided training for at least 826 participants (1,487 hours of IPM training via regional meetings, workshops, and field days). Organized 14 IPM demonstration plots and 4 in-service training events for Extension Agents and Coordinators. Launched a new Vegetable IPM website with high traffic and interlinked with the IPM newsletter. Two impact videos were made available on this new website. IPM Support for Pest Diagnostics: A total of 2,812 diagnoses/identifications were provided to clients statewide, including IPM recommendations for control or prevention of plant pests on a case-by-case basis. Eighteen workshops (total of 1,354 participants) were conducted to educate growers, homeowners, extension personnel, and regulatory officials on invasive species. Eight pest alerts were provided to first responders. IPM in Housing: Four training meetings were held at the Alabama Green Industry Training Center and one workshops was held at professional pest management companies. Thirty-five participants were involved with IPM outreach activities. IPM in Schools: Worked with eXtension Fire Ant Community of Practice to develop and market 'All Bugs Good and Bad' Webinars. Pest Audit training session for Pest Management University at Auburn Arena. Invasive Species presentation for Winter Pest Control Association meeting. Ant Management and presentation on where to find accurate information scheduled for Pest Control Association Summer Meeting. Training for Public Health Certification planned for June.

Next Reporting Steps
IPM Coordination: Continue to monitor and facilitate the progress of IPM implementation in Alabama. Meet with the Alabama IPM Advisory Committee to set priorities for the future. Continue to disseminate information regarding IPM in Alabama via the Alabama IPM website and the "News from the IPM Coordinators Desk" newsletter. IPM in Agronomic Crops: Assess impact of biological control agents (P. saccharalis and B. bassiana). Collect kudzu bug eggs and adults from July 1 through August 31, 2016 at 4 locations and monitor mortality caused by these two key control agents. Assess impact of insecticide and fungicide applications on these 2 biocontrol agents and on subsequent lepidopterous pests of soybeans. Determine the relative abundance and species composition of thrips populations infesting cotton during the first 4 weeks after plant emergence in north and central Alabama to aid in determining optimum management strategies. Monitor cotton research plots for evidence of resistance of thrips to insecticide seed treatments. Conduct research to improve scouting and IPM management methods for soil insect pests on peanuts. Collaboration with Tuskegee: Continue to train farmers on preventive methods such us rotating away from infested areas, methods of monitoring fields to aid in early detection of pests, and correct use of pesticides to manage the pest. Alabama Vegetable IPM project continues to focus on cowpea curculio (insecticide resistance) and has released preliminary findings from 2015 study via blog and YouTube video that have reached to all large farmers. This curculio project is being expanded by Alabama Extension to include new chemistries and soil treatments. IPM in Specialty Crops: Develop 2 more IPM training modules with 3 videos. Five new magazine/newspaper articles will be created. Five new blog posts will be created. Develop additional relevant Extension bulletins and electronic curriculum to complement hands-on training. IPM Support for Plant Diagnostics: Continue to provide timely diagnosis of plant disease, nematode, and insect pest problems along with IPM recommendations. IPM in Housing: Continue to provide trainings to pest management professionals, in-house staff, and residents in housing IPM. Provide IPM recommendations through publications and electronic media. Continue cooperation with Alabama Housing Authority Association and Alabama Green Industry Training Center to proactively engage more members into this program. IPM in Schools: New training modules for school staff that were created through an EPA grant by Dawn Gouge at University of Arizona are currently being posted to eXtension.org by AU. Working with SIPM Center to create phone app for School IPM Pest Guide. Working with Janet Hurley with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to create iPest Manager, a site compiling IPM information for schools. Visit schools in Alabama to maintain IPM programs currently in progress.

