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Frass is Output...
During my tenure at Purdue University I have been able to work on a lot of different studies and projects (resume). My responsibilities as Senior Insect Diagnostician and my role in Extension pest management have expanded my horizons far beyond my formal training in fruit tree and field crop entomology. I have written many extension publications, newsletters, and popular articles on a wide variety of pests and pest situations. Through a combination of my four-year stint in politics (school board member and vice- president) and my expertise in insect pest management, I have recently become involved in a program designed to reduce the amount of pesticides applied to public schools and at the same time improving pest control. Integrated Pest Management In Schools (IPMIS) is really catching hold, not just in Indiana, but also throughout the country. I have been involved from the beginning and see the vision of where this program can go. A natural tie into insect diagnostics, and Integrated Pest Management is taking the process one step further and actually consulting with a group or individual relative to insect pest control. Problem solving is one of the more fulfilling aspects of my career. I have consulted on a wide variety of problems, sometimes to solve pest infestations, sometimes in an effort to prevent pest invasions, and sometimes with lawyers in an effort to determine fault. I have worked with termites, pesticide applications, powderpost beetles, mites, ants, ground beetles, Japanese beetles, cockroaches, brown recluse spiders and even forensic entomology on occasion. These experiences are always challenging but are very rewarding (after-the-fact). In addition they have provided many very interesting stories over the years. home |
