This six-day webinar series looks at the characteristics of invasive insects, the impacts and costs they have regionally and nationwide, and highlights the biology, ecology, and identification of some of the most destructive insects. This includes (but is not limited to) the Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer, Lymantria dispar (formerly gypsy moth), hemlock woolly adelgid, winter moth, and more. State and federal regulations pertaining to invasive insect management will be discussed, as well as invasive forest and agricultural insects in Massachusetts along with warnings about potential newcomers. Management of invasive insects as a part of landscapes will be presented along with strategies to prevent human assisted movement of these organisms. Integrated Pest Management will be the focus, highlighting cultural and mechanical management options along with the use of biological control.
Participants may receive a certificate in INVASIVE INSECT MANAGEMENT upon the successful completion of all six webinars and earning a passing score on associated online quizzes following each class. Participants not interested in a certificate may also attend all six webinars, or individually, without taking the associated quizzes. Attendees are encouraged to take all six sessions in one season to get the most out of the information.
Download printable agenda for the complete 2021 Invasive Insect Certification Program.
AGENDA
Invasive Forest and Agricultural Insects in Massachusetts, continued (DAY 4)
9:00 A M Introductions and explanations of quizzes, certificates, and pesticide and association credits
9:15 AM It’s Time to Prepare: Recognizing the Spotted Lanternfly
Brian Walsh, Extension Educator, Ornamentals, Penn State Extension
Recognizing the life stages of the spotted lanternfly (eggs, nymphs, adults), life cycle, and hosts. The view from PA, what we might expect, and how PA is dealing with this invasive insect. Management and research updates, time permitting.
10:15 AM Break
10:30 AM Not an Insect, But Invasive Earthworms: What's the Latest with Jumping Worms?
Olga Kostromytska, Extension Assistant Professor and Turf Entomologist, UMass Stockbridge School of Agriculture
Technically earthworms are not insects, but they have garnered a lot of interest from the public in recent years. Presentation to discuss the identification and biology of invasive earthworms in MA. This will include information about "crazy/jumping worm" species (Amynthas) that have many homeowners in MA and New England concerned. Dr. Kostromytska will also share updates about current research.
11:30 AM Closing remarks, credit explanations, quiz reminders/instructions for the quiz assessments for those attending all 6-days of the training and seeking a certificate of completion, and instructions for pesticide CEU’s and association credits.
Pesticide & Professional Credits
Pesticide credits: 2 pesticide contact hour for categories 29, 35, 36, 48 and Applicators License available.
Association credits: 2 ISA, 2 SAF, 1 MCLP, 1 MCA, and 1 MCH credits.
Pre-registration is required.