Impacts (unparsed)

What was accomplished under these goals? Funds from this grant supported IPM Coordination and five key emphasis areas: agronomic crops IPM, specialty crops IPM, housing IPM, school IPM, and IPM support for pest diagnostics. IPM Coordination: Activities resulted in increased implementation of IPM practices by growers and improved focus on IPM impact evaluation. A new section "News from the IPM Coordinator's Desk" was added to the Alabama lIPM Communicator newsletter, which provided information to stakeholders about general IPM practices and hot topics. The Alabama IPM website was updated to provide the most up-to-date information about IPM in the state/nation with several unique links to evaluations and the IPM newsletter. IPM in Agronomic Crops: Fifty-five different grower/industry-sponsored IPM research/demonstration projects were conducted. Surveys indicated a 67% adoption rate of insect pest IPM recommendations for peanut producers with 22% of farmers reading the IPM Communicator newsletter. Monitoring for thrips damage in cotton planted at different locations and dates yielded data for a predictive thrips damage model. Widespread thiamethoxam and imidacloprid resistance by tobacco thrips was documented. Insecticide efficacy data for tarnished plant bugs in cotton was obtained. A statewide pheromone trap monitoring effort for cotton bollworm and tobacco budworm was conducted in order to provide better time management efforts in row crops. Insecticides were evaluated in grain sorghum for efficacy in controlling sugar cane aphid. Field studies revealed insecticides significantly reduced kudzu bug parasitic wasp egg-laying. The Beauveria bassiana fungus was found to have a major impact on kudzu bug populations. Studies were conducted to assess the effect of planting date and neonicotinoid seed treatments on 3-cornered alfalfa hopper infestations in soybean. Four soybean looper management studies showed reduced defoliation following sprays of bifenthrin or diflubenzuron. Tentative results of cage studies may suggest that the soybean vein necrosis virus could cause yield loss in soybeans when thrips/virus pressure is very high. Soybean fungicides were screened for efficacy. Frogeye leaf spot isolates that are resistant to the strobilurin class of fungicide have now been found in 10 of 67 Alabama counties.Soybean sentinel plots were planted statewide, monitored for disease, and farmers were regularly updated about the location of Asian soybean rust infestations via the alabamacrops.com website. Collaboration with Tuskegee: IPM workshops were held to train farmers on prevention, early detection, and management of insect pests of cowpea with emphasis on the cowpea curculio. None of our participating farmers had issues with cowpea curculio in this reporting period. This is due to the use of recommended management practices including crop and land rotation. Participating farmers did a better job of controlling insects that vector virus diseases. There were a couple of incidents of rust disease but generally there were no disease problems during the reporting period. IPM in Specialty Crops: Applied research and demonstrations were conducted on IPM of select vegetable and fruit crops. A 90% IPM adoption rate was documented for producers seeking reactive consultation from Extension Agents and specialists. Producers attending training events reported at least a 50% IPM adoption rate. IPM impact videos containing grower testimonials were made available at: the IPM Evaluation Toolkit website (http://www.aces.edu/anr/ipm/EvalToolkit/). IPM Support for Plant Diagnostic Facilities: Provided timely diagnosis of plant disease, nematode, and insect pest problems for 2,812 routine samples. Provided IPM recommendations to control and/or prevent future pest problems for over 3,000 people to facilitate timely decision making. Four first reports were identified in Alabama through samples submitted to the Plant Diagnostic Lab (PDL). A federally regulated pest was identified in two new counties in AL, which allowed for rapid remediation. Maintained/received NPPLAP certification for molecular testing of 3 high-risk pests for monitoring in AL. IPM in Housing: Demonstrated housing IPM at the two pilot multi-family buildings at Sylacauga and Talladega Housing Authorities. Conducted four IPM workshops on termites, bedbugs, ants and roaches for PMPs, consultants, and Housing officers at Alabama green Industry Training Center (AGITC). Conducted one training-workshop for 35 Alabama Housing Authority administrators and maintenance staffs at Columbia Housing. A specified train-the-trainers workshop was held for ACES extension agents of the Home-ground Team in collaboration with a professional company (Cook's Pest Management Corp.) Provided timely consultations on emerging pest issues and technology updates to statewide customers. Published 20 extension articles using social media, news media and traditional means. Present talks at 2 stakeholders' meetings. The pilot multi-family buildings have achieved 100% adoption of IPM practices. About 99% of the audients are in the process of adopting or intend to implement IPM tactics next year. 100% of the approximately 410 audients were satisfied with the information and materials we provided. IPM in Schools: Set up new IPM program with new PMP in Sylacauga School System. Met with Rudy Pacumbaba to set up meeting to work with school gardens in Huntsville School System in 2016-2017. Began development of phone application version of Pest Identification Guide working with Texas AgriLife Extension, the University of Florida, Bugwood, and the Southern IPM Center. Gathered data for School IPM Cost Calculator (Texas AgriLife Extension). Entered current and past IPM school audits into School IPM Cost Calculator (Texas AgriLife Extension) to obtain IPM scores for schools. Pest presses sent out for 8 months. Working with University of Arizona to get IPM training modules for school IPM online and running at eXtension.org. Working with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to get iPest Manager app up and running. Held School IPM network meeting at National ESA meeting in November to discuss future of eXtension Urban IPM Site. Conference calls with eXtension CoP, Southern School IPM Working Group and National School IPM Steering Committee. Posted Bed Bug Videos to eXtension site. Publications

