Michigan State University Extension will host the first Integrated Pest Management Academy at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center on campus in East Lansing. The academy will serve as a foundation for newcomers to pest management but can be a valuable review for IPM veterans as well.

MSU Extension hosts IPM Academy Feb. 20-21

Michigan State University (MSU) Extension will host the first Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Academy at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center on the MSU campus in East Lansing, Mich. The academy will serve as a foundation for newcomers to pest management but can be a valuable review for IPM veterans as well.


Growers, nurserymen, gardeners or landscapers looking to brush up their IPM skills or bring new farm workers up to speed will benefit from this educational program.


Barry Jacobsen of Montana State University will deliver the keynote speech on the philosophy and history of IPM.


First-day topics will prepare participants to adopt the latest IPM practices through introductory discussions on entomology, scouting, plant pathology and more.


On the second day of the program, participants will have the opportunity to opt into two concurrent sessions that address pest and disease issues and identify IPM resources in the following cropping systems:


•Blueberries


•Field crops: corn and soybeans


•Grapes


•Hops


•Pome fruit


•Small grains and forages: wheat, alfalfa and mixed hay


•Stone fruit


•Strawberries and raspberries


•Vegetables: cucurbits, cole crops, onions, celery and carrots


•Vegetables: peas, beans, sweet corn, asparagus, tomatoes and peppers


•Woody ornamentals: conifers and Christmas trees


•Woody ornamentals: deciduous trees and shrubs


The academy takes place Feb. 20 and 21. Registration is $225, when you register before Feb. 13. Preregistration is required and space is limited. The cost includes a notebook with handouts, breakfast, lunch, parking and Wi-Fi connection both days.


Certified crop advisor credits (9) and pesticide recertification credits (16) will be available. Certified Green Industry Professional continuing education credits (7) will also be available.


Visit the IPM Academy website at www.ipm.msu.edu/ipm-academy.htm to access the registration page, learn more about the program and download the agenda. To find out more information or to register by mail, contact Erin Lizotte at taylo548@msu.edu or call 231-944-6504.