Enhancing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Education for Horticulture and Small Farm Educators in Idaho
Teaching & Educational Technologies
Jemila Chellappa
Area Extension Educator - Cropping Systems
University of Idaho
Caldwell
Abstract
Statement of issue: Horticulture and small farm programming in Idaho face challenges in pest management, including limited resources and varying expertise in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Effective pest management is essential for sustainability, plant protection, and environmental health. Extension educators need practical skills in pest identification, scouting, and monitoring to better serve their communities. Methodology: To address these challenges, the University of Idaho Extension organized a focus group of horticulture and small farm educators. A four-hour hands-on IPM workshop was conducted to equip the participants in scouting, pest identification, and management recommendations and introduced to the Pacific Northwest (PNW) Pest Alert Network and other innovative technologies for pest monitoring. Scouting kits, including essential tools, were provided to support field monitoring. Impact: The workshop engaged 26 participants, with 91% reporting increased confidence in implementing IPM practices and 100% expressing interest in future training. A post-workshop survey showed that 40% of respondents were aware of the PNW Pest Alert Network, while 60% expressed strong interest in contributing content. The initiative fostered collaboration among educators and promoted a proactive approach to pest management. The adoption of scouting kits empowered participants to conduct effective field monitoring. Extension as an effective education tool: Extension strengthens pest management education through science-based training, collaboration, and hands-on learning, enhancing sustainable pest control with technology and networking. Future training sessions will focus on increasing participation in the PNW Pest Alert Network and refining pest alert protocols during critical growing seasons. Applicability to other regions: This model of IPM education can be adopted in other regions facing similar pest management challenges. The integration of hands-on training, digital pest alert systems, and scouting kits provides an effective framework for empowering educators and agricultural professionals nationwide. Conclusion: Equipping educators to assist growers, landowners, and communities in managing and mitigating pest threats is essential for enhancing pest management. This approach reduces chemical inputs and waste while ensuring stakeholders remain informed through a strong technical foundation. By strengthening knowledge networks and communication channels, Extension plays a crucial role in fostering sustainable and effective pest management strategies, benefiting agricultural sustainability and environmental health.
Authors: Jemila Chellappa, Armando Falcon-Brindis
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Jemila Chellappa Area Extension Educator, University of Idaho, Idaho, 83605
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Armando Falcon-Brindis Assistant Professor, Research Faculty & Extension Specialist — Entomology, University of Idaho, Idaho, 83660