Outputs

Target Audience
Target audiences include row crop farmers, fruit and vegetable growers, organic/low input growers, schools, housing authorities, and the entire public.

Changes / Problems
Nothing Reported

Training & Professional Development
IPM Coordination: Coordinated extension IPM efforts. Developed/revised IPM priorities. Managed IPM Advisory and Impact Evaluation committees. Facilitated IPM collaborations. Maintained and updated the Alabama IPM website (www.alabamaipm.com). A talk was given by Rao Balusu to producers and researchers at the Small Farm IPM Workshop in Mississippi, where approximately 200 people learned about the small farm IPM program in Alabama. IPM in Agronomic Crops: Soybean, corn, grain sorghum, and cotton IPM trainings were presented to 35 certified crop advisors in December 2014. Three row crop pest management/scout schools (66 total contacts) were conducted in June 2015. Two on-farm stored-grain workshops were conducted. Thirty-two IPM meetings/field days reaching 991 people were conducted. One weed management field day was conducted which highlighted upcoming technologies. Provided IPM recommendation trainings for regional extension agents in cotton, corn, soybeans, peanuts, small grains, and stored grains. Collaboration with Tuskegee: IPM trainings on management of insect pests of cowpeas for farmers, county Extension agents, and other agricultural professionals were conducted. IPM in Specialty Crops: Provided training for at least 826 participants (1,487 hours of IPM training via regional meetings, workshops, and field days). Organized 14 IPM demonstration plots and 4 in-service training events for Extension Agents and Coordinators. Launched a new Vegetable IPM website with high traffic and interlinked with the IPM newsletter. Two impact videos were made available on this new website. IPM Support for Pest Diagnostics: A total of 2,974 diagnoses/identifications were provided to clients statewide, including IPM recommendations for control or prevention of plant pests on a case-by-case basis. Sixteen workshops and 1 field tour (total of 960 participants) were conducted to educate growers, homeowners, extension personnel, and regulatory officials on invasive species. Ten pest alerts were provided to first responders. IPM in Housing: Two training meetings were held at the Alabama Green Industry Training Center, 4 workshops were held at professional pest management companies, 3 trainings were conducted for housing administrators and maintenance staff, and 3 workshops were held for the general public. Nine pest management professionals and 11 government agents participated in onsite IPM demonstrations. Thirty participants were involved with IPM outreach activities. Six outreach opportunities involved graduate students and county Extension agents. IPM in Schools: A teacher and pest management professional training was held at Sylacauga City Schools in August 2014. A termite and ant IPM class was held which trained approximately 150 people on school and housing IPM. A bed bug and roach IPM class for pesticide certification was held which trained approximately 100 people.

