Integrated Pest Management

The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program has been a part of the Northeast Research and Extension Center since 1979. First begun as a three year project, the IPM program has continued to receive federal funding (Smith-Lever 3d) on an annual basis to the present time. Federal funding is supplemented through industry grants.

The goal of integrated pest management is to maximize the farmers' economic return while minimizing adverse effects to the environment by utilizing a combination of management techniques to maintain pests at sub-economic levels.

Currently the program is managed by Keith Jarvi, who has been with the program from the beginning. His position title is Integrated Pest Management Extension Assistant. This position is 100% Extension, and classified as managerial- professional .  He is affiliated with the Department of Entomology and Environmental Programs. His duties include:

1. Providing classroom and in-the-field training in pest identification and field scouting techniques to farmers and agribusiness personnel.

2. Conducting field research and demonstrations on various pest problems in northeast Nebraska.

3. Developing educational materials (NebGuides, field scout manuals, videotapes, computer programs, specimen collections) for use in training sessions.

4. Dispersing timely information to growers and agribusinesses through the use of newsletters, radio, television, and news releases.

5. Assisting farmer organizations and other agribusiness organizations in developing IPM programs for crops and livestock.

6. Providing general entomological information to homeowners and other clientele as needed.

The foundation of this extension-oriented program is the Northeast Nebraska Integrated Management - Crop Production Newsletter, which has been produced annually during the growing season since 1981. This newsletter is written and edited by Jarvi and includes regular contributions from most of the crop production staff. The newsletter concentrates on advising farmers and agribusiness personnel about current crop conditions and attempts to give them advance notice on potential problems. Surveys have documented a benefit to subscribers of over $2,000,000 since the newsletter began. Research concentrates on insecticide rates and control techniques for corn rootworms (Diabrotica spp.), seed attacking insects, and alfalfa insect pests.