Next Reporting Steps
IPM Coordination: Continue to monitor and facilitate the progress of IPM implementation in Alabama. Meet with the Alabama IPM Advisory Committee to set priorities for the future. Continue to disseminate information regarding IPM in Alabama via the Alabama IPM website and the "News from the IPM Coordinators Desk" newsletter. IPM in Agronomic Crops: Assess impact of biological control agents (P. saccharalis and B. bassiana). Collect kudzu bug eggs and adults from July 1 through August 31, 2016 at 4 locations and monitor mortality caused by these two key control agents. Assess impact of insecticide and fungicide applications on these 2 biocontrol agents and on subsequent lepidopterous pests of soybeans. Determine the relative abundance and species composition of thrips populations infesting cotton during the first 4 weeks after plant emergence in north and central Alabama to aid in determining optimum management strategies. Monitor cotton research plots for evidence of resistance of thrips to insecticide seed treatments. Conduct research to improve scouting and IPM management methods for soil insect pests on peanuts. Collaboration with Tuskegee: A field trial of candidate pesticides against the cowpea curculio is planned. IPM in Specialty Crops: Develop 2 more IPM training modules with 3 videos. Five new magazine/newspaper articles will be created. Five new blog posts will be created. Develop additional relevant Extension bulletins and electronic curriculum to complement hands-on training. IPM Support for Plant Diagnostics: Continue to provide timely diagnosis of plant disease, nematode, and insect pest problems along with IPM recommendations. IPM in Housing: Continue to provide trainings to pest management professionals, in-house staff, and residents in housing IPM. Provide IPM recommendations through publications and electronic media. Continue cooperation with Alabama Housing Authority Association and Alabama Green Industry Training Center to proactively engage more members into this program. IPM in Schools: New training modules for school staff (created by Dawn Gouge at University of Arizona) are being posted to eXtension.org. A phone app "School IPM Pest Guide" will be created in conjunction with the Southern Region IPM Center. Continue to visit schools in Alabama to maintain IPM programs and try to gain access to new schools to implement IPM programs.

Impacts (unparsed)

What was accomplished under these goals? Funds from this grant supported IPM Coordination and five key emphasis areas: agronomic crops IPM, specialty crops IPM, housing IPM, school IPM, and IPM support for pest diagnostics. IPM Coordination: Activities resulted in increased implementation of IPM practices by growers and improved focus on IPM impact evaluation. A newsletter was created and added to the IPM Communicator newsletter, which provided information to producers and researchers about general IPM practices. The Alabama IPM website was updated to provide the most up-to-date information about IPM in the state/nation. IPM in Agronomic Crops: Over 70 different grower/industry-sponsored IPM research/demonstration projects were conducted. Surveys completed by 90 participants at one crop production meeting indicated that 94% of attendants felt the program provided useful information about IPM that would save an average of $5,500 with adoption of an IPM program. Surveys indicated a 75% adoption rate of insect pest IPM recommendations for peanut producers. Monitoring for thrips damage in cotton planted at different locations and dates yielded data for a predictive thrips damage model. Thrips were collected and screened for resistance to commonly used insecticides. A statewide pheromone trap monitoring effort for cotton bollworm, budworm, and old world bollworm were conducted in order to better time management efforts. Grain sorghum aphid occurrence and spread was monitored. In soybeans, kudzu bug populations were monitored statewide. Four kudzu bug management studies were conducted and helped refine control recommendations. Impacts of natural enemies on kudzu bug populations were assessed. Three three-cornered alfalfa hopper management studies were conducted in soybeans to help determine management strategies. Two soybean looper management studies were conducted and helped refine control recommendations. Soybean fungicides were screened for efficacy. Collaboration with Tuskegee: IPM workshops were held to train farmers on prevention, early detection, and management of insect pests of cowpea. Farmer implementation of IPM practices has greatly reduced the incidence of cowpea curculio. The incidence of insect transmitted virus diseases has been reduced because participating farmers do a better job of controlling insect vectors via IPM. IPM in Specialty Crops: Applied research and demonstrations were conducted on IPM of select vegetable and fruit crops.A 90% IPM adoption rate was documented for producers seeking reactive consultation from Extension Agents and specialists. Producers attending training events reported at least a 50% IPM adoption rate. IPM impact videos containing grower testimonials were made available at: www.aces.edu/vegetableipm. IPM Support for Plant Diagnostic Facilities: Provided timely diagnosis of plant disease, nematode, and insect pest problems for 2,974 routine samples. Provided IPM recommendations to control and/or prevent future pest problems for approximately 3,000 people to facilitate timely decision making. Eight first reports were identified in Alabama through samples submitted to the Plant Diagnostic Lab (PDL), including 2 regulated pests which allowed for rapid remediation. Maintained/received NPPLAP certification for molecular testing of 3 high-risk pests for monitoring in Alabama. IPM in Housing: Increased knowledge and applied IPM skills of pest management professionals, housing administrators, and housing maintenance staff. At one training event, all trainees identified the key in-house pests correctly, a greater than 80% increase compared with the pre-training survey. Approximately 360 people were trained in housing IPM via workshops. Possibly thousands of people were directed about housing IPM via phone calls and various ACES publications. Facility-wide housing IPM demonstrations were conducted impacting 762 housing units and approximately 3,100 residents. About 93% of housing residences evaluated the IPM program as "very satisfied" and 7% as "satisfied." These activities increased the depth of knowledge in IPM and strengthened the confidence and commitment in practicing IPM of the participating clients. IPM in Schools: Worked with Huntsville City Schools and conducted 3 school audits. With each audit, advice was given on how to improve the IPM program in the school. Entered 5 school IPM audits into the School IPM Cost Calculator in conjunction with Texas AgriLife Extension to obtain IPM scores for those schools. Twelve pest presses were sent out to the school IPM listserv members, pest management professionals, and school personnel. An IPM training module for school IPM was created and put on www.eXtension.org in conjunction with University of Arizona. iPest Manager app for mobile devices was created in conjunction with Texas AgriLife Extension for use at the National Pesticide Information Center at Oregon State University. A school IPM network meeting was held at the National Entomological Society of America conference and priorities were set. Participated in 6 conference calls with School IPM CoP, 6 Southern School IPM Working Group conference calls, and 12 National School IPM Steering Committee conference calls. Publications

Publications Inventory

Other

Dyer, D., K. S. Lawrence, S. Till, D. Dodge, W. Groover, N. Xiang, and M. Hall. 2017. A potential new biological nematicide for reniform management in north Alabama, 2016. Report No. 11:N012. DOI: 10.1094/PDMR11. The American Phytopathological Society, St. Paul, MN. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/pub/trial/PDMR/reports/2017/N012.pdf [Published 2017]
Groover, W., K. S. Lawrence, N. Xiang, S. Till, D. Dodge, D. Dyer, and M. Hall. 2017. Cotton variety selection with and without Velum Total for reniform management in north Alabama, 2016. Report No. 11:N015. DOI: 10.1094/PDMR11. The American Phytopathological Society, St. Paul, MN. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/pub/trial/PDMR/reports/2017/N015.pdf [Published 2017]
Hu, X.P. and G. Greer. 2015. Scorpion Management in Residential Homes. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University. ANR-2259. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2259/ANR-2259.pdf. [Published 2015]
Kelly, N., Miles, J., Conner, K., Sikora, E., and Majumdar, A. 2016. Citrus Pest Identification and Management Guide. ANR-2270. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2270/ANR-2270.pdf. [Published 2016]
Majumdar, A. 2014. Alternative Vegetable IPM Recommendations Slide Chart. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University. ANR-2190. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2190/ANR-2190.pdf. [Published 2014]
Majumdar, A., A. Randle, R. R. Balusu, H. Y. Fadamiro, and A. Chambliss. 2014. Alternative Vegetable IPM Recommendation Slide Chart. Alabama cooperative extension system, ANR-2190 (https://store.aces.edu/itemdetail.aspx?ProductID=18412#prettyPhoto) [Published 2014]
Majumdar, A., B. O'Rear, B. Boozer, C. Akotsen-Mensah, D. Chapman, E. Sikora, G. Gray, J. Miles, J. Kemble, K. Conner, M. Reeves, N. Kelly, and W. East. 2014. High Tunnel Crop Production Handbook. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University. ANR-2157. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2157/ANR-2157.pdf. [Published 2014]
Majumdar, A., B. O'Rear, B. Boozer, C. Akotsen-Mensah, D. Chapman, E. Sikora, G. Gray, J. Miles, J. Kemble, K. Conner, M. Reeves, N. Kelly, and W. East. 2014. High Tunnel Crop Production Handbook. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University. ANR-2157. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2157/ANR-2157.pdf. [Published 2015]
Majumdar, A., R. R. Balusu, H. Y. Fadamiro. 2014. Crucifer Insect Pest Scouting Guide. Alabama cooperative extension system. [Published 2014]
Quarcoo, F. Postharvest pest Management- A few Facts. Cooperative Extension Program, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL. [Awaiting Publication 2017]
Quarcoo, F., Bonsi, C.K., and Tackie, N. 2014. Pesticides, the Environment, and Human Health. In: Marcelo L. Larramendy and Sonia Soloneski (Eds.): Pesticides Toxic Aspects. InTech. http://www.intechopen.com/books/pesticides-toxic-aspects/pesticides-the-environment-and-human-health [Published 2014]
Sikora, E., Conner, K., Bloodworth, M., Kemble, J., and Majumdar, A. 2017. Disease Management in High Tunnel Systems. ANR-2393. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2393/ANR-2393.pdf. [Published 2017]
Sikora, E., Delaney, D., and Conner, K. 2017. Frogeye Leaf Spot of Soybeans. ANR-2400. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2400/ANR-2400.pdf [Published 2017]

Conference Papers and Presentations

Hagan, A. K., K. L. Bowen, K. Burch, and H. B. Miller. 2017. Target spot-incited defoliation and yields of selected cotton varieties over a three year period in Southwest Alabama. 2017 Beltwide Cotton Conference Proceedings:233-241. http://www.cotton.org/beltwide/proceedings/2005-2017/index.htm [Published 2017]
Hagan, A. K., M. Pegues, J. Jones, S. Scott, and K. Burch. 2017. Impact of planting date and seeding rate on the severity of target spot in cotton. 2017 Beltwide Cotton Conference:224-232. http://www.cotton.org/beltwide/proceedings/2005-2017/index.htm [Published 2017]
Hall, M., K. S. Lawrence, D. Dodge, D. R. Dyer, W. Groover, S. R. Till and N. Xiang. 2017. Varietal and Nematicidal Responses of Cotton in Nematode-Infested Soils. Proceedings of the 2017 Beltwide Cotton Conference Vol. 1: 211-215. National Cotton Council of America, Memphis, TN. http://cotton.org/beltwide/proceedings/2010-2017/index.htm [Published 2017]
Li, S. The effect of nozzle type and spray timing on postemergence weed control efficacy. Pp 422. Proceeding of 2016 Southern weed science society/Weed science society of America. San Juan PR http://wssaabstracts.com/public/38/proceedings.html [Published 2016]

Journal Articles

Akotsen-Mensah, C., and H.Y. Fadamiro. 2015. Behavioral response of Plum Curculio, Conotrachelus nenuphar, to synthetic fruit volatile lures and the male-produced aggregation pheromone. Psyche DOI: 10.1155/2015/350675. [Published 2015]
Akotsen-Mensah. C., R. R. Balusu, J. Anikwe and H. Y. Fadamiro. 2017. Evaluating potential trap crops for managing leaffooted (Hemiptera: Coreidae) and phytophagous stink Bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) species in peaches. Agricultural and Forest Entomology, DOI: 10.1111/afe.12213. [Published 2017]
Allen, T., Bluhm, B., Conner, K., Doyle, V., Price, T., Sikora, E., Spurlock, T., Tomaso-Peterson, M. and Wilkerson, T. 2017. First Description of the Causal Agent of Taproot Decline of Soybean, an Emerging Disease in the Southern United States. Plant Health Progress 18:35-40. [Published 2017]
Balusu, R. R., K. R. Palmer, T. Cofer, J. A. Pitts, D. L. Horton, and H.Y. Fadamiro. 2017. Evaluation of insecticides for control of San Jose scale in Alabama peaches. Arthropod management tests, DOI: 10.1093/amt/tsx027 [Published 2017]
Balusu, R. R., M. R. Elena, A. Majumdar, R. D. Cave, E. L. Oscar, and H. Y. Fadamiro. 2017. Biology, ecology, and management of yellowmargined leaf beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in organic crucifer production. Journal of Integrated Pest Management. 8(1): 14; 110. doi: 10.1093/jipm/pmx007 [Published 2017]
Balusu, R. R., M. R. Elena, E. L. Oscar, and H. Y. Fadamiro. 2015. Management of yellowmargined leaf beetle Microtheca ochroloma (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) using turnip as trap crop. Journal of Economic Entomology. 108: 2691-2701. [Published 2015]
Balusu, R.R, M. R. Elena, E. L. Oscar, and H.Y. Fadamiro. 2015. Management of Yellowmargined leaf beetle Microtheca ochroloma (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) using turnip as trap crop. J. Econ. Entomol. 108: 2691-2701. [Published 2015]
Conner, K. N., Olive, J., Hagan, A. K., Zhang, L., and Bloodworth, M. E. 2014. First report of Impatiens downy mildew caused by Plasmopara obducens in Alabama. Plant Disease 98:1006. [Published 2014]
Hagan, A. K., K. Burch, M. Pegues, and J. Jones. 2017. Variety, seeding rate, and fungicide program impact on target spot defoliation, boll damage, and cotton yield, 2016. Plant Disease Management Reports 11: FC017. https://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/pub/trial/PDMR/reports/2017/FC017.pdf [Published 2017]
Herbert, A., Chappell, T., Huseth, A., Kennedy, G., Reisig, D., Greene, J., Reay-Jones, F., Roberts, P., Toews, M., Jacobson, A., Smith, R., Reed, T. 2016. Managing thrips in cotton: Research in the Southeast region. Virgina Cooperative Extension ENTO-182 NP [Published 2016]
Morawo, T. and H.Y. Fadamiro. 2014. Attraction of two larval parasitoids with varying degree of host specificity to single components and a binary mixture of host-related plant volatiles. Chemoecology 24: 127-135. [Published 2014]
Quarcoo, F., Tackie, D.N., Bonsi, C.K., Wall, G., and Hunter, G. Economies of Scale in Integrated Pest Management in Vegetable and Fruit Production. Professional Agricultural Workers Journal. [Awaiting Publication 2017]
Quarcoo, F., and Bonsi, C. 2014. Overview of the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Terrain and Activities in Furtherance of the Walmart Initiative to Purchase Fresh Vegetables from Local Growers in Alabama. Professional Agricultural Workers Journal 1(2), 8. [Published 2014]
Reisig, D., Greene, J., Herbert, A., Roberts, P., Reed, T. Smith, R., Toews, M. 2017. Insecticides for managing thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Southeast U.S. cotton: Impacts on populations, seedling injury, plant growth and yield. Journal of Economic Entomology [Submitted 2017]
Wall, G., Hill, W. A., Hargrove, T. M., Vaughan, B., Quarcoo, F., & Robinson, M. D. 2017. The Challenges of Developing a Successful Cooperative through an Integrated Resource Approach: Small Farmer-Tuskegee University-Walmart Project. Professional Agricultural Workers Journal, 4(2), 4. [Published 2017]
Zebelo, S., J. Piorkowski, J. Disi, and H.Y. Fadamiro. 2014. Secretions from the ventral eversible gland of Spodoptera exigua caterpillars activate defense related genes and induce emission of volatile organic compounds in tomato, Solanum lycopersicum. BMC Plant Biology 14:140. [Published 2014]

Book Chapters

Quarcoo, F., C. Bonsi, and N. Tackie. 2014. Pesticides, the Environment, and Human Health. In: Marcelo L. Larramendy and Sonia Soloneski (Eds.): PesticidesToxic Aspects. InTech. Available at: http://www.intechopen.com/books/pesticides-toxic-aspects/pesticides-the-environment-and-human-health. [Published 2014]